THE SPARK


Gonzo, Fozzie, and Kermit illustrate how artists can face rejection with resilience and humor.
By Becky Murdoch June 11, 2025
In this edition of The Spark, writer and theater director Steven W. Alloway draws wisdom from the Muppets to explore how artists can navigate negative feedback. Through insightful parallels with characters like Gonzo, Fozzie, Miss Piggy, and Kermit, Alloway shares honest reflections and expert perspective on resilience, creative leadership, and the value of community. A must-read for any creative seeking encouragement amid critique.
By Becky Murdoch June 4, 2025
Check out our June mixtape, ALL ABOUT THAT BASS to SPARK your creativity!
Dennis Ricci shares writing insights, inspirations, and creative challenges in SPARK interview.
By Becky Murdoch June 3, 2025
In this SPARK interview, acclaimed novelist Dennis Ricci shares his creative journey, from overcoming limiting beliefs to writing thrillers that blend entertainment with deep moral questions. With influences ranging from Aaron Sorkin to Robert Dugoni, Ricci offers honest insights on developing as a writer, the power of storytelling, and how faith and truth shape his work. Aspiring creatives will find encouragement, practical advice, and a candid look at the writer’s life.
Artist community gathering to play, create, and reconnect with creative joy
By Becky Murdoch May 27, 2025
Rediscover your love for creating with The Creative Spirals Method, an inspiring approach rooted in play, experimentation, and community. Hosted by a trusted artist and educator, this article explores how Epiphany Space fosters creative connection through its summer residency and events. Whether you're a visual artist, musician, or creative explorer, find encouragement, expert guidance, and joyful collaboration. #CreativePlay #ArtistResidency
Illustration of a person overwhelmed by a flood of creative project ideas
By Becky Murdoch May 13, 2025
Struggling with too many creative ideas and not enough time? In The Avalanche of Ideas, Steven W. Alloway shares practical strategies for organizing your creative thoughts, prioritizing projects, and staying focused. Drawing from real-life experience in immersive theater production, this article offers actionable advice on categorizing ideas, collaborating with peers, and knowing when to let ideas rest. Perfect for artists, writers, and creatives seeking balance and productivity.
Carissa Taylor shares her creative journey, healing through poetry, and future creative plans
By Becky Murdoch May 6, 2025
In this inspiring SPARK interview, writer and poet Carissa Taylor shares her creative evolution—from interning at Epiphany Space to self-publishing a poetry book born from chronic illness and trauma. Carissa offers a vulnerable look at how personal hardship shaped her voice, why she believes in honest storytelling, and what she's working on next—including a new fantasy novel and plans for a YouTube channel. A must-read for creatives seeking hope, resilience, and authentic connection through art.
From stormy skies to golden rays, Rain Shine is a moody-bright mix of songs that celebrate the rain,
By Becky Murdoch May 6, 2025
From stormy skies to golden rays, Rain Shine is a moody-bright mix of songs that celebrate the rain, the sun, and everything in between.
Beth Stavros reflects on burnout, recovery, and redefining work through creative rest.
By Becky Murdoch April 30, 2025
In this thoughtful essay, working artist Beth Stavros shares a candid look at how overwork nearly sabotaged her creativity—and how redefining rest as part of the artistic process transformed both her mindset and output. Drawing from her experience in circus training and years of hustle culture, she offers an honest and relatable call to value rest not as a break from work, but as an essential part of it.
Artist resting with coffee, sketchbook, and sunshine to nurture creativity
By Becky Murdoch April 15, 2025
Feeling overwhelmed as a working artist? Cortney Matz shares five free and practical ways to nurture your creativity and recover from burnout. With empathy, experience, and insight, this guide supports emotional and artistic healing—no fancy gear required, just a little time, play, and community.
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