As we step into a new year, let’s pause and reflect on the energy that fuels our creativity. In our demanding and uncertain world, working as an artist is often tied to constant production in order to survive. Regardless of the physical, financial, and mental toll, artists have to generate nonstop which easily leads to burn out. The truth is, creativity thrives not just on time, but on energy—renewed, nurtured, and aligned. It’s vital to reframe how we approach self-care with an understanding of the need for rest and recovery in the creative process. The next installment of our Artist Advancement Series is "Caring for Yourself: Artistic Leadership," a workshop designed for artists to reconnect with their energy, develop tools to balance artistic output with meaningful recovery, and grant themselves permission to rest. Through interactive exercises and reflective prompts, we’ll go beyond traditional notions of self-care and explore key dimensions of well-being. 💡 Thriving: Flourishing today and dreaming big for tomorrow 🌈 Wonder: Embracing challenge, awe, and innovation 🌟 Wisdom: Aligning purpose, vision, and genius 🔥 Fuel: Nourishing body, mind, and spirit 🎶 Flow: Finding presence and freedom in your art This workshop encourages letting go of perfectionism and embracing spontaneity through a mix of improvisation, group collaboration, guided reflection, and actionable tools. 🗓 *When*: Saturday, January 18 | 11 AM–2 PM 📍 *Where*: United Way of Summit & Medina, Akron, OH RSVP for FREE here <https://7m4c7nxm.r.us-east-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fwww.catac-akron.com%2Faas/1/0100019415ab6b94-ec87403d-bca2-47a6-9156-90f88cd3daa3-000000/5yaLkZfOMP-c8J-I3Fy1Zjc8EZw=406>. Rediscover the freedom and vitality that fuel your artistic expression—join us and start the year grounded in creativity and renewal! -- [image: catac logo 4.png] *Tessa Gaffney* Marketing Director, *The Center for Applied Theatre and Active Culture*