Julie Israel

But what is a “workshop” blog, you ask? Grab a stool.

The truth is: As a traditionally-published author who also loves art — making it, consuming it, and ever exploring related outlets — I’ve long felt that my blog about writing needed to incorporate…hold onto your butts for this…more art(s). Why?

Well, writers know that everything tends to come back to writing: in story inspiration, format/genre(s), voice, setting, plot points, tropes, in who our characters are and what they do…and most especially in our own mental health and well-being, which means better performance. Everyone needs art(s), hobbies, and the things in life which are not about survival, but joy and discovery — and that goes doubly, triply for creators. Creators pull from themselves — their own library of experience and influences — to make. They must feed the well that they draw from.

And so, after much deliberation, this little writing blog adopts a theme: creative process.

And what better metaphor for “process” than a workshop? A painter’s studio, the band or woodworker’s garage, an attic for sewing… (As I write, I’m recalling “writer who draws” Austin Kleon’s deliciously messy two-desk situation): Maker spaces are magic. A confluence of tools and inspiration, they are a constant state of flux and expression. In the workshop, mediums collide. In the workshop, happy accidents are repeated ones. In the workshop, play is queen, half a dozen projects lie out at a given moment, and sidequests beget sidequests beget main ones. In true alchemical fashion, the workshop is where diverse creative input transforms into output, be it novels, a designer dress, or your greatest coffee table to date.

In short: I wanted my writing blog to save space for play — and with its penchant for piled arts and projects, “workshop” fit the bill perfectly. I love that it even doubles as a verb for feedback and change, and recognition that our art — oh yes, hi, and this blog — is itself an ongoing work-in-progress.

But what can you actually expect at Arts & Ends?

A combination of posts about writing books, art and side projects, and the creative life. They may not follow a perfect pattern (e.g., when I receive an edit letter for a manuscript, I may suddenly drop a few posts on revision), but I will aim for a rough 1:1:1 ratio, if not one that gently favors writing, publishing, and books.

Quality over quantity. As an author, I tend to go through seasons of intense work related to my active book(s). This commitment tends to backburner other projects (including this blog). Therefore, at present posts don’t follow a regular schedule, but will be published as they’re ready. If I’ve learned anything as a creator, it’s not to burn yourself out batching content you don’t love. I may not blog frequently or even regularly, but every post will be crafted with care and passion.

A rich variety of topics, served in different iterations. A taste of things I’ll cover here:

• Writing. Obviously. Over time, I intend to share my take on all the parts of writing a book, from conception to first draft to everything after. But I’ll also write about writing in general, and offer insights to hone your craft and editorial skills.
• Art. As I continue to explore and learn myself, I’ll share bite-sized lessons on basics and techniques, and profile different mediums.
• Hands-on projects. During the pandemic, I developed a deep appreciation for the things that make our spaces joyful and expressive as we are. So, many of my side projects are interiors and décor-oriented, from plants and repair and magpie styling/curation to DIY, including making your own perfect pieces when you can’t find just what you’re looking for. Will get into tools and tutorials here, with the occasional fun extras like crafts, organization hacks, and homemade gift ideas.
• Recommendation round-up. Books, music, viewing, podcasts, etc. I’m loving. I also love finding unexpected connections from one format to another, and may share the odd pairing (e.g., “If you loved the show/video game Fallout, read Wool (adult) or The City of Ember (MG).”)
• Fashion/personal style. Oddly enough, I’ve only really started loving getting dressed in my 30s. Join me for some of the results and hot tips, including on finding better pieces, the art of putting together an outfit, and developing your personal style.
• The creative life. Resources, musings, and other miscellany not covered above!

Series potential. As this blog finds its feet, I’ll take readership and feedback into account for any segments you want to see more of. And of course, my inbox is always open for writing/book-related questions, or suggestions for topics to cover.

Is there anything you’d like to see here? Let me know! And remember to follow/subscribe to catch my posts, or bookmark and check back at your convenience. Happy making!