Hey Reader

Ever walk into a place and feel like you’ve stepped into a portal of pure nostalgia and inspiration?

That was me at Rascal Salvage Vintage recently. The first thing I saw was a giant Falkor head from The NeverEnding Story. Cue instant childhood flashbacks!

As I ventured further inside, I stumbled upon an oversized ET, a collection of View-Master reels, and a treasure trove of vintage toys and items. It was a smorgasbord of creativity, a curated haven for the imagination.

​

So, what can we learn from a place like Rascal Salvage Vintage? It’s all about the power of curation and knowing your audience. Here are some insights and actionable tips to elevate your creative game:

​

• Embrace the Unexpected Just like the surprise of finding Falkor, let your creativity be delightfully unpredictable. Mix and match different elements in your work. It keeps your audience engaged and eager for more.
  ​Action Step: This week, experiment with combining two unexpected elements in your creative process. Maybe it’s a new color palette or an unusual medium. See what magic happens!
  ​
• Curate with Intention Rascal Salvage Vintage isn’t just a random collection of stuff; it’s a carefully curated experience. Each item tells a story and evokes emotion. Your creative work should do the same.
  ​Action Step:Take a step back and evaluate your current projects. Are you telling the story you want to tell? Make a list of what stays and what goes. Curate your work to ensure it resonates with your audience.
  ​
• Know Your Audience Rascal Salvage knows their customers – nostalgic souls looking for a slice of the past. They cater to that with precision. Knowing who you’re creating for helps you tailor your work to meet their desires and needs.
  ​Action Step: Spend some time this week getting to know your audience better. Engage with them, ask questions, and listen. Use this insight to refine your projects.
  ​
• Create a Vibe Walking through Rascal Salvage Vintage felt like being in a time capsule. The vibe was consistent and immersive. Your creative work should create a vibe that draws people in and keeps them coming back.
  ​Action Step:Think about the atmosphere you want to create with your work. Is it playful? Mysterious? Comforting? Make sure every element you add contributes to that overall vibe.
  ​
• Celebrate Your Unique Voice Rascal Salvage Vintage is unique because it embraces its quirky, nostalgic charm. Your unique voice and perspective are what set you apart. Lean into it!
  ​Action Step: Identify one unique element of your creative process or style and amplify it. Don’t be afraid to let your quirks shine.

Final Thought Remember, curation is an art form in itself. It’s about making choices that reflect your vision and resonate with your audience.

Next time you’re working on a project, think of yourself as the curator of a vintage shop – what treasures will you showcase?

Now go create and CURATE something!

~ Mike Brennan

DAILY CHECK-IN

Begin to ask yourself these questions every day as a part of your daily creating rhythms:

1. What did I create today?

2. What did I learn?

3. What can I celebrate?

DAILY PROMPTS

MONDAY: Draw a toy from your childhood.

TUESDAY: If you were to recast the toys from the movie Toy Story, what toys would you choose?

WEDNESDAY: Create a sculpture that incorporates elements of your favorite place or location.

THURSDAY: Write a story about a character who discovers a secret room in their home.

WEEKEND PROMPT:

Take a sketchbook to an antique dealer or vintage shop. Draw the items you see and make some notes about your experience.
​