Ways to Fix the Dreaded Curse of Artist's Block

Artist’s block, we all suffer from it from time to time. This old “Far Side” cartoon by Gary Larson has always been a favorite of mine.

Ironically, the talented cartoonist dreaded artist’s block of his own, and retired the ‘Far Side’ cartoon series back in 1995 because he feared he was starting to be repetitive and wanted to avoid becoming a declining cartoonist.

Here are a few ideas to help you fix the dreaded curse of artist’s block!

When I go ‘blank’ or need to refuel my own artistic inspiration, I open up my file cabinet where I have collected folders full of scrap photos. I also enjoy surfing images on the web.
I love to use Pinterest as a way to bookmark the sites and photos that inspire me! For example, here is my Pinterest file, Art that Inspires me. – it really inspires me!
I also use Instagram and Pixlr http://pixlr.com/express as a way to manipulate my own boring photos and turn them into much more interesting images that give me more inspiration!
Getting outside and into nature is a very important part of my creative process. I know this strategy works for others. It can be a simple walk in a park, or a hike up a mountain. Getting in touch with the ‘child within’ is important to allow yourself to explore and wander!
It is important to create an environment that is conducive to creating. Many artists don’t have their own studios, so it is important to carve out a space of their own! Having a creative space will help get those juices flowing…
Obviously keeping a sketchbook is a great way to inspire. But, another ‘trick’ that helps is writing. That’s one reason why I love to blog. It helps open up my creativity in ways I hadn’t thought of before… Many visual artists don’t like to write. But, try writing a stream of consciousness! Just allow yourself to write what ever comes to mind. You will surprise yourself by your own creative thoughts that will be spilling onto the pages!
Usually when I really feel really bored or ‘stuck’ I often will try something new! Recently, I was feeling bored with my own art. I am a realistic painter, so I decided to take some abstract classes! It has invigorated my art. Now I am playing around with encaustic wax paintings too…
I am lucky because I paint both landscape and still life paintings. When I get stuck or bored, I usually grab my outdoor plein air painting gear and I head outside for a few hours of painting. This clears the mental cobwebs and I always find something new!