So, have you found your tribe? And in particular, your “art tribe”? If you are an artist or creative person, you’ll no doubt enjoy spending time with other creative people, learning, painting, comparing ideas, and just sharing a similar interest.

There are all sorts of creative people out there – those who are happy to paint when they have time whilst pursuing other hobbies and jobs; those who are striving to forge a career in the art world; those who love the social side of art workshops and exhibitions; and those who are not sure where they are headed in their art journey. Nevertheless most of us have a need to “belong” or have a connection with one or more people who are on the same wavelength as us.

In my art journey I’ve often wondered which art tribe I belong to. I have spent time with art groups, and at art exhibitions, and going to art workshops. Lately I have also spent a lot of time painting outdoors with en plein air painters around Perth and on art tours. Each of these activities have given me a sense of belonging.

I do believe too, that one’s tribe can change depending on needs and circumstances. While exploring different mediums, it might be useful to belong to an art group that includes members who work in acrylics, watercolours, oils, pastels and so on, so you can get an all-round idea of what you like best. But once you’ve found your preferred medium, it might be necessary to join a group that focuses on that medium (and this will help improve your own work). If you’ve always been an indoor painter but want to explore outdoor painting more, it might be a good idea to find other outdoor painters or painting groups to paint with.  And if you are hoping to build a career out of your art, it might be time to take the next step and further your studies, or seek out art professionals who can help you on your journey.

One thing I do know, though, is that there will be a few in your art tribe who will be with you forever. They are those who inspire you, encourage you, laugh with you, believe in you, and share your successes and your failures. They are the people who are your real art tribe. You’ll know who they are. And it’s probable that they are not even family. Hold onto them tight, and be there for them in their art journey too!

Have your found your art tribe? I’d love to know.

Oh, and here’s an interesting little article on finding your tribe, and it applies to life in general – How to Find Your Tribe