3 Simple Steps to find Inspiration
Last month I read Show Your Work by Austin Kleon, who explains that as soon as we become familiar with our creative practice, it’s time to ditch what we know and start searching for something new. That’s how we grow as artists - breaking away from what we’re comfortable with in order to discover new ideas that challenge the way we think about art. As creatives we are often aware of our finite cup of inspiration, which we must continually fill in order to stay in the flow of creating. But however inspired we may find ourselves, inevitably that cup will, at some point, dry up. So if like me you’ve been searching for new ideas this month, here are some of the simplest ways I stay creative when I feel uninspired.
Back to basics
In this digital age there’s something special about seeing analogue artwork in it’s simplest form, whether it’s within the pages of a book, on a gallery wall or somewhere out in nature. Last month I treated myself to some picture books by my favourite illustrators, including this one by Carson Ellis, to inspire some new creative ideas. These illustrations hold a completely different value when you’re able to handle the pages - so much more than if you’re viewing them on a screen. I also have many hefty art books that I dip into occasionally, like Art by Susie Hodge, or this one on Claude Monet. Even if you don’t have access to art books, perhaps there is a character from your favourite novel, or a scene that you could sketch out in the moments you have before you start the day, to spark some new inspiration. A few months ago I tried my hand at chapter headings as a way to create illustrations when I felt uninspired by picture book spreads. Personal projects like this can often ignite enough interest to move you out of a place of stagnation and reconnect you back to your creativity.
I also recently dug out some of my old sketchbooks to remind myself of my own creative journey. If you still own your old work, try digging it out and ask yourself, what about this did I used to love? Why did I make it in the first place? What inspired me back then? If we are too disconnected from our own creativity we may attempt to make work that looks similar to other artists’, which is ultimately detrimental to our own artistic development. Connecting instead to past projects can spark a new source of inspiration, as well as reminding us why we loved creating art in the first place.
And if you’re an illustrator like me, don’t think that you can only look at other illustrators in order to be inspired! Research other disciplines that have been influenced by the same themes that interest you. If you are a picture book maker, look at set design. If you’re a ceramicist, research textile designers. If you’re a photographer, watch some performance art. Delve into eras and cultures, art movements and fashion styles, artifacts and sculpture. There really is so much out there for us to discover.
Hooray for technology!
Who said you have to leave the house in order to visit a gallery?! During lockdown I found many online resources that helped me to stay creative between bigger projects. This website is a great resource for referencing figures, or if you feel like having a go at life drawing. I also watched this live rehearsal from the Royal Ballet for movement and dance inspiration (these lives happen every year on World Ballet Day). If it’s fine art you’re after, this website has an amazing resource of traditional paintings. For photography, I tend to use the National Archives. (Remember these resources are for inspiration only. You must check the image copyright if you intend to use them within your work). I also LOVE a museum tour. There are so so many like this one on YouTube that take you on tours of various museums and galleries all over the world. This website is also great if you are looking for street/outdoor scenes. Just press play and sketch what you see! I promise that something from a drawing session like this will get you into the swing of creating again.
Another way to spark inspiration is to draw from film. It’s the easiest way for me to stay creative without having any pressure to show what I draw to the world. Whether it’s the colour palette, art direction, character design or costume, I can assure you there’ll be something you can take away, and you’ll enjoy the process! If you’re looking for imagination, try stop-motion animation. For atmosphere, German expressionist films. For colour, anything by Wes Anderson. This month my friend and I plan to have a Studio Ghibli marathon and I cannot WAIT. Of course, there’s also Instagram and Pinterest to fall back on for bursts of inspiration, but instead of scrolling, try looking at who your favourite artists are following. Often there are a few names on there you won’t already know, but they may share a similar style to you and it’s fun to see who your favourite artists are inspired by.
Broaden your horizons
Lastly, if you’re feeling uninspired, it could be a message from your creative brain that you need to take a break! I tend to split my time between illustration, workshops, teaching dancing, blogging, yoga, going for walks. These are all forms of creativity in different disguises. Prioritise your own creative outlets as much as your drawing practice as best you can. Often it is during these moments where we separate ourselves from work that sparks of inspiration begin to flicker. Devote more of your time to exploration. Indulge in your curiosities. Invite people into your creative circle and share ideas. Gathering little inspirations here and there can, with enough mental clarity, allow you to return to your work with a fresh attitude and a satisfying amount of creativity. In the end, don’t feel defeated if you’re lacking inspiration right now, it happens to the best of us. As long as you branch out often, stay curious and be kind to yourself, you can truly find inspiration anywhere.
Since July?
*Show your work as I mentioned before has so many valuable tips for creatives and it’s a very easy read. Highly recommend.
*Anyone else watching the Olympics? I don’t tend to watch sport regularly but the Olympics always seem to draw me in. I went to the London games in 2012 and I guess it brings back those happy memories. I think GB have three gold medals as I’m writing this, so here’s hoping for some more by the time this post goes up!
*If in doubt, make a CHEESECAKE! Recently I really enjoyed this one (sorry vegan friends this one isn’t for you)
Wishing you all a happy August whatever you’re up to. I’m planning to share a two-part post in the Autumn on processes if all goes to plan! For now though, let’s just enjoy summer, I don’t think my brain can grasp the fact that it’ll be September next month just yet.
Catherine