Drawing Inspiration from Peculiar Things: a poem by New Roots Alumna Herself

“Life isn’t linear…

Neither is creativity.”

Introduction by Sheridan Gates:

Often I am told by artists, “I never feel like I’m doing enough” or “this friend of mine is doing this and that and I have nothing to show for myself!” I’ve even said those things to myself at one point in my life. Who hasn’t!? The people saying these thoughts to themselves are living in a state of constant comparison and survival. It will be EXTREMELY difficult to go write a song, practice your instrument, create something visual or even allow yourself to take a break, if you are looking externally for all the answers.

I truly believe that if we try to fit a pre-existing mold or “template” for our creativity and artistry, then it’s impossible to build a sustainable, profitable career in the music industry.

But the GOOD NEWS is, that if you take a moment to look at what truly brings YOU JOY throughout all aspects of your life and focus on those things, you will start to discover new paths to take and new possibilities to build a healthy and long creative career for yourself.

Offering yourself the time and attention to the things/places/people that bring you joy, will free your mind and let the creative juices start to flow.

Now…

I want to introduce you to one of our New Roots alumna, Nina Kindrachuk, who is a phenomenal singer, songwriter, poet, and friend. She is finding her path of creativity through writing in all different forms and I want to share with you this piece that she wrote about discovering her creativity. I hope you will read this and feel inspired to open your eyes, take note of what’s inside of you and realize all the beautiful things you are capable of doing.