The Creative Process

A Poet and Didn’t Know It

Nov 3, 2021

I was once thought that the brain was static, unable to grow or change. But extensive research and in-depth study of epigenetics has shown that the brain is remarkably adaptable and able to create new neural pathways in response to stimuli in the environment. This is the field of neuroscience called neuroplasticity.

No matter where we fall on the spectrum of left-brained to right-brained dominance, it is God’s desire and will for us all to love Him with “ALL our mind.” In Christ, we are limitless in imagination and unfettered by man-made definitions of how our brains are wired. Think of it: Maybe we can do things we once thought impossible.

Humility that Harms

Mar 13, 2021

I wonder how many of us will go about our lives being artists unknown by the world. What glory is yet to be yielded to the Lord? What song, painting, or poem has yet to be revealed to a world desperate for beauty? What I had to realize about my inner struggle between humility and transparency was that I would never fulfill my calling if I waited on my flesh to catch up with my desire to serve.

Starting a Songwriting Group

Jan 26, 2021

Have you ever wondered what it takes to start a songwriting group? Maybe you’re longing for a local group to collaborate with even now. What do we do once we begin? Where will we find people to work with? We collected nuggets of wisdom from leaders of songwriting groups across the United States. They sent in their tips and also shared mistakes. Here are their words of what has worked for them in their context. Thank you to everyone who contributed their advice!

The Art of Critique

Jan 19, 2021

Stacey Regan and Elise Massa have been leading the Ascension Songwriters Collaborative at Church of the Ascension in Pittsburgh, PA. Elise Massa is the Northeast Regional Leader with United Adoration. We asked Stacey to send us tips for running a songwriting group and creating a positive environment for collaboration and creativity. Next week we will share her tips on how to run a songwriting group!

Be Quick to Listen

Dec 17, 2020

Kate Bluett is a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom who writes while her kids are otherwise occupied. She attended UA Retreats in Dallas, Texas in 2018 and 2019 and has been an active participant in the UA Online Creative Sessions. These retreats and sessions have led to...

The Power of Creativity

Nov 22, 2020

Creativity is one of the most effective ways to deal with stress and refresh our connection with God. And as we share what we’ve created, others have the opportunity to enter into the oasis generated by creative expression.

The Dangers of Comparison and the Healing Work of Prayer

Sep 21, 2020

Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from...

Songwriting From a Solid Foundation

Mar 25, 2019

Sometimes we can have our identities to wrapped up in what we create, and can easily feel rejected by another’s opinions. Here are three things that have helped me tremendously on my journey as a songwriter. I only wish I had learned them sooner!