Creativity: 12 Artists On What To Do When You Get Stuck Creatively

When it comes to creativity, it helps to have a muse–or a dozen. I’m excited to add artist Carrie Schmitt to my list of inspiring people, because every time I pick up her new book, Painted Blossoms, I gain a piece of insight. In addition to providing instructions on how to create mixed-media flower art, Carrie offers bits of advice and motivating quotes.

Knowing that all artists go through ups and downs, for example, Carrie asked 11 artists what they do when they’re stuck in their creativity. Here’s what they had to say:

Creativity and inspiration | Carrie Schmitt, ClothPaperScissors.com
Painted Blossoms includes step-by-step lessons on how to create a variety of floral art, including a flower mandala.

“I just go on. If you just go on with what is in that very moment, you will never be stuck. In another way being stuck can be an aspect of going on.” ~Lia Porto

“Set your intentions as an artist and let the universe guide you. Try to let your subconscious take over as much as possible. Sometimes we get stuck in a rut, and letting go of old patterns is a great start.” ~Brooke Wandall

“I work on a number of paintings at a time. I think it’s important to look at and review what you’ve done, let it sink in, not feeling obliged to finish in a rush. I like to look at books for inspiration, visit galleries and museums. Drawing regularly in a sketchbook is a useful tool to keep hold of ideas.” ~Este MacLeod

Creativity and inspiration | Carrie Schmitt, ClothPaperScissors.com
Image from Painted Blossoms

“When I get stuck, there are many things I do to shift my energy. I stop painting and take a break. Often I turn on some music and dance, have a snack, go for a walk or do some yoga. Getting fresh air and taking deep breaths is always good for me. I do things that bring me back to my center and allow for a creative flow.
“I try to remember that we all get stuck at times. It’s important to be gentle with ourselves and understand how the creative process ebbs and flows.” ~Megan Jefferson

My two cents? When I get stuck, I try to give myself time to “recover” from the seeming lack of creativity. During this vulnerable time, it can be easy to let negative thoughts creep in–the “Is my work good enough?” or “Is it unique enough?” lines that all of us fight at some point. And when my mind goes there, I acknowledge it as part of the process, and then I banish the thoughts because negative thinking can ruin a person’s creativity. My advice is to not compare your art to anyone else’s, unless you can do so in a way that’s conducive to your growth.

Don’t miss your chance to get a copy of Painted Blossoms: Creating Expressive Flower Art with Mixed Media. For a limited time, you can also score a set of beautiful greeting cards designed by Carrie. It’s a combination that you can only find here!

Stay creative,
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Blog, Mixed-Media Painting Techniques, Mixed-Media Techniques

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