There is a reason The Artist's Way keeps getting passed from friend to friend.
Since its first publication, it has inspired the genius of Elizabeth Gilbert, Tim Ferriss, Reese Witherspoon, Alicia Keys, and millions of readers to embark on a creative journey and find a deeper connection to process and purpose. Its premise is simple and generous: creativity is not a rare talent; it is part of being human, and it can be recovered.
Using techniques such as Morning Pages and Artist Dates, Julia Cameron guides readers in uncovering the problems and pressure points that may be restricting their creative flow, and offers techniques to open up opportunities for self-growth and self-discovery.
The book also asks a lot. It is a week-by-week course with daily and weekly practices, and most people who finish it will tell you the same thing: it is far easier, and far richer, with a group. This winter, CSL Tacoma is offering two.
Two pivotal tools:
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Morning pages: writing three pages in a journal every morning. They aren't meant to be good, just to clear the way.
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The weekly artist date: a block of time committed to nurturing your creative consciousness. This date is solo, just you and your inner artist.
Each week the group reads a chapter and works with its tasks. Our sessions are for checking in, sharing what is shifting, and encouraging one another through the weeks when the inner critic gets loud.
Who it's for
Anyone who feels a pull toward more creativity, play, or meaning in their life. You do not need to consider yourself an artist. You don't need to have read the book before, and if you have, a second or third read tends to reveal something new.
Two groups to choose from
Fridays, 5:30–8:00 PM with group leader Allison Duellman
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January 8, 15, 22, 29
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February 5, 19, 26
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(no class February 12)
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March 5, 12, 19, 26
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April 2, 9
Sundays, 4:00–6:30 PM with group leader Justin Thomas Arbuthnot
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January 10, 17, 24, 31
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February 7, 21, 28
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(no class February 14)
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March 7, 14, 21, 28
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April 4, 11
Time commitment
To fully prepare and empower you for the course, here is a guideline for the time it takes to complete it:
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2.5-hour group meeting once a week
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1–2 hours each week to read the chapter and complete its tasks
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1–2 hours each week for your solo artist date
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30–40 minutes each day for your morning pages
What to bring
Required book: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. You'll also want a journal for your morning pages.
Location and parking
Center for Spiritual Living Tacoma, 206 N J St, Tacoma, WA 98403. Parking is on the street around the Center. Please be respectful of the neighborhood when choosing your spot, and take care not to block a driveway.
Cost
There is no cost to participate. The group leader asks for a $6 contribution per person per meeting (12 meetings, excluding the first class orientation). You may contribute $72 when you register or at each group meeting. All contributions are tax-deductible.
Registration
Opens December 1, 2026.