Creativity comes in so many forms, involving a process that includes motivation, preparation, gathering of ‘supplies’ and most importantly the holding of vision for all of these elements. A heartfelt and mindful intent can set us in motion and provide a directive, yet don’t we often have the human experience of a surprise find, an off-shoot trail that leads to that unexpected treasure and perhaps even that golden gnostic nugget that only a meandering journey can provide?

Emerging into a new season, we look forward to cooler months and time for reflecting on where our recent paths have led, what personal and communal foraging efforts have unearthed on our way through more change and hopefully onto greater strength, health and resilience. Has the summer allowed for restoration, taking time for fun, changing up the pace to catch our breaths? New schedules are on the horizon as schools commence and more unknowns arise. Life so often gives us what we need, not necessarily what we want; perhaps the key to reconciling this is coming to understand how our motivations connect with and influence the greater good, the grace in our navigation.

The creative arts can provide that support as a universal and timeless context of expansion, transcending and also simultaneously helping to integrate the complexities of our world. Contributors this month share professional examples and personal insights into how and where music, writing, movement and various other outlets are the bridge to freedom of heart and mind. Art informs, art accompanies, art enlivens and art heals our common and delicate humanity in a wisely colorful, practical and illuminating way. 

We love that our cover this month showcases nature’s bounty, a summer harvest of an artist and friend collected in rural Maine this past month. Her simple masterpiece is beautifully arranged for our viewing pleasure and invites a mental exploration into what all the fantastic fungi can teach us. The remarkable mushroom is illuminated further in April Thompson’s editorial piece, highlighting culinary delights and the unique and exquisite dining experiences that local forests can provide. We are delighted to share with you the simple wisdom inherent in the mushroom’s ability to heal and nourish.

Some of you might be familiar with the 2019 documentary by Louie Schwartzberg which is a fun cinematic venture into the expansive and extraordinary realm of the mushroom and all that the entire mycosphere has to offer. Fantastic Fungi, the Mushroom Movie, is a work of art in itself, experientially educating viewers on just how many facets of our world the fungi and mycelium contribute to, from therapeutic and medicinal qualities to restoring and connecting ecosystems.

This film is just one of many creative endeavors that offers a sensory trip of enlightenment by opening us to possibilities and connections that are just underfoot. The inherently therapeutic elements of our natural world are always within reach. We have the gift of being able to connect our inner and outer worlds in any moment, by being present to what is being offered, to tune in and to partake… and also to contribute.

Wishing you all the joy and expansion of the creative process,  

Jacqueline and Kendra