Part 2: The Project and The Creative

Build the Creative series

👋 Dear Creative. How are you doing today?

Who would you be without your self-initiated projects?

A mindful reflection on those projects that redefined who we thought we were for the better. Creatives and projects go hand in hand. While one may appear to be leading, it quickly becomes a collaborative dance. Can you recall a project you created and believed in so deeply that it became a tangible concept? Maybe you worked on it for days, months, or even years. Do you find yourself smiling at the lessons it taught you? If yes, you share a deep bond with your projects. After all, everything begins with an idea—that precious and volatile spark you must seize... now!

Unexpected creative solutions can shift the mind and route…

✦ Did you miss part 1? It was all about the Client and The Creative

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☕ Grab some tea or coffee and let’s go!

1. The Projects and The Creative

2. Creative awe

3. Song of the day

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© Keva Epale

The Projects and The Creative

I started my journey with projects from childhood to art school, and beyond. Projects have positively shaped my life. As I grasp an inspiring idea it ignites curiosity and sparks a project. Curiosity is the driving force behind the projects we craft, whether alone or with fellow creatives. We are drawn to an idea that can be both exhilarating and challenging. We dwell on it, dance with it, play with it, and even argue with it as we grow. To this day, every project I have created and transformed from idea to reality has been cherished. The most challenging ones came from spontaneous hunches. Following them and leading you into a world bigger than you anticipated, yet so nurturing and empowering.

• What you learn from projects is invaluable
  I have learned the most from the projects I have created and led. Especially because they often emerged amid rejection from the design and illustration industry. My creative path was built upon the dynamics of rejection and realization. Each project became a leading answer to action, a step toward improvement. Why wait for an agency or client to say "yes"? When I can envision and build that dream project with the resources at hand. The experiences I gained from each project may not have started as the most professional but became more refined. As I trained and grew in confidence, they began to showcase character.

• Projects will reveal and summon you
  Each project you create, regardless of the field, comes from an idea that has graciously entered your radar. One, you dared to seize. It’s not just a whisper; it’s an opportunity to discover what lies within you. You will be challenged—there’s no doubt about it. But you will learn, and that wisdom will become your superpower. With each project comes the responsibility to push it to its full potential, allowing you to realize its beauty: you did it once. You can do it again, and again, and again!

• It’s mental, physical, and spiritual

  Some projects will consume your time, daily schedule, and even relationships. By becoming your main focus and priority. The projects you engage in shape the dynamics of who you are and who you are birthing. They embody resilience, as challenges and opportunities to think differently appear. It’s a mental game to keep pace and a physical commitment to sustain. But it can also be a spiritual encounter once finished (or when you think it is). While you are your toughest critic, even if it's all play, the project is like a newborn taking its first steps right before your eyes. And it’s so worth it!

• The industry has its standards and expectations
  By disrupting the one-way dynamic of your industry, you establish your standards and expectations. Your future collaborations and client work will benefit from these bold moves. Additionally, with each project you lead and create, you claim your voice and craft your mark. You are not only observing the industry or waiting for it to define you; you are paving your way. Who knows where that path will lead?

• The Money Talk
  A project often starts from a place of leisure, curiosity, and a desire to grow. Yet, it can also lead you into the world of business. It is a world with rules, values, engagement, innovation, play, and audacity. As a project develops, it can transform into a business and shift your creative role. If you already have a business, remember that with each project you create, there is potential for a new business opportunity.

• A project is a time capsule
  Each time I start a new project, I experience a sense of fulfilment and joy, even if the idea can be a harassing one. It’s a refreshing time-travel to witness how these projects have transformed my creative approach and made me a better creative. Each project has taught me to go the extra mile with what I have. This has been the best fuel for who I am today. A project is an archive of your growth. When they coexist, they become friends and companions, holding your memories. They embody different versions of yourself, and you are accountable to each of them! Even if projects have momentum, there are no rules. Years later, you can pick up a project and still do magic with it!

Rdv tomorrow for key takeaways from this encounter.

🤩 Creative awe

• 🐑 I am ok with being lonely (Building a world of your own can feel lonely, yet many solo builders are doing just that. Not everyone needs to understand what you’re doing, and that’s okay. I would describe it as a solitary route rather than a lonely one. For me, solitude is a wisdom retreat —a space that nourishes me daily and keeps me connected to the vision and its joy).

• 🧠 An artist: Multiple in One (Avan Jogia shares his artistry and innovative vision through projects that blur boundaries. Actor, writer, model, singer, artist... a free spirit and a creative leader).

• 💪 Rejection builds confidence (I watched Love is Blind: Habibi and discovered an intriguing artist and mind. Khatab’s perspective and educational content for aspiring young DJs are inspiring.).

I hope you enjoyed this new issue. Feel free to share it with peers, friends, and family; it helps more people discover this space. Additionally, if you enjoy the content and believe in what I am building here, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support would mean the world to me and help fuel the vision. You can also find more ways to share the love here.

I leave you with the song of the day, mesmerizing sounds from the king of K-pop, Taemin + all time goodie The Frames.

Sending 🌱vibes.
Keva.

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