Navigating Inspiration, Art Blocks, and Self-Reflection
As artists we are always pushing the boundaries of our creativity. It is a journey filled with discovery, emotion, inspiration, and sometimes barriers. We discover new ways to express ourselves, and grow as artists, by breaking through these barriers.
Artistic blocks are a natural part of the creative process
Navigating through them requires a deliberate effort. Being in the flow or getting stuck, are both feelings that happen deep within, and ripple out into our art. That's why it's important to take super good care of ourselves.
I have been having my own struggles recently with creative flow and have been putting into play all of my methods for getting over a creative block. As I write this blog, I am still hard at work trying to get back into my creative state. I want to share with you some of the ways I get inspired, overcome creative obstacles, and get back into my artistic flow.
In my recent interview on the Mind Over Medium podcast, I answered quite a few questions about getting through the tough times in our art, artist blocks, and negative feedback. Be sure to listen if you haven’t already, I promise that there will be something in there that will speak directly to you.
Watch and Learn – Inspiration from Others
Watching other artists create is a big source of inspiration for me. Platforms like YouTube offer short art demonstrations and the opportunity to watch other artists as they create. Observing their techniques not only sparks motivation, but often leads to new ideas for my own art. I have found immersing myself in these visual experiences very helpful, letting the creativity of others ignite the flames of my own artistic inspiration.
What Lights You Up
Understanding what truly lights you up in the realm of creativity is essential. Taking the time to sit in your art space, meditate, and reflect, helps uncover the spark that fuels your passion. For me that means experimenting with mixed media, or journaling on a blank canvas. Aligning with what brings you joy is a powerful step toward reconnecting with your creative flow.
Preparing the Canvas, Mind, and Space
Engaging in activities that may seem less exciting, such as tidying up your art space or preparing base layers on canvases, can surprisingly, move the needle from uninspired to inspired. These activities create a good environment for creativity, making sure everything is ready when inspiration strikes.
A word of warning, from first hand experience. You cannot usually force your way back into creative flow! I wish !! I have the bad habit of deciding to ‘fix’ completed artwork when my confidence is not solid. I don’t feel good about my art and want to improve it. Making impulsive changes to your art when not in the flow is definitely something I do and always regret. It's crucial to approach such moments with a mindful heart, understanding that it's okay to take time away and acknowledging that confidence may need time to rebuild.
Inspiration cards
I will sometimes use Inspiration cards as my starting point—they serve as gentle reminders to help me feel inspired and connected to my truth. Affirmations, in particular, hold a special place in my heart. Sometimes, I write these affirmations directly onto my art, a practice that uplifts my spirits, especially when my inner critic is casting its shadow.
Take a break!
One affirmation that resonates deeply with me is a simple yet powerful reminder: "Take a break!"
Taking care of ourselves extends beyond the mental and emotional realms; it encompasses our physical well-being too. When we make art, we can get stuck, literally, in our bodies. There are tensions, stiffness and stress that can come from sitting too long in one position, doing the same gesture over and over again. Sometimes we can be so focused on what we're doing, that we push through until pain and fatigue force us to stop. And that's not good!
Regular breaks, whether a nature walk or a cup of tea, serve as rejuvenation for me. Cleaning brushes or engaging in simple activities during these breaks not only relieves physical strain but also provides a mental reset, allowing me to return to my work feeling more relaxed and with renewed focus, so I can look at my work with fresh eyes.
The Power of Just Doing It
One practice that has consistently proven effective for me is the simple act of "just doing it." Even during a brief creative session, making a few marks on a canvas or experimenting with colours can gradually bring back the artistic flow. The key is not to overwhelm yourself but to rebuild confidence gradually through consistent, small steps.
As we navigate the inspiration, and the artistic challenges, we cannot forget the importance of nurturing our inner artist. The journey is as much about self-care as it is about creation.
By creating an inviting and inspiring creative space, incorporating affirmations, and prioritizing breaks for physical and mental rejuvenation, we strengthen the foundation of our artist self. In the fluidity of creativity, these practices become the threads that weave together a resilient, inspired, and thriving inner artist.
What works for me personally may not be what works for you. You may have your own unique methods of self-care. The key is to be open to experimentation and to acknowledge that nurturing our inner artist is an ongoing process. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but by exploring different approaches and pushing through mental, physical, and time-related barriers, we pave the way for a more fulfilling and sustainable artistic journey.
As I share my experiences and insights, I hope you will explore your own paths, finding inspiration in the ordinary and discovering the magic within the creative process.
