Empowering Creativity: The Vision of Co-Create

Introduction

Nestled within the innovative framework of the Project IN Art and Health Brand, Co-Create emerges as a transformative project dedicated to addressing artists' struggles and fostering creative unity. Born in Barcelona, this initiative initially sought to unite artists in person, creating a vibrant community where they could empower one another. Though financial challenges halted its physical gatherings, Co-Create has since evolved into a dynamic online creative space. Today, it stands as a beacon for individuals worldwide, aiming to unblock the path to creativity and imagination through psychological tools and timeless wisdom.

The Origins and Evolution of Co-Create

Draw & Flow was a weekly event under Co-Create meetings in Barcelona

Co-Create began with a clear mission: to bring artists together. At the Project IN center in Barcelona, early meetings buzzed with energy as creatives shared their experiences and aspirations. However, limited financial resources forced a pause in these in-person events. Rather than fade away, Co-Create adapted, transitioning into an online platform that now reaches far beyond its original borders. This shift has broadened its scope, making it a sanctuary for anyone seeking to harness their creative potential, regardless of location.

Unlocking Creativity with Flow Psychology

At the heart of Co-Create lies an understanding of Flow Psychology, a concept that ties happiness to the frequency of entering a "flow state." Coined by psychologist Mihaly

Csikszentmihalyi, flow occurs when an individual’s skill level aligns perfectly with the challenge at hand, resulting in deep immersion and satisfaction. Csikszentmihalyi explains, "The best moments in our lives are not the passive, receptive, relaxing times... The best moments usually occur if a person’s body or mind is stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish something difficult and worthwhile" (Csikszentmihalyi, 1990). While sports can often structure this balance, the unpredictable nature of art and creativity poses unique difficulties. Artists may lack the structured support that athletes receive from sports psychologists, often turning to peers or friends for advice—a risky move akin to "going to a barber for taking out a bad tooth." Co-Create seeks to bridge this gap, offering tailored resources and psychological insights to nurture creativity, imagination, and artistic empowerment.

The Link Between Creative Blocks and Trauma

A significant focus of Co-Create is the profound connection between creative blocks and trauma. Through therapeutic observations, I identified the terms "creative trauma" or "music trauma"—a stifling of creative expression often rooted in childhood experiences. This trauma frequently stems from authority figures, such as teachers, whose excessive criticism or emphasis on grades and competition erodes a child’s creative confidence. As Sir Ken Robinson, an advocate for educational reform, noted, "We are educating people out of their creative capacities" (Robinson, 2006). This issue transcends borders, reflecting a global educational tendency to prioritize assessment over empowerment. Co-Create counters this by providing a nurturing environment where individuals can heal from these wounds and rediscover their creative voice.

Empowering Co-Creators of Reality

Beyond unblocking creativity, Co-Create embraces a deeper philosophy: empowering people as co-creators of their own lives. Drawing from ancient knowledge, this approach encourages a mindset where individuals actively shape their reality through intention and imagination. "Life is a canvas, and you are the artist; every stroke of imagination paints the world you live in," reflects this empowering idea (adapted from Emerson, 1841). For creators, adopting this perspective is liberating, breaking the chains of limitation and infusing their work—and lives—with purpose and possibility.

Creativity as a Source of Life

Co-Create redefines creativity, elevating it from a mere artistic tool to a fundamental source of life. It is the essence of living fully, enabling us to dream boldly, solve problems innovatively, and enrich every facet of our existence with powerful imagination. Psychologist Rollo May emphasized this vitality, stating, "Creativity is the process of bringing something new into being. It requires passion and commitment" (May, 1975). Through this lens, Co-Create inspires individuals to see creativity as a life force, essential for personal growth and fulfillment.

A Multifaceted Mission

Co-Create’s mission unfolds across multiple dimensions, offering a rich array of resources and initiatives:

- Information Sharing: Articles, blog posts, and research will educate and inspire a global audience.

- Artist Interviews: Conversations with creatives will be shared on YouTube and social media, providing relatable insights.

- Podcasts: Audio content will explore creativity, trauma, addiction, and flow psychology.

- Community Support: A safe harbor will welcome artists in times of panic or necessity.

- Research: Ongoing studies will investigate the interplay between trauma, addiction, creativity, imagination, and flow psychology.

Get Involved with Co-Create

Co-Create is a movement that thrives on participation. Whether you’re an artist seeking support, a creative enthusiast, or simply someone who values imagination, there’s a place for you. Stay connected by subscribing to the Co Create YouTube channel, becoming a member on http://www.projectin.org, or engaging with the community. Your involvement fuels this journey of empowerment and discovery. Seeking support and guidance to spark your creativity? Reach out to Co-Create!

Conclusion

Co-Create is more than a project—it’s a celebration of human potential. By weaving together psychological tools, ancient wisdom, and a passion for creativity, it offers a holistic path to empowerment. In a world that often stifles imagination, Co-Create stands as a reminder that creativity is not just an act but a way of being—a source of healing, joy, and transformation.

References

- Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). *Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience*. Harper & Row.

- May, R. (1975). *The Courage to Create*. W.W. Norton & Company.

- Robinson, K. (2006). "Do schools kill creativity?" [TED Talk]. Retrieved from [https://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity]

- Emerson, R. W. (1841). Self-Reliance. Essays: First Series.