Hello, hello, its been a minute!
Life both in studio and out was hectic in 2023, with multiple projects, classes and homelife changes, but over the summer break I have managed to take some time out to relax and recharge, and have now found myself with a few precious windows of time to enjoy my own space, before my year begins in ernest.
Ideally I would be able to pick up my brushes and immerse myself on cue into my patiently waiting unfinished works.Yet I am finding myself in the midst of the ever dreaded creative block. Its incredibly frustrating.
Once upon a time, this would've sent me into a deep dive of guilt, self loathing and despair. When we are 'good' or 'talented' at something we seem to have the unrealistic expectation that 'it' will always be on tap to switch on and off as we please, that we must always be good, and able. Life experience reminds me that is not the case. On the contrary, our gifts, whatever they are, must be continually nurtured, challenged and grown upon, which may not always be in ways one would expect ....
Cue the creative block.
I could right now, put brush to canvas and make marks, but as I am having an inspiration dryspell, it would probably achieve nothing more than temper tantrums and tears this day. As is the case on many previous occasions, it does not end well, it causes self doubt in my abilities,and defeats motivation.
But.
I have a studio all to myself, no classes to run today. I have all the materials I need. And I have that rare and precious commodity of time.
So, if like me, youre struggling, then what to do?
1) First things first. Turn up. One of the most effective tools in my creative block toolbox. Turning up creates habit, which in turn helps create that mental switch into 'work' mode. It doesn't much matter whether you have a solid plan, or any idea at all of what it is you will achieve today, you still have to 'turn up'.
For me, that looks like consistently arriving to the studio after school drop off on my set days, and spending the day here. For someone else it might be having a committed block of time, daily or even a few times a week, where you go to the space you create in ( your desk, your garden, your dining room table) that you stick to, no matter your mood. Create your habit. Inspiration will eventually follow.
2) So what to do now you are here? Start with setting the mood. You want this space to feel good to be in. Turning on a favourite playlist, lighting a scented candle or incense, having something pleasing to look at, all help me. Make a coffee or tea (or pour a wine if its that time of the day) get comfortable. Then pick up a pen and paper..
3) Make a list.
Lists are such amazing, yet exceptionally underrated tools. Personally I like to handwrite mine, with subheadings. What is on the list you might ask? Start with some really basic tasks..the housekeeping of our creative practises. It might be sorting out paint supplies. Washing brushes/jars/palettes thoroughly. Gessoing canvases. Sharpening tools. Rewinding string or wool.... the mundane yet important tasks that we tend to put off when we are in the throes of creative genius, are the ideal here. It will not only clear and reorganise your creative space ready for new inspiration, but it will clear you mind too, in a somewhat meditative way. Now that you have a list, you can get a start on them, because crossing things off the list will provide a sense of achievement. Who knows? Along the way you might even resdicover a book or uncover unused materials once forgotten that give you fresh inspiration..
4) We're still not there yet? Creative juices are a trickle at best? Time to practise a moment of self care.
I'm not talking about getting your nails painted, although that is a nice idea.
It's time to do some reflection on what might be at the root of this current block. You might want to write it out journalling style, perhaps you are more of a quiet inner reflection while going for a walk type. There's no wrong way. To undo a creative block we sometimes have to address whats causing it. It might be as simple as not enough sleep. Or there might be other things at play. Have you been unwell lately? Are there financial stressors eating up your brain space? Relationship woes? Overwhelmed with responsibilities that have taken every ounce of your energy? Once you have recognised what might be at the core of the issue, it's time to ask yourself what you can do to address them*.
Not everything can be resolved automatically, but acknowleding and clarifying things can help clear your grey matter, and oftentimes our creative pursuits can be useful outlets for stress relief. In fact it can be most cathartic to create something in RESPONSE to what is bothering you. Not all art is meant to be aesthectially pleasing or pleasant, and some of the most powerful work comes from places of hardship. Frida Kahlo, Vincent Van Gogh, Edvard Munch are all great examples of artists whom put their pain to work.
So go make a mess, throw around some black paint, let all of that stuff out until it feels better ok? Give yourself full permission to let it all go.
Need more convincing?
10 Famous Inspiring Artists Overcoming Adversity: (2024 Updated) - Acreativeinsight
5) Still stuck? Feed your creativity. It's probably really hungry for something new by now..
Plan a catch up with a friend whom has a creative passion, go and see an inspiring show, check out an exhibition, sign up to do a class of something new to you,.. Creativity feeds creativity! The more you're around people and places that fuel you, the more your own creativity will start to flourish again. I promise!!
Lastly, maybe none of this helped you to create a masterpiece today. Thats ok. Thats what tomorrows for! Rinse and repeat as needed. And be kind to yourself always.
Go well, and I'll be seeing you on the otherside of the easel soon!
Maria
*Blog on my experiences addressing those tough issues coming soon!.