Curating Connection: The Magic of Gathering the Right People

“Magic happens when the right people, setting, and intention all come together.”

I recently attended a training session for Late Nite Art in Sonoma, California, led by visionary and Virtual Campfire family member Adam Rosendahl. It was unlike anything I have ever experienced - a powerful blend of music, art, food, place, and authentic connection. The curation of people was so powerfully intentional, the atmosphere meticulously crafted, and the result was nothing short of magic - something we coined as "fantastic forces" coming together. This kind of magic emerges when the right people gather in the right space, surrounded by experiences that unlock creativity and connection.

Late Nite Art was a reminder of the profound power of gathering. It wasn't about having the most talented artists or leaders in the room or finding the most intellectually stimulating discussion topics - it was about curating a space that invited people to be present, curious, and open. The magic came from the diversity of people, each adding a unique voice and perspective alongside the shared sensory experience. This wasn't just about the art or learning facilitation skills; it was an exploration of the human spirit fueled by the seamless mix of multiple artistic modalities.

Reflecting on this experience, I can't help but think about the books Your Brain On Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross and The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker. Both books emphasize how deeply we are shaped by our environments and by the way we come together with others. In Your Brain On Art, Susan and Ivy explore the science behind how art and creativity impact our brain - how they help us access emotions, think in new ways, and foster connections that go beyond words. At Late Nite Art, I felt the truth of these insights: the carefully curated experience unlocked emotions and ideas that are often inaccessible in our daily lives.

In The Art of Gathering, Priya Parker talks about how the success of any gathering comes down to the purpose behind it and the thoughtfulness of how it is structured. It's not about the fanciest venue or the most sophisticated catering - it's about making intentional choices that allow people to feel at ease, to engage, and to be seen. Our gathering exemplified this perfectly. Every element - the setting in Sonoma, the warmth of the lighting, the communal food, the soundscape - was designed to put participants in a state of openness and creativity.

We all know the feeling of attending an event that is just "okay" compared to one that is simply transformational. What makes the difference is not necessarily the content but how the space is held and how the people are curated. The magic comes from the intersections - the way one person's story ignites another's memory, the way a piece of music sparks creativity, the way a shared meal builds trust. This experience reminded me that creating "fantastic forces" is about inviting different elements to dance together. And yes, we definitely danced!

Here are some ways we can all embrace the power of connection in our gatherings:

Curate with Purpose: Whether you're organizing a dinner, a meeting, or a workshop, be intentional about who you invite. Think about what each person brings to the experience - what perspectives, energies, or stories might collide to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

Use Multi-Sensory Elements: Think beyond just conversation. Music, visuals, food, and even the scent of a space can help people feel comfortable, evoke memories, and open up new dimensions of connection. A curated playlist or even a shared dish can change the entire energy of a room.

Set the Tone for Vulnerability: Encourage people to bring their whole selves. This means creating a space that feels safe enough for vulnerability. Share a story or ask a question that invites introspection and watch how it changes the depth of interactions.

Be Present: In an age of constant distraction, one of the greatest gifts we can offer others is our full attention. Whether you are leading the gathering or simply participating, make a commitment to being present and engaged.

Gathering with intention - curating people, experiences, and the environment - creates something truly magical. In a world that often feels disconnected, finding ways to gather meaningfully can be revolutionary. Magic isn’t just something we experience in special, once-in-a-while events - it's something we can create in our everyday lives whenever we choose to be intentional about how we connect with others.