(quiet, space). a place for rest, reflection, and creation.

Erin Schalk

Too often, we find ourselves pressured to suppress our creative work in favor of seemingly more practical pursuits, forcing perpetual productivity to the point of burnout. Instead, we truly need time to pause, reflect deeply, and allow ourselves opportunities to think innovatively and play creatively.

In (quiet, space). a place for rest, reflection, and creation., internationally-recognized artist, writer, and educator Erin Schalk shares her stories of navigating challenging life circumstances while making creative work. With her characteristic gentle demeanor, she also reminds us that our best art is often found between the cracks of our daily lives.

In this collection of poetry, images, and prompts, Schalk guides you toward making quiet time and space for your creative work, shares thoughts on how to begin if your ideas have run dry, and assists you with seeing the beauty and possibilities inherent in the world around you. In (quiet, space)., you will move through a series of themes designed for close looking and listening such as stillness, movement, fragmented self, innovation, and preserving hope.

In this text, you will find:

• 15 poetry fragments to build upon, using your own creative work and ideas,
• 15 images for quiet reflection, designed to help you refocus on what is most important,
• 30 thoughtful prompts for writing, personal journaling, and creative making,
• Guidelines for where to begin, especially if you find yourself overwhelmed and unable to start,
• A handful of encouraging mini-essays,
• ...and more.

Through (quiet, space), allow yourself the freedom to uncover long-buried ideas and insights. These can become the starting points for poems, short stories, drawings, paintings, personal essays, or whatever your preferred creative work happens to be.