What is this?

Daring Doodle Crew is a series of live and virtual meetups for creatives of all kinds who love to doodle.

There’s something fun and freeing about doodling. It’s something we ALL can do – for ourselves, for laughs, to relax, or to share. And you never really know what a doodle might turn into.

If you wanna let your imagination run wild with some other doodlers, consider joining. There’s no fees or apps to use. In fact, there’s no formal “social media” presence planned for this group. Just creative people connecting for real. I know right? Different is good!

–E

Questions = contact Eric here.

Please note: Doodlers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.

Virtual Meetups

Zoom vs livestreaming online – I’ve thought about doing a livestream on a platform like Twitch or YouTube. But I want to experiment with a more direct approach. It really appeals to me to do something virtual for folks who can’t meet in-person OR who live in other states, but in a more intimate way. So, I’m arranging these Zoom meetups and we’ll see how things go!

Virtual meetup format – When we meet on Zoom, I spend a few minutes at the start lining up what I might work on or ideas I’m playing with. Those who wanna talk can do so over microphones or in the live chat window. Or people can just watch silently with the Zoom serving as background noise for them while they doodle.

Behind-the-scenes – If and when folks ask, I’m happy to share background stuff about my studio, process, resources, tools, inspirations, etc. I’ve been involved with the business of creative nonsense for a while, and I’m happy to share!

In-Person Meetups

Phoenix and surrounding cities – Meetups are organized in advance at various locations throughout metropolitan Phoenix and surrounding cities. Some special in-person events will be held in Flagstaff and Tucson as the group grows a bit more. In the early stages I’m keeping things pretty close to home.

Why in-person? – I’m really fatigued with social media. To be really transparent, it’s just become a grind. A distraction that takes me away from being me and sometimes threatens to put me in a state of constant over-analyzation of myself and my creations. I want less of that and more “realness” in my interactions with others. I’m guessing some of you feel the same.

Real connection – The word “connection” has been used online to sell lots of myths around what socializing is. Real connection is not a DM. It’s not a like. A follow. It happens when we humanize each other through shared experiences. Doodling together and chatting and/or just relaxing while being creative – that’s real.

Q & As

  • Anyone who likes to doodle, draw, sketch, scribble, etc. But mainly this group is for people who are excellent to others. That means kindness and consideration while being creatively awesome.

    Please Note: This is a public-facing meetup series, intended to offer a safe space for creatives of all ages. Children must be accompanied by parents at all times virtually and / or in-person.

  • All meetups are organized by Eric at no-cost to attendees. Donations are accepted from those who would like to contribute but there’s no fees or dues collected!

  • In-person meetups are held throughout the valley at tea houses, coffee shops, bakeries, parks, and other cool places that offer a relaxed environment. Join the mailing list for notifications on each month’s meetup(s).

  • Zoom meetups are relaxed and attendees can doodle at their own pace. Eric will likely have some drawing prompts he’ll be using. He’ll share tips and tricks if/when asked. Members can be on video or just send messages through the live chat. Or just watch in silent mode. Up to you!

    BTW: While Eric will greet everyone when starting the livestream, he will not call people out to speak or chime in. We’re after a safe space to be creative without folks feeling pressure to talk or share.

  • Nope!

  • Thanks for your interest and for daring to let your creativity shine! Sign up for the Daring Doodle Crew mailing list and you’ll be notified about when meetups are happening in advance.