The Artist's Way

A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity

By: Julia Cameron

Narrated by: Julia Cameron

Length: 3 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

The Artist's Way is the seminal book on the subject of creativity. An international best seller, millions have found it to be an invaluable guide to living the artist's life. Still as vital today, or perhaps even more so, than it was when it was first published one decade ago, it is a powerfully provocative and inspiring work.

In a new introduction to the book, Julia Cameron reflects upon the impact of The Artist's Way and describes the work she has done during the last decade and the new insights into the creative process that she has gained. Updated and expanded, this anniversary edition reframes The Artist's Way for a new century.

©1997 Julia Cameron (P)1997, 2005 Penguin Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"This book has been around for a long time, and I hope it sticks around forever. It guides the reader through a fascinating (and fun) 12-week-long program of exercises and explorations that help loosen up one’s artistic self. It takes you on a journey that will cost you nothing (aside from the guidebook) and it brings much insight, gently helping you see what is holding you back, and showing you how to move forward. Three times in the last decade I've committed to doing The Artist's Way's program, and each time I've learned something important and surprising about myself and my work. Just to show how influential it's been to me - the first time I did the program, I had decided by end of it that I wanted to 1) travel to Italy and learn Italian, 2) Go to an Ashram in India, and 3) Return to Indonesia to study with the old medicine man I'd once met there. We all know what THAT decision led to.... Without The Artist's Way, there would have been no Eat, Pray, Love.” (Elizabeth Gilbert)

“The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron is not exclusively about writing - it is about discovering and developing the artist within whether a painter, poet, screenwriter or musician - but it is a lot about writing. If you have always wanted to pursue a creative dream, have always wanted to play and create with words or paints, this book will gently get you started and help you learn all kinds of paying-attention techniques; and that, after all, is what being an artist is all about. It’s about learning to pay attention.” (Anne Lamott, Mademoiselle)

“The premise of the book is that creativity and spirituality are the same thing, they come from the same place. And we were created to use this life to express our individuality, and that over the course of a lifetime that gets beaten out of us. [The Artist's Way] helped me put aside my fear and not worry about whether the record would be commercial.” (Grammy award-winning singer Kathy Mattea)

Every person who cares should read!

Listened many times and will many more. Each time I hear something differently and new to me.

Not only for artist.

I really liked the gentle pace in which the author presented each section. The exercises are simple and impactful. This is the kind of book that when you listen to it again you seem to hear something new. It gave me permission to feel what I feel and know that I am evolving toward my true self. I recommend this book to ANYONE that feels this book is only for artist. I will be promoting this and using these tips for myself and for my clients. Julia, thank you again for creating a very sacred space in listening to this audio. #WhatsYourVibe? #MyFabulousFifties #PeaceWithinPromotesPeace

Strength in numbers

With all the drama of 2020, I sensed a growing internal need for personal change, and that urge wasn't gonna take no for an answer. I mentioned to a friend that I had this urge to change some things in my life and was considering doing the 12-week Artist's Way course. It just so happened that she had been thinking similarly. Within a week's time, 5 other women friends expressed a desire to join us. That was early October. Tonight, December the 20th, we completed the 12th week of the course during our last 2-hour weekly Zoom gathering. . We aren't the same women who started the course back in October. Our individual evolution has been amazing. As her end of the course project, one member produced and presented to the group a 2021 calendar of her nature photos. She's begun other projects with her photography. Her akashic reading practice has taken off. Another member pulled out a manuscript she had begun to write and illustrate. Another member is in the process of converting her in-person workshops to on-lime presentations. Oh, by the way, all these women are in their 70's. It's been a rewarding experience perfect for these uncertain and challenging days of mass political chaos and the threat of COVID-19. We all have a renewed focus, purpose, and the strength of our awakened artist. 2021 is looking hopeful thanks to The Artist's Way.

Life changing book.

Put in the practice. Do the discipline. If only just the morning pages. This book opens doors.

Just what I needed!

I heard Julia Cameron speak in Bristol England. 2018 and she received a resounding 4 minute standing ovation - there were tears in the eyes of many attendees whose life had been inspired by her body of work. This book was no exception - it is a true gem! Her chapter in overcoming blocks was life-altering for this writer. If you purchase one book on creativity or writing this year make it this one!

Read and invite healing

Julia Cannon does a great job at describing the pitfalls of an Artist but not only in describing but also giving us tools to get out of those pits we have fallen into.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who feels stagnant in their creative efforts or anyone who seeks to rekindle their child like spirit.

Life Changing!

Incredible work and outlook! Listened to it 3x now and still going! So grateful for her work! 🤍

WONDERFUL!!!

Loved every minute of it! Will most likely listen to it again!

The author has a nurturing way in her delivery of the book.

It’s great!

it's good but not great...

What did you love best about The Artist's Way?

It does reinforce the same platitudes of hard work, open mindedness, and embracing change that are ubiquitous in these kind of books.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Artist's Way?

She had a good quote about the universe being prodigal in its assistance while we are miserly to accept it.

Which character – as performed by Julia Cameron – was your favorite?

She was fine as an orator.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

No. I was insensate.

Any additional comments?

My biggest gripe was the litany of "homework" assignments that the author foists upon the reader. Just too much of that. It stressed me out just thinking of all the things she suggested. If you want real motivation I recommend The War of Art instead.

very helpful

It was a good book, I was pleased to find out there were alot of things she mentioned that I was already doing on my own but she offered alto of in site into some perspectives I had not taken into account and gave me some good ideas.