Our theme for August is RITUAL.

It was chosen by our Charlottesville chapter in Virginia and illustrated by Matt Smithson.

Rituals add meaning and a deeper sense of connection to our lives. They allow us to practice mindfulness and reflection. Unlike our daily routine and habits, rituals have the power to inspire us. 

Brushing your teeth is routine. Going for a morning walk would be a good habit. And writing a gratitude journal could become your morning ritual. The key is to act with intentionality. 

Our CreativeMornings events have their own rituals. Getting a cup of coffee creates an opportunity to say hello to someone new while you wait your turn in line. Reading our manifesto out loud reinforces our beliefs that everyone is creative and everyone is welcome. 

What rituals do you practice in your relationships, your spirituality, and your creative work? How do they heighten your sense of purpose and belonging in this world?

Nuestra temática de agosto es el RITUAL. Fue elegida por nuestro capítulo de Charlottesville en Virginia e ilustrada por Matt Smithson.

Los rituales añaden significado y un sentido más profundo de conexión a nuestras vidas. Nos permiten practicar la atención plena y la reflexión. A diferencia de nuestra rutina y hábitos diarios, los rituales tienen el poder de inspirarnos. 

Cepillarse los dientes es una rutina. Salir a caminar por la mañana sería un buen hábito, y escribir un diario de gratitud podría convertirse en un ritual matutino. La clave está en actuar con intencionalidad. 

Nuestros eventos CreativeMornings tienen sus propios rituales. Ir a por una taza de café te brinda la oportunidad de saludar a alguien nuevo mientras esperas tu turno en la cola. Leer nuestro manifiesto en voz alta refuerza nuestra creencia de que todo el mundo es creativo y todo el mundo es bienvenido. 

¿Qué rituales practicas en tus relaciones, tu espiritualidad y tu trabajo creativo? ¿Cómo refuerzan tu sentido de propósito y pertenencia a este mundo?“

QUICK FIRE QUERIES :: EVA STRUBLE

Our series of random questions that dig a little deeper into the minds of the people holding the mic…

What’s your current book or podcast obsession?
I’m enjoying Sam Anderson’s “Animal” podcast, which you can hear once a week on the Daily. The episode on puffins is especially good. It’s actually about pufflings, which are baby puffins. I think that word is enough of a sales pitch. 

What phrase do you find yourself repeating all too often?
“I hear your request.” (I have a 7 year old son)

Favorite taco shop?
Mike’s Taco Club on Newport in Ocean Beach. I lived in OB for 7 years with my partner Scott , and we still go there pretty often. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Its a tie:
1. For women: Negotiate your salary! And ask for raises. 
2. If you feel nervous about something, try to convince yourself you’re excited instead.

Who or what inspires you?
Being outside. 

Favorite coffee shop in San Diego?
I like to go to yoga at Sojourn in Golden Hill, and Dark Horse brews a great fruity medium roast next door. 

What’s a secret talent of yours?
I cook a lot of crepes. At least once or twice a week.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Pat Benatar, “We Belong.” 

What’s your favorite thing about the San Diego community?
While we aren’t known as an “art city,” the art and design community here is pretty tight, and seems quite committed to being here despite the high cost of space to work. I think this community also pushes for exchange with TJ through shared exhibits, design weeks, institutional exchanges, studio visits, and shared university courses, which is great. I hope that connection continues to get stronger. 

Our theme for July is TRUST.

Trust is the invisible thread that weaves the fabric of our relationships and society together. But, in turbulent times, doubt can unravel our strengths. 

So, go with your gut. Put your trust in a higher power, in our institutions, and in karma. Believe that people will do the right thing. Trust the process. And that your creativity is a well that will never run dry. 

When we trust each other, we feel safe to share ideas, give feedback, and take risks. It requires vulnerability and a willingness to be open to the possibility of disappointment or betrayal. So, trust is not purely belief or faith. It is an active choice. 

Trust is a gift. It must be given before it can be earned.

Nuestra temática de julio es CONFIANZA. Fue elegida por nuestro capítulo de Islamabad e ilustrada por Ibrahim Nasir.

La confianza es el hilo invisible que une el tejido de nuestras relaciones y nuestra sociedad. Sin embargo, en tiempos turbulentos, la duda puede desbaratar nuestras fuerzas.

Así que, haz caso a tu instinto. Confía en un poder superior, en nuestras intuiciones y en el karma. Confía en que la gente hará lo correcto, en el proceso y en que tu creatividad es un recurso que nunca se agotará. 

Cuando confiamos los unos en los otros, nos sentimos seguros para compartir ideas, dar opiniones y asumir riesgos. Requiere vulnerabilidad y la voluntad de estar abierto a la posibilidad de decepción o traición. Por tanto, la confianza no es pura creencia o fe, es una elección activa. 

La confianza es como un regalo: hay que darla antes de ganarla.

QUICK FIRE QUERIES :: MAX PETE

What’s your current book or podcast obsession? Tbh not the biggest podcast listener, but I have been reading a lot of fiction lately, especially around crime and mystery. I’m currently reading ‘Never Lie’ by Freida McFadden

What phrase do you find yourself repeating all too often?  “Breathe, it’s all going to work out.” Sometimes when I catch myself overthinking, this helps bring me back. 

Favorite taco shop? Lola 55 and Tacos El Gordo are my go-tos!

 
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? “A closed mouth never gets fed.” If you want something, you have to ask for it and make it happen.

Who or what inspires you? My wife, Celeste. Always proud of her and she constantly inspires me!

Favorite coffee shop in San Diego?  I’ve been going to Good Omen a lot lately, really love that spot. Otherwise, James or Westbean always hit.

What’s a secret talent of yours? I’m really good and reading maps and obsses with directions! 

What’s your go-to karaoke song? Boys 2 Men 'End of the Road’

 
What’s your favorite thing about the San Diego community? The people. Everyone here has been so welcoming since day one. I really appreciate how kind people are here and how everyone lets you be who you are. One of the most welcoming communities!

Our theme for June is PATTERN.

It was chosen by our Chennai chapter and illustrated by Nishant Saldanha.

Recognizing, forming, and breaking patterns are core components of creativity. Visuals, sounds, movements, and the passage of time all form patterns that shape our existence and our work. 

Our Chennai chapter’s selection of this theme was inspired by the art form kōlam; which features patterns of dots that are encircled or connected by straight and curved lines. These intricate, geometric designs are created on the thresholds and floors of houses, temples and businesses using rice flour. The practice is deeply rooted in South Indian culture to welcome guests into the home and bring good fortune and prosperity.

Traditionally created by women, our Chennai chapter shared that these beautiful designs are often created by family members and neighbors as a communal activity. Connections between people form patterns in our lives too. 

Which patterns in your relationships, work, and habits are worth repeating? Which ones should be changed? What new pattern do you want to create?

Nuestra temática de junio es PATRONES. Fue elegida por nuestro capítulo de Chennai e ilustrada por Nishant Saldanha.

El reconocimiento, la formación y la ruptura de patrones son componentes esenciales de la creatividad. Las imágenes, los sonidos, los movimientos y el paso del tiempo forman patrones que conforman nuestra existencia y nuestro trabajo. 

La selección de este tema por parte de nuestro capítulo de Chennai se inspiró en la forma de arte kōlam; estos patrones de puntos están rodeados o conectados por líneas rectas y curvas. Estos intrincados diseños geométricos se crean en los umbrales y suelos de casas, templos y negocios utilizando harina de arroz. Esta práctica está profundamente arraigada en la cultura del sur de la India con el fin de dar la bienvenida a los invitados al hogar y atraer la buena fortuna y la prosperidad.

Nuestro capítulo de Chennai, creado tradicionalmente por mujeres, compartió que estos hermosos diseños suelen ser creados por miembros de la familia y vecinos como una actividad comunitaria. Las conexiones entre las personas también forman patrones en nuestras vidas. 

¿Cuáles son los patrones de tus relaciones, tu trabajo y tus hábitos que crees que vale la pena repetir? ¿Cuáles deberían cambiarse? ¿Qué patrón nuevo quieres crear?

QUICK FIRE QUERIES :: Jeffrey Alonzo Karahamuheto

Our series of random questions that dig a little deeper into the minds of the people holding the mic…

What’s your current book or podcast obsession? Karma- A Yogi’s Guide to Crafting Your Destiny by Sadhguru. This text has had the most profound impact on my life by far. I grew up in a home where meditation, mindfulness, and wellness were explicitly practiced, however, it’s easy to forget the places from which we come. I found that while reading this for the first time, I was connecting with an old friend. Hearing stories of Sadhguru’s life and his frameworks is truly liberating. I typically read or listen to it once a year while reading/ listening to other books.

What phrase do you find yourself repeating all too often? Give yourself the grace you give to others. It’s very easy for us to be critical of ourselves. Taking a step back and loving ourselves the same way we love others can go far.  

Favorite taco shop? As Daygo natives… tacos are def one of our soul foods. 

Shrimp tacos - Orignal Mariscos German Taco truck on federal. This is the spot! The tacos + Shrimp cocktails are the best. 
Birria Tacos - Ed Fernandez. Put respect on their name. They have this plate with the “dry” Birria that you put into the sauce. Get a coffee while you’re there and always come back for more.
Carne Tacos - Lola 55. Presentation and salvation. This is what art tastes like. 

Fusion Tacos- BINCHO TACO! They are a new Japanese-style taco pop-up, but I’m truly in love with em. I’ll share more about my special order sometime soon…
 
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? By far it’s “Maybe”,  a story of a farmer that has a series of “good” and “bad” things that happen. The moral of the story is that we shouldn’t look at isolated moments of our lives and judge them, clinging to things like “what if”, “I wish this had,” etc. It’s helped me accept aspects of life while still seeking to positively influence it.  To quote Alan Watts, “You never know what will be the consequence of the misfortune; or, you never know what will be the consequences of good fortune.” 

Who or what inspires you? Everything…. But truly life and death. I try to live a life that’s rooted in the present yet cognizant that it will end. Life is just a continuous NOW.

Favorite coffee shop in San Diego? Look. Ya boy spends wayyyy too much money on coffee.. Sooo…. Saigon Coffee(NP), Mnemonic Coffee (Bankers Hill), Mixed Grounds (Grant hill), and Friends of Friends (National City).  

What’s a secret talent of yours? I can binge-read manga and I love to freestyle rap.

What’s your go-to karaoke song? Sex and Candy - Marcy Playground 

What’s your favorite thing about the San Diego community? Our vibes. Whether it’s walks on the beach, bike rides through the park, or beers in a backyard with the grill blazing. We def know how to kick back, relax, and connect. However, with the cost of housing and life rising, so our laid-back nature is changing. Folks are trying to financially survive here by overworking and that limits our time for human connection and connection with self. We have to do major systems change (policy,  infrastructure, transportation, wage increases, access, etc. ) so that folks can live here with a high quality of life.

Our theme for May is VIBRANT.

When was the last time you experienced something that made you feel more alive? 

Heard a melody pulsing with a beat that made your body move. Taken in the view of a lush landscape or sparkling city skyline bursting with light and shadows. Locked eyes with a striking stranger. Poured yourself into prose that crackles off the page with electricity. Lost track of time in a conversation punctuated by spirited laughter. Stopped in your tracks in front of a canvas in a museum or a mural on the street with colors so bold and bright it popped from the paint straight into your synapses. 

It might not happen every day. But you can live a life full of energy and enthusiasm. You can strive to bring brightness into every interaction. 

Because our world is full of all kinds of vibrant masterpieces. And you are one of them.

Nuestra temática de mayo es VIBRANTE. 

Fue elegida por nuestro capítulo de San Antonio e ilustrada por Isabel Ann Castro. 

¿Cuándo fue la última vez que experimentaste algo que te hizo sentir más vivo? 

Escuchar una melodía con un ritmo que te hace mover el cuerpo. Contemplar un paisaje exuberante o el resplandeciente horizonte de una ciudad repleto de luces y sombras. Mirar fijamente a un extraño que te llame la atención. Sumergirte en una prosa que vibra en la página con electricidad. Perder la noción del tiempo en una conversación entre risas contagiosas. Detenerte ante un lienzo en un museo o un mural en la calle con colores tan vivos y brillantes que saltan de la pintura directamente a la memoria. 

Es posible no te suceda todos los días, pero puedes vivir una vida llena de energía y entusiasmo. 

Puedes esforzarte por aportar resplandor a cada interacción, porque nuestro mundo está lleno de todo tipo de obras maestras vibrantes, y tú eres una de ellas.

QUICK FIRE QUERIES :: David “Persue” Ross

Our series of random questions that dig a little deeper into the minds of the people holding the mic…

What’s your current book or podcast obsession? At the moment I’d say it is the series of books I’ve written for the BunnyKitty universe. I am embarrassed to say I do not read that much. My wife reads to me while I paint or i’ll watch and listen to movies.

What phrase do you find yourself repeating all too often? My duty is my beauty.

Favorite taco shop? Las Cuatro Milpas for the chicken tacos and Puesto’s for the fancy stuff.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Sharpen your teeth. That advice was given to me by a friend who noticed that I was being too relaxed with my business dealings. For many years I just went with the flow and gave more of myself to people than I needed to. I still give a lot but I’ve learned to draw the line.

Who or what inspires you? The people I collaborate with are the ones that inspire me and keep me on my toes. I have to mention traveling, cultures and an excellent meal.

Favorite coffee shop in San Diego? Thats easy, Jaunt in Miramar

What’s a secret talent of yours? I am a pretty talented cook and melodic bass player.

What’s your go-to karaoke song? Any Smiths song.

What’s your favorite thing about the San Diego community? This is really tough for me to answer having been born and raised in San Diego. I see a lot of division between communities. I am not a negative person by nature but have dealt with those divides because I’ve been invited into so many communities. I think it comes down to people just being proud of being San Diegan. We won’t stand down to anyone who wants to cast judgment on us. That comes from L.A. casting a large shadow and also my point of view coming up in the scene that I did. I think we notice when people come to visit or live from different parts of the world they fall in love with our city. I am proud of that. We offer people a piece of heaven on earth.

It was chosen by our Tucson chapter and illustrated by Sophie McTear.

Oh yeah, that’s hot! 

When you’re cooking, spices add flavor, depth, and complexity to an otherwise plain culinary dish. Spicy foods interact with receptors in our mouth and can trigger sensations of heat and even pain. Can you handle it? Being open to trying new and bold tastes is a good lesson for bringing daring and originality into all of our creative endeavors. As they say, “variety is the spice of life.” 

Spicy can also be exciting and suggestive. A spicy comment or joke is provocative or controversial. Such “spicy takes” often challenge conventional beliefs and ignite strong, passionate reactions from people. 

So, how can you make your work and approach to life spicier?  Let’s bring the heat!

Nuestra temática de abril es PICANTE. Fue elegida por nuestro capítulo de Tucson e ilustrada por Sophie McTear.

¡Qué picante!

Cuando cocinas, las especias añaden sabor, intensidad y complejidad a un plato que, de otro modo, sería sencillo. Los alimentos picantes interactúan con los receptores de la boca y pueden provocar sensaciones de calor e incluso dolor. ¿Crees que puedes tolerarlo?

Estar abierto a probar sabores nuevos y atrevidos es una buena lección para aportar audacia y originalidad a todas nuestras iniciativas creativas. Como se suele decir, “la variedad es el condimento de la vida”.

Lo picante también puede ser emocionante y alusivo. Un comentario o una broma picantes son provocadores o controversiales. A menudo, estas “frases picantes” desafían las creencias convencionales y provocan reacciones fuertes y apasionadas en las personas.

Entonces, ¿cómo puedes incorporar algo picante a tu trabajo y tu enfoque de la vida?  

¡¡Démosle sabor!!

QUICK FIRE QUERIES :: Frankie Margotta

Our series of random questions that dig a little deeper into the minds of the people holding the mic…

So, Frankie, what’s your current book or podcast obsession?  A good friend just gifted me The Star Wars Archives: Episodes IV-VI, written by Paul Duncan and published by TASCHEN, and I love it so far. I’m a fan of Star Wars, of course, but also of Industrial Light and Magic and their whole legacy. This is the first volume of the series and takes readers through how the original trilogy was created while offering up fresh insights and artifacts.

What phrase do you find yourself repeating all too often?  *Honestly, don’t have one for this!*

Favorite taco shop?  Not a ‘taco shop’ but my absolute favorite spot in San Diego (that also has tacos) is Novo Brazil in Otay Ranch. Their hard kombucha is my favorite and the entire vibe is incredible. They also do a ton for the San Diego community, which I respect and appreciate.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?  “How you do anything is how you do everything.” I’d argue we learn as much—if not more—about ourselves and one another by what we do in the small moments, not just the big ones.

Who or what inspires you?  San Diego inspires me; the people, the architecture, the food, the natural life, the energy—all of it. Anytime I’m out in the city, I always come back feeling hopeful and recharged.

Favorite coffee shop in San Diego?  I love coffee and San Diego is such a coffee town—I have so many. I will say that really miss Young Hickory and wish they were still around. That said, a special place for me is Trident Coffee, with locations in IB, Coronado, and PB. A friend owns the location and watching him succeed has been a true joy. Also, I’m a big fan of nitro cold brew and they have the best around.

What’s a secret talent of yours? I am a (very) amateur slight-of-hand enthusiast—primarily with playing cards. I picked it up when I was a teenager because I loved being able to grab a deck of cards and light people’s faces up, even if it was only for a few seconds.

What’s your go-to karaoke song? Oof! If I had to, probably I Love You by Dru Hill—and I would not do it justice.

What’s your favorite thing about the San Diego community? I love the synergy. As a major metro and cross-border community, there’s a ton of unique fusions that happen naturally, but what I find truly special is the way the city favors collaboration over competition. For the most part, we aren’t trying to win at the expense of others, like I’ve seen in so many other cities and communities.