What is Daring Doodle Crew?

Daring Doodle Crew is an ongoing series of no-cost doodling meetups, hosted virtually and in-person by me here in Phoenix.

There’s something fun and freeing about doodling. Doodling is something we can ALL do – for ourselves, for laughs, to relax, or to share. And if letting our imaginations run wild with others sounds weird, it’s probably because it has nothing to do with “social” media. And that’s the point.

Questions = contact Eric here.

(Please note: Children must be accompanied by a parent.)

Join the mailing list to be notified about meetups in advance.

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. I think doodling together and chatting and just relaxing while being creative is 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.

    NOTE: This is a public-facing meetup series, intended to offer a safe space for creatives of all ages. However, 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 Daring Doodle Crew mailing list for notifications on each month’s meetup.

  • First, signup for the Daring Doodle Crew mailing list. Then contact Eric to let him know you’d like the Zoom login instructions. He’ll send them to you!

    During Zoom meetups, Eric will have some drawing prompts for those looking for ‘em. Sometimes he’ll share some tips and tricks. Most times it’s just chill drawing times. Attendees can be on video, just voice chat, or just send messages through the live chat. Or just watch in silent mode. Up to you!

  • 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.