The power of a strong container: Supporting creativity and growth

Years ago, when I began teaching, I struggled with structure. I envisioned classes that were free and spontaneous, where everyone could fully express themselves. To explore this idea, I experimented with running a class that was as “loose” as possible. It didn’t take long to discover that this approach didn’t work. Without structure, the class lacked focus, direction, and support. That’s when I realized the importance of having a strong container.

The Importance of Containers

In both teaching and life, a sturdy container is essential. It’s what provides the foundation for growth, expression, and creativity. Think of it this way:

• When we cook soup, we need a sturdy pot to hold it.
• When we raise a family, we need a safe, solid home.
• When we create or express something new, we need a strong, supportive environment.

A container is anything that holds and supports us. It gives shape, structure, and safety to our ideas, projects, and daily lives. Our homes are containers, as are our family relationships, friendships, neighborhoods, and communities. Even our work can serve as a container, nurturing and supporting our creative inspirations. Without a container, we lack the support needed to bring something new into being.

The Art of Organizing Truth

Eric Booth, in The Everyday Work of Art, writes:

“The work of art is any process of becoming concentric with some inherent truth and pulling things into some order; it is the process of organizing truth around a personal nucleus.”

To “pull things into order,” as Booth suggests, we need a container. It holds the space for us to organize our ideas, connect with truth, and create something meaningful.

Nurturing and Inspiring Containers

I like to think of containers as not just functional but also nurturing and inspiring. For my own creative work, containers often take the form of things that spark joy and creativity: browsing through art and design books, wandering through cafes and art festivals, or exploring fun clothing shops like Anthropologie.

For creative work, the container isn’t only external—it’s also internal. Attending to and nurturing my inner creative experience is just as important as creating a supportive outer environment.

So, what containers are holding and supporting you? Whether it’s your home, a community group, or a cherished routine, a strong container can make all the difference in your creative process and daily life.

Anthropologie store