Art block is the bane of every artist’s existence – it’s those moments where you can’t seem to find inspiration, and everything you produce doesn’t feel quite right. While it can be frustrating to feel like your muse has abandoned you, that’s rarely the issue. It’s more common to discover that your problem is due to a lack of momentum. Here are some tips to help you overcome artist’s block and get back to work.
- Just Make Something
Initially, this might seem counterproductive – why bother making things when you’re not up to it, or they might not turn out? But continuing to work when you feel uninspired is one of the best ways to get back in the game. A doodle, a streak on the canvas, or a half-finished sculpture might be just what you need to get the ball rolling again.
- Try a Change of Scenery
If you’re trying to be creative in the same environment all the time, your brain can get fatigued and desensitized to the sensations of that place. If you’re feeling uninspired, take a walk or bring your sketchbook to the local coffee shop. Just get out of your normal space and see what’s out there that could catch your eye.
- Enter a Competition
While this might seem counterintuitive, competitions can be fantastic for breaking out of an art block. They provide a concrete goal to work toward and a sense of urgency to complete something. Some competitions even have prompts or themes attached to them for some extra inspiration. Even if you don’t win, a competition might be just what you need.
- Get a Tutorial
Even if you’ve been creating art for a long time, there’s always room to learn. If you’re feeling a bit dull and uninspired, try reading an art textbook or watching a video tutorial for some inspiration. You could even sign up for a local class – it provides a change of pace and a reason to create. You might even learn something new!