"Creative Alchemy: Brooke McNamara and Lauren Beale on Art and Mindfulness"
Episode 10: "The Alchemy of Creative Collaboration: Brooke McNamara and Lauren Beale"
Introduction: In this episode, Leah Leonard, Lauren, and Brooke introduce themselves as artists, creative thinkers, and mothers who love big questions. (PLAY @0:09)
Teaching Creative Practice: The trio discusses their experience teaching creative practice in various communities and universities around the world, as well as their background in studying Zen. They also share how they formed a strong collaborative partnership after initially feeling a competitive edge towards each other in grad school. (PLAY @15:19)
The Power of Pausing: Leah, Lauren, and Brooke emphasize the importance of pausing in the creative process and recognizing something greater than their individual egos at play. They discuss sitting with discomfort, embracing curiosity, and following what brings them alive, regardless of whether they identify as artists or not. (PLAY @26:15)
Art and Creativity: The trio discusses the importance of art and creativity in their lives, how it saved them during difficult times, and how it connects them to their unique expression and the interconnectedness of humanity. They emphasize that art is not just a frivolous practice, but a fundamental aspect of being human. (PLAY @38:13)
The Concept of "Good Work": Leah, Lauren, and Brooke explore the concept of "good work" in their podcast. They delve into the idea of being good versions of themselves while also being open to the world and redefining what it means to do good work. (PLAY @50:00)
Shifting the Concept of Work: The trio discusses how the concept of work can be shifted to include multiple perspectives and nourish both individuals and relationships. They also touch on Leah's upcoming project and the possibility of sharing interviews and making donations to support each other's work. (PLAY @1:01:31)
Expressing Gratitude: Brooke expresses gratitude towards Leah and Lauren for their love and support, and Leah reciprocates the affection. (PLAY @1:12:37)
Resources mentioned:
https://www.brookemcnamara.com/
Cultivate: Creative Practice in the Belly of Impermanence