Inspiration isn’t always a lightning bolt. Sometimes it’s a slow burn—or a whisper. And sometimes, it’s not there at all.
There are days when I don’t feel like painting. I might be tired, distracted, or simply not in the right headspace. But I’ve learned over time that I don’t need to feel inspired in order to create. In fact, the act of showing up in the studio is often what brings the inspiration back.
Changing my medium, if only for a little while, can help me to move forward on pieces when I may feel stuck.
When I’m feeling stuck, I give myself permission to work without pressure. I might play around with colour combinations, flip through old sketchbooks, or organize my materials. These small actions often get the wheels turning again.
Taking a walk outside helps, too—especially in the woods where I live. I pay attention to shapes, lines, the way the light hits the leaves. I don’t go looking for something to paint; I just notice.
Sometimes my studio moves outside - studio dogs and all!
Other times, I look at the work of artists I admire—not to copy, but to remind myself that there are endless ways to see the world. Books, galleries, even a trip to the hardware store can plant ideas.
Inspiration can come from so many places in my day to day adventures.
Most importantly, I try not to force it. Rest is part of the process. So is boredom. So is doubt. It’s all part of the rhythm of making art. The key, for me, is to keep showing up in gentle ways until something clicks again—and it usually does.
1 comment
I agree 100%! Even when I have a list of things to do in the studio I feel dragged by the commitment, even if self imposed. I find that looking at previous projects, and my ‘mistake’ pile, I feel inspired, loosen up and remind myself of the privilege and process of it all. Thanks for sharing.