Where Creativity Meets Community: A Participant’s Perspective

Last Saturday, I had an amazing time attending Creative Community Impact Association's very first workshop, thoughtfully led by our Executive Director, Jacquelyn Miccolis, at the Bedford Public Library.

The theme? Community building through art.

Jacquelyn’s attention to detail and genuine warmth came through in every part of the experience. From the custom handmade circular paper she thoughtfully preordered for each participant to the curated playlist that set a calm, peaceful tone, every element reflected her care. She created a space that felt safe, welcoming, and open for creativity to unfold.

We began by reflecting on what community means to us, then let our imaginations flow freely on a pre-drawn paper, before learning watercolour techniques that brought our ideas to life.

During the workshop, something she said stuck with me:

"When we were kids, we loved playing with crayons. But as we grow older, our artistic spark often gets buried under adult responsibilities."

In today’s fast-paced world, where our minds are constantly overstimulated and goal-driven, art becomes more than just a hobby; it’s a form of healing.

From a neuroscience perspective, creative expression activates parts of the brain linked to joy, focus, and emotional regulation. It quiets the stress response and allows new neural connections to form, the same ones associated with curiosity, empathy, and resilience! How cool is that?!

Jacquelyn’s leadership reminds me that creativity isn’t something we outgrow; it’s something we can return to when we want to feel whole again. Her passion for community and art shines through in everything she does, and it’s inspiring to witness that kind of purpose in action.