Tag: artists

We all know that spending time outdoors and embracing nature is good for both our physical and mental health, but what impact can it have on our creativity?

Throughout history, nature has been a source of inspiration for many creatives. From retreats in remote locations, to artist-in-residence programmes held in stunning landscapes. But okay, we know what you’re thinking: that’s all well and good for landscape artists, but how can nature help to inspire me?

In recent years, studies have found that spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to get your creative juices flowing.

Getting outdoors doesn’t just help us escape the stresses of daily life – but it’s also a wonderful way to relax. Reconnecting with our environment can have a profound impact on our mood and behaviour – helping to reduce anxiety and stress, as well as increasing our attention span.

Wandering outdoors can also boost our positive emotions – such as feelings of awe, wonder and contentment. All of which have cognitive benefits, which are directly associated with creativity.

And so, the evidence keeps piling up: nature is good for you. So, here’s a thought: the next time you’re feeling unmotivated or lacking imagination, why not pop outdoors? You might just find your creativity will soar with every step you take. But don’t worry – unlike Sting, we won’t be watching you.

Image credit: Helena Nilsson

Whether you’re in a creative rut, or simply want to add a boost of positive energy to your week, there’s no doubting the power that inspirational quotes can have. These kernels of wisdom from global creatives will have you feeling fresh and inspired in no time!

“There should be something revelatory about art. It should be totally creative and open doors for new thoughts and experiences.” – Tracey Emin, artist

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have” – Maya Angelou, poet

“I think that little by little, I’ll be able to solve my problems and survive.” – Frida Kahlo, painter

“Prosperity is not without many fears and disasters; and adversity is not without comforts and hopes.” – Francis Bacon, painter

“There’s no diploma in the world that declares you as an artist – it’s not like becoming a doctor. You can declare yourself an artist and then figure out how to be an artist.” – Kara Walker, painter

“I don’t think there’s any artist of any value who doesn’t doubt what they’re doing.” – Francis Ford Coppola, filmmaker

“Art is the most intense mode of individualism that the world has known.” – Oscar Wilde, poet

“The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt” – Sylvia Plath, writer

“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” – Vincent Van Gogh, painter

“Above all, art should be fun.” – Alexander Calder, sculptor

Image credit: Last Lemon

Creativity does wonders for your mental health. So, it’s no wonder that when you wake up in the morning and sit down to work and the creativity isn’t there, the spiral of self-doubt begins. Perhaps the words just aren’t coming… visually something is missing… or maybe you can’t put your finger on exactly what’s wrong.

But don’t worry, it’s normal – it happens to us all. If you’re looking for ways to get out of your creative rut, why not try out some of our different ways to find inspiration and see what works for you?

Change Your Environment

One of the easiest changes to make when you’re feeling uninspired is to change your physical environment. For many of us, lockdown might restrict our options. However, changing your environment can be as easy as moving into a different room, setting up your desk in front of a window – or even putting on some music and lighting a candle. Just don’t leave it unattended 😉

Try Something New

If you find that you’re hitting a creative roadblock, now might be the time to pursue a new hobby. From experimenting with different recipes in the kitchen to writing a short story – or trying out watercolours instead of acrylics. Have a go at something you wouldn’t consider yourself to be a ‘pro’ at. By putting yourself out there you’ll not only give yourself a break from your usual practice, but you’ll probably find that you unleash more creativity in another area.

Listen to a Podcast

Podcasts became an ally for many last year, which saw 2020 crowned as the ‘golden age of podcasts’. You can find one for almost anything these days so it can be hard to know where to start – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! A few of our favourite creative and art-based podcasts: include Artcurious, 99% Invisible, Raw Material, and Talk Art. 

Collaborate

How many times has a problem been solved simply by talking it through? The same goes for creative blocks. Sometimes the energy that other people bring to a conversation can have a really positive impact. Asking your social media followers for thoughts, feedback or even suggestions is a great way to kick start a conversation!

Start a Moodboard

Start collecting as many ideas as you possibly can! Perhaps it’ll take shape in a Pinterest board, or magazine cut outs – but before you know it, you’ll be flooded with inspiration and ideas again.

Pen and Paper at the Ready

Keeping an notebook close to jot down ideas is a great way to be creative throughout your daily life. You can fill it with quotes, doodles, or even a paragraph about what you did that day. The important thing to remember is to not overthink it. Let your mind wander… and play.

Don’t Force It

Whilst there are lots of things you can try, forcing yourself to be creative shouldn’t be one of them. The last thing you want is to try harder and for the ideas to become flatter and flatter. Sometimes, the best thing to do is step away for a bit. Everyone needs a break now and again. So, take the time to relax, enjoy yourself and come back later. Time away might be exactly what you need in order to be restored and inspired.

Image credit: Happy Fluff Comics