Sometimes, as an artist, distraction is inevitable. Everyday situations, whether good or bad, often pull us away from our creative pursuits. Work, house chores, self-care, school, errands, appointments, or even a trip to the grocery store can chip away at our time and focus. And that’s perfectly okay.
We often find ourselves drawn to other interests too—family outings, video games, skating, movies, music, or photography. The list goes on, and that variety can enrich our lives in many ways.
But why share this?
It’s important to remember that amid the hustle and bustle, we must keep engaging in the things that bring us joy. Life's less enjoyable tasks shouldn’t overshadow our passions. Don’t let the overwhelming nature of daily responsibilities deter you from pursuing your artistic interests.
Even if it’s just for 5, 10, or 30 minutes a day, carve out that time for what you love. If you enjoy building things with wood, take a moment to start a project. If working on cars excites you, spend some time tinkering.
The key is to resist the urge to beat yourself up over a lack of time. Instead, prioritize it. Make time for the things that inspire you, and allow yourself to enjoy the process. Your creativity deserves that attention.
Sketchbook 2024 1 of 2 →
Over the past year, working in two identical sketchbooks has proven to be a transformative and enlightening experience. Completing the first sketchbook marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey, particularly considering my history of leaving previous sketchbooks unfinished or misplaced. Some pages reflect feelings of pessimism and uncertainty; however, the underlying intention has always been to convey encouragement—a complex nuance that can often get lost amid changing emotions.
Initially, I harbored doubts that these sketchbooks might also end up neglected. Yet this time has been refreshingly different. A steady rhythm to my artistic practice has emerged, characterized by dedicated sessions ranging from five to thirty minutes most days. This approach has allowed for gradual progression toward eventual completion. Chipping away at each page has transformed from a chore into an engaging journey of discovery and expression. When a page feels unsatisfactory, the instinct to jump to another offers a refreshing sense of exploration and creativity.
Flipping through previously untouched pages reveals new opportunities for artistic expression while fostering a deeper connection to completed work. Each choice made and each line drawn carries significance, contributing to a larger narrative. This ongoing process has unveiled a unique perspective on personal growth and artistic expression, reinforcing the immense value of persistence and intentionality in creativity.
Creating art should always be a joyful and fulfilling endeavor, not a burdensome task. It’s essential to tune into your feelings and acknowledge when inspiration is lacking. When the process of creating shifts from passion to obligation, it can stifle the very creativity and enjoyment that art is meant to inspire.
Giving yourself permission to step back during these times can be freeing. This pause allows for moments of self-reflection and observation, and it can provide the necessary space for rest. In these intervals, you may discover fresh perspectives and ideas that were previously obscured by the pressure to produce.
Embrace these breaks; they are not a sign of failure but rather a natural part of the creative journey. This mindset can reinvigorate your artistic practice and ultimately lead to more authentic and fulfilling work.
As you continue to navigate your creative path, remember that these moments of rest and reflection can enhance your process. In the coming weeks, I’ll be wrapping up the completion of my second book, which will delve deeper into these themes. I look forward to sharing it on my website soon.
Art ages like wine over time it gets better
Art ages like wine; with time, it has the potential to improve. No matter how you perceive your creations—whether painting, writing, music, or any other form—resist the urge to discard them. Instead, consider sharing your art with friends or family. You might be surprised by the joy your work brings to someone else.
Alternatively, take a step outside your immediate circle. Leave your art on a park bench, at a local coffee shop, or anywhere in your community. By doing this, you create an opportunity for someone who might appreciate it, bringing unexpected happiness into their lives.
Remember, art is subjective. What feels unworthy to you could resonate deeply with another person. So, hold onto your creations, for they may find value in the eyes of another, just as fine wine reveals its character over the years.
List of ways to lean into discomfort with your self while making art
1. Embrace Imperfection: Allow yourself to create without the pressure of perfection. Accept that mistakes are part of the process and can lead to unexpected discoveries.
2. Explore New Mediums: Experiment with materials and techniques that are outside your usual practice. This can challenge your comfort zone and inspire creativity.
3. Set Time Constraints: Give yourself a limited amount of time to complete an artwork. The urgency can push you to make decisions quickly and instinctively.
4. Create with Restrictions: Set specific limitations, such as a restricted color palette or a singular subject matter. Constraints can provoke innovative solutions.
5. Invite Feedback: Share your work with others, especially before it feels “finished.” Constructive criticism can be uncomfortable but ultimately beneficial for growth.
6. Art Journaling: Maintain a journal to document your artistic thoughts and feelings. This practice can expose vulnerabilities and clarify your artistic identity.
7. Participate in Workshops: Attend workshops that focus on techniques or concepts you are unfamiliar with. Being in a learning environment can create discomfort but also promote skill development.
8. Dare to Fail: Intentionally create art that you believe might not work out. Embrace the possibility of failure as a stepping stone toward improvement.
9. Derive Inspiration from Discomfort: Use your struggles or challenges as subject matter for your artwork. Channeling these feelings can lead to deeply personal and resonant pieces.
10. Change Your Environment: Alter your usual workspace by creating art in a different location. A new setting can influence your perspective and creative process.
11. Work in Public Spaces: Create art in cafes, parks, or other public areas. This openness can provoke self-awareness and invite spontaneous interactions.
12. Document Your Process: Take photos or write about your artistic process, focusing on your feelings of discomfort. Reflecting on this documentation can foster growth.
13. Connect with Other Artists: Engage with a community of artists who push each other to step outside their comfort zones. Collaboration and discussion can heighten your awareness of discomfort in creative practice.
14. Reflect on Your Journey: Regularly reflect on your artistic progress, noting moments of discomfort and the lessons learned from them. Journaling or discussing with peers can enhance this reflection.
15. Facilitate Open Discussions: Organize or join critique sessions where vulnerability is encouraged. Talking about your challenges can help normalize discomfort and promote resilience.
Making Time for Art
In our fast-paced world, finding time for art can often feel like a daunting task. Whether you're a professional artist or someone who enjoys creative hobbies, the demands of everyday life frequently take precedence. However, setting aside time for art is not only essential for personal fulfillment but also crucial for creative growth.
Prioritize Your Passion
To make time for art, it's important to recognize its significance in your life. Consider the moments that inspired you to pursue creativity. Reflect on how art provides an outlet for expression and relaxation. Prioritizing your passion can help shift your perspective, making it easier to carve out time in your schedule.
Schedule Creativity
One effective strategy is to treat your art time as an appointment. Block out specific days or hours dedicated to your creative practice and treat them as non-negotiable commitments. Whether it's a daily sketch, a weekly painting session, or monthly visits to an art class, having a set schedule can create a sense of accountability and help establish consistency.
Create a Dedicated Space
Setting up a designated art space can also encourage more frequent engagement with your creativity. Whether it's a corner of a room, a home studio, or simply a portable art kit, having a space where your materials are readily available makes it easier to dive into your work. This accessible environment can lower the barriers to starting and help keep your creative flow uninterrupted.
Embrace Short Sessions
If finding large blocks of time feels impossible, consider breaking your art practice into shorter sessions. Even 10 to 20 minutes a day can be productive. In those moments, you can sketch, experiment with techniques, or journal about your ideas. These small increments can accumulate over time, allowing for meaningful progress without the pressure of lengthy commitments.
Find Inspiration Everywhere
Incorporating art into your daily life doesn’t always require traditional materials. Inspiration can be found in nature, during your commute, or even while cooking. Keep a sketchbook or a digital note handy to capture ideas as they arise. This practice can help you stay connected to your creative side, even when time is tight.
Cultivate a Supportive Community
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can bolster your commitment to making time for art. Engage with local art groups, online forums, or workshops. Sharing your experiences, seeking advice, and participating in collaborative projects can motivate you and provide fresh inspiration. A community can serve as a vital source of encouragement to stick to your artistic pursuits.
Reflect and Adjust
Lastly, it's beneficial to periodically reflect on your artistic journey. Assess what is working and what isn’t regarding your scheduling and practice. Life changes can affect your ability to create, so be open to adjusting your approach. Flexibility can help maintain your engagement with art and ensure that it continues to be a rewarding part of your life.
By prioritizing your creative practice, scheduling dedicated time, and embracing the flexibility of your art journey, you can make space for the artistic expression that enriches your life. In doing so, you not only nurture your creativity but also create a fulfilling relationship with art that can last a lifetime.
Branching out
Learning how to use the blog feature. So here is a little sketch i did this week