Written by Erin Daugherty

July 16th, 2025

I’ve been feeling called to reopen up space for writing in the blog format again. The truth is, I’ve ALWAYS dreamed of having a successful blog. But it’s also always felt like it should be more than that- and I just might be reaching an evolution of this dream with the Spiritual Sunflower’s online website. This platform is not just a blog. It’s also a handmade marketplace, a space to share the Spiritual Sunflower’s story, provide support to the collective, and spread the word about events and other amazing artists and small businesses. I am SO thankful for this space, and for YOU!

Thank you for being here. Thank you for holding space for my thoughts, experiences, advice, ramblings, and being part of the Spiritual Sunflower community.

 

 

Now to delve into my topic of the day, a theme that has been present in every phase of my life, from early childhood to now (early adulthood), a source of comfort, inspiration, release, and transformation:

ART

Art is the only constant.

It’s so simple. But an infinitely important and deeply impactful reminder, that someone just might need to hear right now. 

Since the last time I sat down to write a blog post, nearly everything about my life has changed, and even much of my dreams. In a sense, I am living a life that I always imagined, in a way that I never imagined. It’s been refreshing and eye opening in many ways. As I’ve settled and integrated all that I’ve learned into this new chapter of my life, I have come to realize (not for the first time) that art is the biggest thing that has remained the same throughout all of it. 

Sometimes I create more art. Sometimes I consume more art. Sometimes I perform more art. Sometimes I simply be the art. 

Regardless, art is always a safe space, and has always led me to connect with other people seeking similar safety, peace, and rejuvenation.

I believe that the nature of humanity and the nature of creativity are deeply connected. I believe that being human is being creative. One does not exist without the other. And with this, every human being is creative in their own unique ways. Part of why we all are here is to explore this nature of creative humanity and that is why the desire to create and appreciate other creations persists through every phase in life, every joyous celebration, and every soul gripping challenge. 

So what does it mean to be creative? Simply put, it is the act using the imagination and original ideas to produce something new, generally some form of artwork. Creative activity is categorized into different artistic branches, including: painting, music, literature, and dance. These are also different forms of art. But art has many more shapes and forms, too many to go in to right now.

Art is the expression and application of creative skill, self expression, and imagination. Something that makes art special is that its intent of creation, is to evoke beauty and emotional power to be shared with others. 

Art relies on the intention of sharing of its emotional power to be set apart from normal, everyday, creative acts. That’s a big contributor to why there are so many close knit communities, in every city of the world, surrounding like minded artistic interests. 

In these communities, you can flow in and out, and show up how you need to at that time. Some people set everything up, some people perform, others create, and some people come to just be present and enjoy it. All aspects of art and creativity come together and work hand in hand with one another. Every individual is essential to the existence of such communities, regardless of their unique creative talents or interests. The appreciation for the various forms of art transcends the illusions of conflicts and separations. It provides a sense of safety, belonging, and unity that brings us all closer to the energy of divine love. Every one is accepted for who they are and valued for how they are able to contribute, even if that is just with their loving presence.

 

Art is meant to be shared.

Is there a community or a friend or two that comes to mind, when you think of who you want to share your art with, or feel inspired by?

Those are the places and people to lean in to at times of fear, doubt, challenge, sadness, grief or anxiety.

Is there a creative hobby or activity that makes you feel calm and grounded even in the most turmoil and chaotic moments?

Those are the self-soothing habits to rely on during these moments.

Sometimes the hardest thing to do is reach out for help, or take the necessary action to help ourselves. But art is a space that you do not have to be okay. You do not have to have it all together. Some of the most memorable and impactful pieces of art in every creative being’s journey is produced when life feels the darkest. This simple truth directly demonstrates just how powerful and healing the drive to create art is. Since all artists understand this truth, artists do not have to hide their struggles from one another. We can support each other in transforming and expressing our heavy emotions and valid each others experiences.

Creating a successful work of art is thrilling and validating for every creative being. What makes art successful?

The provoktion of emotions and stir of conversation and different interpretations. 

A piece of art might make two people feel and think totally different things. But regardless, the feelings invoked are passionate and mirror those of the artist that created it in this sense. This creates opportunities for connection, conversation, and understanding of different realities and perspectives; a very integral part of the art community. 

Art is not perfection. It is not what it seems to be at first glance. This goes for you and your present circumstances, too.

The raw, uncononditionally loving way that art – both the ability to create it, and “consume” it – is ALWAYS available to us, makes it the only constant in this life. You, and every thing and every one around you can change, but you can always create and rely on your mutually creative peers for support. 

Creating is essential. Being creative, is being human.

How will you express your authentic, creative self today?

Thank you for tuning in to the return of the Spiritual Sunflower blog. Sending love and light always and forever,

Erin