Why Collaboration is My Most Creative Tool

Collaboration between two creatives is a powerful experience.  It is one that I turn to time and time again because the result is always far more rewarding than the effort expended.  Collaboration means two people show up and bring their best selves to the table with a free exchange of ideas.  Whether this is on an art piece, an online class or a challenge the result is one of increased skill sets for all involved and those that are watching.  

If you are looking to push yourself creatively, discover new techniques and products, or open yourself up to new experiences, collaboration is worth strongly considering.  I love to teach online classes but add in the layer of collaboration with a co-teacher and I am hooked. My love of co-teaching is so strong that I refuse to teach alone. I love the interplay that happens when two people with the same goal start riffing ideas.  The next thing you know you are finishing each other’s sentences and the idea has grown exponentially into something far better than you ever imagined possible.

Looking for an easy way to grow your audience? Collaborate.  When you are posting collaborations on social media you are essentially joining the audiences of two creatives into the same pool.  Both creatives will see a healthy jump in their audience. It is a win-win. Along with the many other bonuses of a temporary creative partnership, this one can be the cherry on top.

 
Why collaboration is my most creative tool article by Sandi Keene. #creativecoaching #coaching #sandikeene
 
The next thing you know you are finishing each other’s sentences and the idea has grown exponentially into something far better than you ever imagined possible.
— Sandi Keene

Collaborating is a great way to increase your personal community. You have met a fellow creative and there is a great chance that you now know each other much better than you did.  A friendship may very well occur in this relationship. I have met several people that I now consider friends by reaching out to them and asking them to collaborate.  Since we live hundreds of miles apart (or even in different countries) I would have never had the chance to meet otherwise.

Of course, you need to be selective when you consider collaboration. I look for someone who has displayed friendliness, a desire to share online and inspire others.  The next step is being brave.  Contact the person asking if they would be interested in collaborating. If they say no, realize it likely has nothing to do with you.  Sometimes people are just busy or their lives are temporarily complicated. Leave the door open for a future partnering. Don’t stop there - ask another artist or maker.

Ready to collaborate? Prepare some flexible ideas.  Are you interested in co-hosting a Instagram challenge, co-teaching an online class, posting art in a back and forth manner within a specific category on social media, do a blog hop, or getting together and working on a piece together in person?  Be creative and open to new ideas - together.

I hope you will give it a try.