THE SPARK


Stacked building blocks symbolizing the process of overcoming creative blocks
By Becky Murdoch July 8, 2025
Discover why artist dates matter for your creative health. Learn practical strategies to overcome blocks, release perfectionism, and find ideas everywhere. Written by an experienced creative professional, this article offers insight, encouragement, and actionable advice grounded in real-life examples.
Uplifting playlist for sunny days and feel-good, serendipitous moments.
By Becky Murdoch July 1, 2025
Discover a curated playlist that captures the feeling of sunshine, unexpected joy, and perfect timing. Whether you're driving with the windows down or riding the wave of a lucky break, this soundtrack is designed to amplify the best days. Created with care to lift your mood and celebrate life's bright moments.
Zach Hammill discusses filmmaking, inspiration, and creative challenges
By Becky Murdoch July 1, 2025
Filmmaker and editor Zach Hammill shares his creative journey from LA to Minneapolis, his inspirations (including the Coen Brothers and PTA), and the balance of artistic ambition with everyday life. A thoughtful interview offering insights into storytelling, resilience, and what it means to create from a deeply persona
Person brainstorming ideas at a desk, breaking through creative block
By Becky Murdoch June 25, 2025
Struggling with creative block? Writer and creator Steven W. Alloway shares honest, real-world solutions for breaking through the blank-page blues. Drawing from over a decade of professional writing experience, Alloway offers tested methods like talking it out, working out of order, and crowd-sourcing inspiration to he
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.
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