Finding Community
Often times the largest change for graduating creatives is not the loss of access to software but transitioning from their undergraduate cohort of creatives to finding community outside of their programs or departments. Here are some ideas on how to establish network of support to keep your creative practice energized.
Start an alumni Group NOW!
One way to maintain the community you already have is to be proactive and discuss staying in touch with your fellow cohort. You already know each other's work, and are at the same milestone in your creative pursuits, so this can be really useful. Try:
Starting a group text chain, to reach out to when promoting work or opportunities
Make a private facebook group where everyone can share opportunities or ask for support or feedback
Share an Instagram account, where each member can post new work to that account
Consider applying to group shows, if and when the work makes sense together
Find Groups Online and Locally!
Facebook
While facebook may not appeal to younger creatives for a variety of reasons, one thing it does well is produce and support online communities through groups, including ones for creatives! Check out a few below or search for your own groups:
Not a fan of Facebook? We don't blame you! Instead try:
public slack channels
discord
reddit
Finding Local Groups
Many recent grads move back home or to a different city after graduating, which can be difficult.
Try finding out about local groups by visiting galleries, non-profit art orgs, or libraries in your area.
You can usually find good information by visiting your town or city's chamber of commerce for listings of arts related organizations.
Find a facebook group that is local to your area
Start your own group. Some places may not have a well established art scene, so you may need to take on a leadership role and establish a group of your own!
Joining a Studio or Hackerspace!
This can be difficult at times as its often require additional funds in the form of rent or membership fees, but in addition to coming with built in communities, they can also provide access to technology (laser cutters, 3D printers, screen-printing facilites, etc) in hackerspaces or space to make in studios, along with opportunities to learn to new skills via workshops. Also, depending on the studio or hackerspace, the membership fees can be less than you might expect! Check out this list of hackerspaces or search for makerspaces in your area.