Friendship Through Creativity: How Shared Art Sparks Connection
- Rose Hill
- Aug 3
- 4 min read
Celebrating National Friendship Day with Co-Creative Connection
At Co-Creative Connection, we believe creativity is about more than just making something beautiful, it’s about making something together. It’s a doorway to trust, collaboration, and community. And one of the most magical outcomes we see again and again is Friendship!
So this National Friendship Day, we’re celebrating the powerful role that creativity plays in bringing people closer, and why creative spaces matter more than ever in helping friendships form, grow, and thrive.
Why Creative Projects Bring People Together
In a world that is often disconnected and very busy for everyone, it can be really hard to make new friends, especially as adults. We don’t always have the spaces, or the prompts, to strike up meaningful conversations with people that we don’t know.
That’s where creativity comes in! When we host workshops or paint murals in communities, something special happens! The focus isn’t on networking or talking, it’s on creating. That shared activity acts like a bridge, gently connecting people across differences without pressure or expectation.
As we work on projects, stories start to surface too. These could be stories about life, family, culture, hope, identity. Without even realising it, strangers become teammates. Co-creation fosters trust, and from that trust, friendships start to take root.
Friendship in Every Brushstroke
We’ve witnessed countless moments that show just how powerful this can be:
🧓🏾 A group of older residents laughing with school kids as they choose colours and share ideas.
👋🏽 Two neighbours who’d never spoken before a workshop now stopping to chat every time they pass the mural they helped create.
🌈 A refugee and a long-time local bonding over shared ideas for what home feels like.
These aren’t one-off moments. Instead they are the seeds of long-lasting connection, which are often sparked by something as simple as picking up a paintbrush or sharing a idea.
The Science (and Soul) of Shared Creativity
Research backs this up too! Studies show that engaging in creative group activities can reduce loneliness, build social trust, and improve wellbeing. Art doesn’t just help us express ourselves, it helps us relate to others in deeper, more meaningful ways.
At CCC, we see this all the time. There might be times some people may come to our projects feeling hesitant, unsure, or disconnected, and leave feeling more confident, uplifted and connected to those around them! In the words of Bibi Maderbocus, Lewisham homes resident 2021:
"From someone who was very unsure and extremely anxious about participating in something I've never done before, I'm so glad I did. Rose was amazing, making you feel so easy and comfortable in taking part every step of the way. From the moment I had that paintbrush in my hand, I felt so relaxed and my mind was taken away from the day-to-day issues you would normally ace. Those were my few hours, just for me…. I made a life-long with a neighbour I didn’t know even lived here after 30 years."
Creative collaboration builds emotional safety, and that’s a powerful foundation for real friendship.
It’s About More Than the Art
Of course, the murals and art we make are very meaningful. But the most lasting part is the experience people share while creating them!
We’ve had families tell us our projects gave them a beautiful way to bond and spend time with those they love. We’ve had new residents say they finally felt like part of the neighbourhood after attending one of our workshops. We’ve seen friendships form between people of all ages, cultures and experiences, simply because they shared a paintbrush and a bit of time.
Friendship as a Force for Change
In times of uncertainty or disconnection, friendships remind us we’re not alone and that we belong. It shows us that we have people who care.
At CCC, we believe that friendships formed through creativity are especially powerful. They’re rooted in shared purpose, co-created joy, and mutual understanding which are the very values we want to see more of in the world.
So whether you’re a parent painting with your child, a teacher encouraging your students to join a workshop, or a community leader bringing a project to your neighbourhood, remember this: you’re not just making art, you’re helping friendships bloom.
Thank You for Creating With Us
To everyone who has shown up to one of our projects, with an open mind, a curious heart, and maybe a little bit of paint on your hands, thank you! Whether you came with a friend or left with one, you’re part of what makes our work meaningful!
Let’s keep co-creating spaces where people can feel connected, not just to art, but to each other!
Want to run a friendship-building project in your community?
We’d love to hear from you! Our murals, artworks and workshops are designed to be collaborative, intergenerational, and joyful. If you’d like to explore bringing a project to your school, station, neighbourhood or organisation, we’re just an email away.
💌 Get in touch on the link below and let’s make art, memories, and new friendships together
Please contact us via this link💛
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