bership in the performing and visual arts society at my high school (I was nominated for writing), to work in a downtown Springfield department store advertising department surrounded by fine artists and photographers (my first job as a writer), to my career in as a writer and editor for The Reminder – where we sit only a few yards from the artists who design the advertising in our 12 community weeklies and all our other products.
I’ve collaborated on ads, on covers for myriad publications, on multi-page story spreads – and in doing so have seen the passion and process of many artists and photographers.
I also understand both from my experience as a writer – and from the many creative people I’ve worked with – how much the act of creating is a very solo process.
The classic TV and film image of a writer or artist holed up in a solitary studio is not too far from the truth. Creativity requires discipline and focus and drive. Nobody else can express what I want to say in a story for me (forgive my bias ChatGPT) nor take that perfect photo for a photographer, nor create the piece of art that an artist sees in his mind’s eye.
The act of creating is a highly personal, usually singular, endeavor.
But that doesn’t mean creative people also don’t hunger to share the experience. Anyone who has ever attended an artist’s reception or a book reading by an author can attest to the desire creative people have to share their product and their process.
The desire to connect and to share is a very human need.
But for many creative people – particularly men in creative fields – that’s not an opportunity that’s easy to find.
That’s what makes the Creative Group for Men 50+ hosted by Make-It-Springfield so unique. This space gives creative men a place to meet and talk and share their experience with others who have walked the path as well. Part social club, part support group, it’s a haven for men whose careers may be winding down – or in some cases taking off in a new direction.
Fellow writer and former Reminder Executive Editor G. Michael Dobbs visited with the group and wrote about the men he met. Check out his story – and a profile of one of the founding members – in this month’s feature story on page 6.
Proactive planning for retirement living
Everyone wants to age in place, but if circumstances change and that option is no longer possible, it can be a scramble to find the right fit for yourself or a loved one. Mary Anne Schelb, director at Lifecare Legacy, makes a case for early planning, outlines options and offers concrete steps to take when making a change in living arrangements in this month’s Three Big Questions on page 14.
It’s April, the weather, hopefully, is improving and it’s time to start thinking about taking a spring walk, planting a garden and planning for a summer getaway. Whatever way you choose to spend your spring days, I hope you make the most of every one.
As always, thanks for reading,
Debbie Gardner
dgardner@thereminder.com
