Fighting art block

This year I’ve been through two art blocks, both related to stress of finalizing and defending my PhD. I was too busy and stressed for several months, so when I was finally relieved and had plenty of time to create - I couldn’t. I bet many of you can relate. It’s like when you are really tired but cannot fall asleep. And I didn’t know how to start making art again.

I must confess my art block didn’t last long, as you can see me actively making art again. But I decided to talk about my experience and share couple of things that might help.

Here are 3 easy steps that may help you:

1. Surround yourself with art: go to a museum and spend some time in front of a painting that you like the most, try to analyze it, notice colors and texture, think why you like it and whether you can make something similar. In case you live far from a museum or museums are closed due to pandemic, look for virtual museum tours or look for paintings of your favorite artists on the internet.

2. Prepare your tools in the case of a spontaneous inspiration: it’s always easier to start creating when the right format of paper is attached to a support, pencil is sharpened and you don’t have to spend 15 minutes looking for that bloody eraser.

3. Create suitable atmosphere: clean your desk, make that delicious coffee in a nice cup, light a candle and play relaxing music that makes you feel good.

These are the tools that definitely helped me to climb out of my art block. I will be the happiest person on earth if any of these tips help someone to regain their inspiration!