What’s Next for Themes at Next Wave

When we launched our very first monthly theme in September (Fresh Starts), we were so excited to try something new for our community: a creative spark to inspire writing, art, music, projects, and more. Our goal has never been to even use the word "deadlines," but to offer inspiration and give you a chance to connect your work with a shared idea.

Now that we’ve gone through our first theme, we’ve realized something important: creativity doesn’t always fit into a calendar. Especially with school, activities, and life picking up this fall, monthly roundups can start to feel like pressure—whether it be because you have something already done, but don't have the time to hit "submit," or you want to create something, but your schedule is just too tight. Not the kind of energy we want Next Wave to bring.

That’s why, starting in October, we’re shifting how themes work.

Here’s what’s changing (and what’s not):

• Instead of monthly roundups, we’ll be sharing themes and prompts as open-ended inspiration.

• You can use them whenever you’d like—no pressure, no “end date.”

• If you submit something inspired by a theme or prompt, we’ll note it when it's up on The Wave or on The Arts or The Crafts.

• You can still submit projects outside of themes—that has never changed.

Think of it this way: themes aren’t disappearing—they’re becoming creative sparks you can tap into anytime. This way, Next Wave stays a space of encouragement, and not pressure.

We’re really grateful to everyone who jumped into Fresh Starts with us—it helped shape this new direction. And we’re even more excited for what’s ahead. October's list of themes and prompts is right around the corner (any guesses what it might be?), and we can’t wait to see what you’ll create this month and in the future.

And don't worry, monthly themes and round-ups will be back in the future!

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Reminder: Submissions are always open. Visit our submissions page to share your work anytime.

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