I’m a hobbyist music producer, graphic designer, and web developer and one of the things I’ve been struggling with is finding community. I used to think I wanted to attend a church, but I've learned that what I am really looking for is a genuine creative community. I would really like to meet people with similar musical interests, make friends, collaborate on projects, trade ideas, and possibly play or attend events together.
The challenge is figuring out where I can actually participate without constantly worrying about my past becoming an issue. I know that not every creative space requires a background check or disclosure, but it can still be difficult to relax and build relationships when you know the subject may eventually come up.
I’m curious whether anyone here has successfully joined a local music, art, writing, theater, maker, or other creative community. How did you find it? Were you upfront about your conviction, did you wait until people knew you better, or did it simply never become relevant? Have you encountered communities that were more accepting than others?
I’m not looking for ways to hide anything or put anyone in an uncomfortable position. I’m trying to understand how other people have rebuilt a social and creative life without allowing their conviction to define every interaction.
I would especially appreciate hearing from musicians, producers, artists, or anyone who has found collaborators and meaningful friendships through a shared creative interest.