• Building Your Professional Network through a Mentorship Community

    Building Your Professional Network through a Mentorship Community

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    Connection That Transforms Your Art Career

    My friend, have you ever felt like you’re walking your artistic journey alone? Like you’re the only one who understands the unique challenges of being a Christian artist trying to make meaningful work in today’s world?

    I hear this from artists all the time—this sense of isolation, of trying to figure everything out on your own while longing for genuine connection with others who share your values and vision.

    The truth is, we were never meant to walk this path alone.

    “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

    God designed us for community, for relationships that challenge us, support us, and help us become all He’s called us to be. And nowhere is this more important than in your development as an artist.

    The Transformative Power of Artistic Community

    Inside the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program, we’ve witnessed something remarkable: when Christian artists come together in purposeful community, something beautiful happens that goes far beyond just “networking.”

    True artistic community becomes:

    1. A Safe Harbor for Authentic Connection

    In today’s competitive art world, finding people you can truly trust—who want to see you succeed rather than viewing you as competition—can be challenging. Inside our mentorship community, you’ll discover:

    • A judgment-free zone where vulnerability is welcomed and honored
    • Relationships built on shared values and spiritual foundation
    • Connection with artists who genuinely celebrate your wins and support you through challenges

    As Toni Wesner, one of our members, shares: “Your mentoring group is the first real community I’ve experienced. I’m deeply humbled by it and realize the incredible amount of love and work you put into it.”

    2. A Living Network of Diverse Creative Wisdom

    In many networking scenarios, you might connect with one or two key people. But in a vibrant mentorship community like Created to Thrive, you tap into a living network of artists:

    • From diverse backgrounds, ages, and stages of artistic development
    • Working in various mediums, markets, and geographic locations
    • With complementary skills, knowledge, and experiences
    • Who bring unique perspectives to common challenges

    This diversity creates a rich ecosystem of wisdom far beyond what any single mentor—even myself—could provide alone.

    3. A Platform for Kingdom Collaboration

    Some of the most beautiful stories from our community involve artists who never imagined their work would expand through collaboration:

    • Members who’ve joined forces for gallery shows and exhibitions
    • Artists who’ve discovered complementary skills and launched joint projects
    • Creators who’ve found teaching opportunities through community connections
    • Experienced artists mentoring newer ones in specific techniques or markets

    These aren’t just business transactions—they’re Kingdom collaborations born from relationship and mutual respect.

    How Created to Thrive Cultivates Meaningful Connections

    Our mentorship program intentionally fosters relationship-building in multiple ways:

    1. Structured Community Touchpoints

    • Weekly Live Q&A Sessions: Connect face-to-face while learning together
    • Weekly Expert Hours: Get personal input in your business in art, marketing, websites, social media, email marketing and more.
    • Monthly BizChat: Focus on business development in a group setting
    • Monthly CommunityChat: Deepen relationships around shared artist experiences
    • Mastermind Weekend Events: Intensive in-person gatherings for deeper connection

    2. Digital Connection Platforms

    • Private Member Facebook Group: Daily interaction with fellow artists
    • Member Discussion Forum: Topic-specific conversations and support
    • BackStage Pass Interviews: Learn from the journeys of fellow members
    • Case Study Sessions: Deep-dive problem-solving with real community members

    3. Facilitated Relationship Building

    • Experienced Community Facilitation: Where we actively connect members with complementary needs and gifts
    • Small Group Formation: To nurture deeper relationships among artists with similar interests or challenges
    • Strategic Introductions: Between members who can benefit from knowing each other

    Real Stories of Network Transformation

    The power of community connection isn’t theoretical—it’s evidenced in countless stories from our members:

    • Robin Popp shares: “This group is a blessing on so many levels… we are growing into a community of artists encouraging one another to strive for excellence. I’m so glad to be a part of it!”
    • Marilee Gazelka discovered: “‘Created to Thrive’ helps you to stay connected to other artists who also desire to be skilled and filled… You will be encouraged to get rid of old patterns and embrace the new.”
    • Jennifer Spangler reflected: “The Created to Thrive Experience has opened up a whole world of possibilities I didn’t see before in my craft. I have gained a wealth of information about myself, the Father, and the art world from being part of this community.”
    • Jill Williams found: “Being a part of the Created to Thrive group has enabled me to gain wisdom and insight about the process of making and selling art that I’ve been unable to access on my own because of my limited experience.”

    Beyond Traditional Networking: A Kingdom Community

    What makes the networking within Created to Thrive unique is that it’s built on Kingdom principles—not just transactional relationships or “what can you do for me” thinking.

    This community is founded on:

    • Abundance mindset rather than scarcity thinking
    • Generosity in sharing knowledge, opportunities, and resources
    • Honor for each person’s unique journey and calling
    • Authenticity in celebrating successes and navigating challenges
    • Prayer and spiritual support that goes deeper than business advice

    Your Place in the Community Is Waiting

    Imagine being part of a thriving network of Christian artists who:

    • Understand exactly what you’re going through
    • Celebrate your victories as their own
    • Offer wisdom when you face challenges
    • Connect you with opportunities you wouldn’t find alone
    • Walk alongside you in prayer and practical support
    • Inspire you to levels of excellence you hadn’t imagined

    This isn’t just a nice idea—it’s the daily reality for members of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program.

    As Amy Kane Smith experienced: “Being a part of the Created to Thrive group has been a huge benefit to me in my art practice and business… I am taking myself and my art so much more seriously now. I know my work is good, I know what I am capable of and I am going for it.”

    The First Step to Connection

    My friend, your journey doesn’t have to be a solo one anymore. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been creating for years, there’s a place for you in this community of artists who share your values and understand your calling.

    The connections you’ll make, the relationships you’ll build, and the network you’ll develop can—and will—transform not just your art business, but your entire experience as a creative made in the image of God.

    Why wait another day to find your artistic home?

    [Get Started Today for Just $14!]

    I’m cheering you on as you step into the community you’ve been looking for!

    Matt Tommey

    Frequently Asked Questions About Artist Communities

    I’m an introvert – will I feel comfortable in this community? Absolutely! Many of our members identify as introverts who initially felt hesitant about community engagement. Our program is designed to accommodate various comfort levels with connection. You can start by simply observing live sessions, then gradually participate in discussions as you feel ready. Many introverted members share that this community feels different because it’s built on authentic connection rather than superficial networking. You’ll never be pressured to engage in ways that don’t feel right for you.

    What if I live in a remote area far from other artists? The Created to Thrive community is specifically valuable for artists in remote locations. Our global online community means geographical isolation no longer limits your ability to connect with like-minded artists. Many members report that this virtual community actually provides deeper connection than they’ve found locally, because it brings together artists who share both faith and creative passion. Through digital platforms, live video sessions, and optional in-person events, you’ll build meaningful relationships regardless of where you live.

    How is this different from just joining artist groups on social media? While social media groups can provide casual connection, Created to Thrive offers structured, intentional community-building guided by experienced facilitators. Unlike most social media groups, we provide regular live interaction opportunities, facilitated relationship-building, and a shared spiritual foundation. Our community also benefits from professional moderation and purposeful design that moves beyond surface-level interaction to create genuine relationships. Additionally, the focus on Kingdom values creates a uniquely supportive environment where members are genuinely invested in each other’s success.

    Do I need to be at a certain level as an artist to benefit from the community? Not at all. Our community includes artists at every stage of development—from those just beginning their creative journey to established professionals with decades of experience. This diversity is actually one of our greatest strengths, as it creates rich opportunities for multi-level learning and mentorship. Newer artists receive guidance from those further along, while experienced artists often share that teaching others brings fresh insights to their own practice. Whatever your current level, you’ll find both peers and mentors who understand your unique stage of development.

    Explore More About Artist Mentorship Benefits