Creative Block is Real
I know I’ve struggled with creative blocks many times. It’s hard to get out of that rut. Here are a few things to try that can be helpful in generating some ideas.
Two key ideas to keep in mind:
(1) Creativity comes from action- just start doing something, anything!
(2) If you are just super stuck do something else. Sometimes we try too hard and we just need a break. Let your brain process in the background and distract yourself with another activity.
10 Creative Activities to Try
1 – Start With the Basics
Whether it’s drawing or painting try some basic exercises to get you using your supplies. Try some beginner tutorial videos even if you’ve used the medium before. You’d be surprised what you might remember or learn! This is something I need to do more of. Just because I have accomplished this in the past doesn’t mean I can’t go back to the basics and make sure I’m remembering to do the things I’m supposed to do. Check out these exercises I’m trying to brush up my basic skills.
2 – Do a Line Drawing
Pick an object to draw. Grab a sheet of paper and your favorite drawing utensil. Check out the instructions here. The idea is to trace the object with your eyes while not looking at what you are drawing. Your hand should move exactly in sync with your eyes.
3 – Shape Drawing
Have someone doodle some shapes, either ones you recognize or random, made-up ones. Or try it yourself. Then transform the shapes into drawings. Let your mind wander, what does it see when you look at the shapes? Having an art night? Have everyone draw shapes and then pass their shapes to the next person to have them make drawings from them.
4 – Ask a Friend for a Prompt
Have them tell you the first thing that pops into their head. This can be fun because the possibilities are endless. Also, there are no rules! What is your interpretation of their prompt? If someone speaks the words to you “ice cream” would you twist it to mean “I scream” or “eye scream”? Strange example, but you get the idea.
5 – Drawing Prompt Lists
There are so many sources of prompts available. There are social media accounts that offer daily prompts. You can do an internet search for prompt lists. There are even books with prompts and space available to draw. Endless opportunities are at your fingertips!
6 – Coloring Pages
Take a break from trying to produce original work. Relax and color a coloring page. To spice things up, try some different shading. Draw in some textures. How can you personalize the page? Can you make a cute teddy bear take on a different personality?
7 – Redo One of Your Artworks
Redo a piece from when you first took a big interest in drawing or painting. You can try the exact idea you had before or you can put your modern spin on it. The point is to benchmark how far you’ve come. Maybe pick a piece to redo every few years or so and watch your progress bloom!
8 – 100 Faces
This doesn’t have to be faces, it can be animals or plants, or whatever you can find 100 of! This has been a popular exercise in the online art community recently and I can see why. It’s a challenge for sure, but the dedication can help drive you to improve your skills in this area. Maybe pick something you’re not the best at so you can practice. I know faces have always been a struggle for me so I’ll definitely be doing this one, stay tuned for that!
9 – Have an Art Night
Sometimes I’ve gotten the best creative sparks just from having an art night with friends. Seeing their styles and techniques can open your mind to new things. Putting yourself around different energy can really open up your mind to trying something new! Nobody has to be a pro to have an art night. Check out these ideas to try at your next gathering.
10 – Take a Walk
Take a walk through your favorite space. Movement helps the mind be open and curious. Try dancing. Try an interpretive dance to your favorite song. Just some sort of movement that gets you away from your art space for a while.
Here’s What’s Happening Now
Head on over to my journal to stay up to date on what’s happening in my art life. Check out my YouTube for tutorials, creative challenges, product reviews, and more! On Instagram you’ll find the projects I’ve been working on. Find me on Facebook to see what I’ve been up to. Want to take a piece of me home with you? Artwork can be purchased on my shop, Instagram, and Facebook! See you there!
