"This ‘telephone’ has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication. The device is inherently of no value to us." (From an internal memo at Western Union in 1876.) — Jonathan Vehar How to Generate Better Ideas

Shortly after I sent the last newsletter out, all sorts of chicken drawings began arriving in my inbox including the one below by Jean Foley (it really clucked me up — thanks for letting me share this, Jean!). In fact, I was so pleased at the participation in this feathered fun that I rewarded everyone who participated just for not chickening out.

More Cartoony Fun! Because of the exceptional response to my new playbook, I'm continuing the going-back-to-school promotion for both the personal and teacher's edition of You Can Draw Cartoony Things! I've also made more sample drawing lessons available for you to try if you want to see how the book works (print 'em here).

Finally, if you have a creativity-related Web site and are interested in reviewing my digital playbook for your readers, please contact me with your interest.

Introducing Screenwriter and Writing Coach Jurgen Wolff
I'm thrilled to announce a special new addition to Creativity Portal's growing author series, writer Jurgen Wolff.

Jurgen is "a writer who teaches creativity and right-brain writing workshops around the world," and has written half a dozen books, including “Your Writing Coach” (read an excerpt). Jurgen's screen credits include the feature film, “The Real Howard Spitz,” starring Kelsey Grammer and more than 100 produced episodes of various series, including “Relic Hunter,” “Benson,” and “Family Ties,” as well as his animated series, “Norman Normal.”

Jurgen's first article on the Creativity Portal is How to be a Successful Part-Time Writer, which discusses six ways to successfully juggle a full-time job, family and personal obligations with a part-time writing career. Learn more about Jurgen and his coaching work at his Web site, www.yourwritingcoach.com.

Chris Dunmire
Creative Director and Publisher

Art of the Song Creativity Corner
“You Should Write more about…”
By Eileen Kalinowski
I wish I could listen, smile, and think, “they’re trying to connect with the artist in me. They want to be part of this energy. They think their good ideas will inspire me somehow.” But that is not what goes on in my mind.

Creative Careers in the Arts Interviews
Interview with Pat Conway: Poet, Photographer, Librarian
By Molly Anderson-Childers
This month, I will be interviewing the fabulously talented poet, photographer and librarian Pat Conway. This busy lady loves the outdoors, and has been a bird-watcher for most of her life. She is also an experienced bee-keeper.

How to be a Successful Part-Time Writer
By Jurgen Wolff
Many people dream of giving up their job and being full-time writers, but it’s not always practical, at least in the short term.

Your Most Powerful Writing Tool
By Cynthia Morris
You have 10 seconds... can you guess what it is?

Women, Painting and Power
By Chris Zydel
We are living in times of great change and uncertainty and it is critical that we reclaim our birthright of strength, authority and creative vision to take advantage of the opportunity that we have to recreate the world as a place where our most treasured values can survive.

Process Art and Intuitive Painting
By Chris Dunmire
Some art isn't intended for public consumption. ... This art is used for personal processing work, much like a private journal is used by a writer to explore, untangle, and understand impulses and issues deep within themselves.