Although much of my hands-on creative work is solitary, I could not acheive what I do without a whole collective of people, organisations and businesses. And, to acknowledge these people and their businesses shouldn’t be seen as a weakness, or wanting to give them free advertising, but more of an opportunity to say thanks for the work and effort they put into thier own small businesses to supply me with what I need to run mine.  From paper to feathers, to wool, silk, dyes or recycled materials, there are people out in the world who save me alot of work sourcing, cleaning, carding, sorting and packaging these items so they are stored properly and safely until I use them. So thanks to all you out there who supply me with what I need to be my creative self.

Creative collaborations leads to co-creation and is totally people based.  People and face to face interactions, where a normal conversation stimulates ideas, offers new contacts, or might even lead up to a co-created piece of work. The extra hands in the kitchen or workroom are invaluable. A powerful source of energy and creative outpouring can bring the most satisfying collaborative results.

I love working with other people, as well as having them work alongside me.  It may not always be working on the same project, but it does involve working in the same space where we can chat, giggle like children and create with reckless abandon! I’ve even been known to flick a bit of soapy water around when I’m felting, or chuck a peice of foam when the room gets far too quiet! And then there’s the bubbles!  Oh yes – the bubbles.  Bubble wands and soapy water are always on hand to have a play.  There is something quite satisfying when a burst of irridescent coloured spheres burst forth and begin floating with the breeze.  The laughter as they float and land lightly on heads, noses or are chased and popped by Maddie the golden retriever is a reminder of how simple the highlights of every day can be.

Co-creative collaborations are all about everyone sharing. It breathes a new life into expecting and getting different results purely due to doing the same tasks using different methods. Creative collaborations cannot be done alone, it takes another one or two people who also enjoy working in the same space and place, and who offer willingly their ideas, thoughts and feedback to the outcome.

Taking it a step further, I’m of the mind that we should aim to rename board meetings, committee meetings and other high profile get togethers as collaborations. In the true sense of the word, it might mean more positive outcomes for all. Imagine if politicians had to collaborate instead of debate? But let’s not go on that tangent!

Here’s to all the beautiful people to work together for the good of other people, here’s to the co-creators of the world who recognise that you and I, do not all have to be alone in our own space. Here’s to friends and colleagues, family and strangers who beleive that Creative collaborations are the way of the future.