The Unexpected Gift of Connection
- katkinso1
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 15
By: Kathleen Atkinson
Starting and growing a creative business can feel incredibly lonely. Whether you're in surface design or any other artistic field, the path is often filled with trial and error, uncertainty, and moments of self-doubt. But what I’ve realized through my own journey is that connection changes everything.
When I first started in surface design three years ago, I had no idea how many incredible people I would meet. It takes courage to share our work, our stories, and our creative journeys. But when we do, we open the door to connections with those who truly understand us—people who support, inspire, and challenge us to grow. These relationships have the potential to be so much more than business connections; they become a true community.
I still remember the first time I joined a Zoom call with my study group from Immersion back in 2022. I was nervous—maybe even a little terrified. I didn’t know who I would meet or how I would fit in. But as the other women joined the call, I began to feel a sense of calm. We all had the same mix of excitement and hesitation, and in that moment, I realized we were all in this together. That first call was just the beginning, and soon, our weekly meetings became the highlight of my week.
Within that first year, we really felt the pull to connect more. A few of us were ready to finally meet in person, and that’s when our trip to New York came together. Three of us got to connect face-to-face and make the most of it—museum visits, art in Central Park, and even a Broadway show (Phantom of the Opera to be exact!!). It was such a memorable experience. ❤️
Three years later, we are still going strong. These women have become some of my closest friends. We talk almost daily; we meet weekly and now creating yearly art retreats!
The best part? Our group has grown. Through these connections, we’ve joined other groups, expanded our circle, and built friendships that have been life changing.
I just returned from my third art retreat from Hilton Head, South Carolina with these amazing women once again. I’m reminded of the power of connection. From the laughter, the deep conversations, the quiet moments of creating together—these experiences are priceless. I’ve learned so much from them and continue to grow because of these relationships. They’ve helped me find confidence in my work and pride in what I’m building—something that hasn’t always come easily.
Art Retreat 2025 - Hilton Head , South Carolina. U.S.A | Lori Trapani, @loritrapanidesigns | Janet Banks, @janetbanksdesign |
Rebecca Quinn, @homewithrebeccaquinn | Mandy McMaster, @mandy_mcmaster_ | Anna Schloemer @annaschloemerdesigns
The more I connect with other artists, the more I realize that we all face similar challenges. Our journeys may look different, but the struggles, the doubts, and the dreams are so alike. And knowing this? It’s incredibly reassuring. It reminds me that I’m on the right path and that support is always there if we seek it.
So, if you’re feeling alone in your creative journey, I encourage you to reach out. Ask questions, send that message, connect with the artists who inspire you. The doors are there—you just need to open them. And once inside, you might find confidence, reassurance, collaboration, or even a lifelong friendship.
This journey isn’t meant to be walked alone. Let’s create, connect, and grow together.
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Kathleen, This is SO beautifully written. You captured all the important moments we spent together. I am forever grateful for this social group of ladies who are walking along side me on my creative journey AND life journey. I would venture to say that “connection” is one of the most important pillars of your business.