Unlocking Your Creativity
In the midst of life’s responsibilities, carving out time for creativity can be a powerful way to find balance, fulfillment and joy. Creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s a fundamental part of being human, fueling innovation, self-expression and personal growth. Whether through art, writing or movement; engaging in creative hobbies can improve mental well-being, reduce stress and bring a renewed sense of purpose.
In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to sideline creativity in favor of productivity. Exploring a creative hobby is the perfect way to bring more meaning and joy into your routine! This is your guide to jumpstarting creativity.
Follow your curiosity
Finding a creative outlet as an adult can feel daunting, but the best place to start is by following your curiosity. Pay attention to what makes you feel present, inspired, or at ease.
Ask yourself:
- What activities make me lose track of time?
- Where do I find the most joy?
- What have I always wanted to explore?
- What did I love doing as a child?
As children, creativity came naturally, whether through drawing, storytelling, building or imaginative play. Reconnecting with these early joys can unlock new creative outlets in adulthood. Maybe you loved playing outside? Try nature photography or landscape painting. Was storytelling your favorite? Experiment with writing, journaling or improvisation. For those who enjoyed crafts, explore pottery, embroidery or DIY projects. See what aligns best for you.
The Whole U resources for creativity
Through our pillar Engaging Interests, The Whole U strives to connect the UW community with their passions and interests. See if you can strike a creative outlet with the following Whole U programs.
Arts and crafts
Art Series with Miha Sarani
Led by UW alum and artist Miha Sarani, this virtual series covers artistic styles ranging from portrait drawing to comic sketching in a relaxed and engaging setting.
- Famous portraits over time and elements to portraiture in painting
- Portrait drawing workshop
- Comic drawing workshop
- Sketching workshop
Intuitive Painting Workshop
Tap into your intuition through spontaneous painting with instructor Lotte Goede. This session encourages free expression—no experience necessary!
Watercolor Painting with Sarah Simon (The Mint Gardener)
Expert Sarah Simon for a guided watercolor session, where you’ll explore floral and botanical painting techniques in a supportive, creative environment.
Doodle Therapy with SpaceCraft
Learn some fun and easy doodling techniques, plus provide some structured inspiration for future art activities.
UW Knitting & Crochet Club
Interested in meeting with UW faculty and staff to knit & crochet? All are welcome to join.
The Origins of Origami
This webinar recording explores the background of origami culture and gives a guided instruction in creating origami.
Smartphone Photography
This guide from The Whole U’s very own Sebastian Ky dives into the key tenets of smartphone photography, and includes a webinar recording.
Writing and reading 
Writing for Wellness
In this workshop with Megan Callow, you’ll be guided through mindful journaling techniques. Link coming soon!
How to use the UW Libraries workshop
Learn from UW Librarians how to access and use the many resources within the UW Libraries!
The Whole U articles
Looking to learn more about the benefits of creativity? Here are additional articles from The Whole U exploring themes of creativity, including the benefits of art for mental health and a profile on Brooke Emrich, UW’s knitting aficionado.
- How to find new hobbies and foster creativity
- Art for self-care and mental health
- Building community one stitch at a time
- Music for wellness
The Whole U discounts
Within The Whole U discount network, you’ll find many discounts to connect with creative communities in the greater Seattle area. Here are just a few!
Ikebana Japanese Floral Arrangement by Megumi
UW faculty and staff can take 15% off the first introductory class to Ikebana floral arrangement with Megumi Schacher.
University Book Store – The Pack Rewards
Join The Pack Rewards™ – University Book Store’s free membership program for University of Washington and Cascadia College students, faculty, and staff, plus UWAA and UWRA members!
UW Press
Your one-stop shop for books published by the UW community. Receive a 20% discount.
BrushCapades
BrushCapades is an online creative studio that hosts virtual art classes for groups, large and small, in acrylic painting, watercolor, sketching, and caricature drawing. Save $10 off the $35 per person instruction fee. Mention UW affiliation upon booking.
Creative Hands Studio
Whether you want to throw an art-themed birthday party or corporate team-building workshop, we have the facilities and team to meet your needs. Choose from many options including Paint on Canvas, Acrylic Pour Paintings, Pottery Wheel Throws, Clay Sculpting, Fluid Resin Paintings, Ceramic Glazing, and more. UW faculty and staff can take 50% off our Pottery Wheel Throw Class using code Messy30
Spacecraft Seattle
Let us help you tap into your creative side! A place for adults to experience casual creativity, community, and screen-free playtime. People can unwind, ground down, and reconnect to the beauty in everything. Now offering 10% off to UW Huskies using the discount code GODAWGS.
Broadway at the Paramount
The Paramount is proud to announce special UW rates for the 2025 Broadway season on stage at the Seattle Paramount Theatre. Score tickets to Hamilton, Life of Pi, Mama Mia and more.
Wherever you are on your creativity journey, we hope you find joy through the creative process! Creativity shouldn’t be stressful, take one small step at a time to welcome more play into your day.