Tera's Wish

getting through slumps

Getting through artistic slumps is something that affects all artists at one time or another. Sometimes we are bored; sometimes we are just overwhelmed or afraid to get something done.

You can spend a lot of time analyzing your thoughts about WHY you are blocked - the main thing is to get working again. Here are some tips on how to do that.

* Clean your studio. It can be very inspiring to touch all those art supplies and remember why you bought them!

* Go through your books and make a list of projects you would like to try.

* Take a class. Being with people who are excited about their own work can be very inspiring.

* Put together an idea nursery. This is a book where you put clippings, sketches, and photos that draw you to them. Don't think about why you are putting something in the book, just do it. Going through a custom book filled with inspiring photos, clips, and quotes is a great way to get your juices flowing.

* Write in your journal. Make a list of reasons why you don't feel like creating. Write a list of reasons why you should. Sometimes we are afraid to take the creative jump, and sometimes we are just bored. Don't think too much; just write until you feel done.

* Go on to the next thing on your list. Women tend to be more excited about the process of creativity than the finished product. If what you are doing is not inspiring it may be hard to get through with it.

* Get involved in a yahoo group or mailing list about your art. Corresponding with other artists is a wonderful way to get excited about your work. Search for groups at http://groups.yahoo.com/

* Do something new. Turn the music on loud and dance. Paint your wall. Wear something new. Just get out of that rut.

* Imagine yourself a gypsy. How would a wild and creative gypsy handle the slump you are dealing with? For one day play dress up like you did as a child and let the gypsy in you handle your work.

* Take the day off. Go to the park, or people watch at the local mall. Just get yourself out. Bring a sketchbook. Sketch without the need to be perfect. You can rip the pages up at the end of the day, just get out and observe.

* Think about times in the past when you were blocked. What helped then?

* Write down your project as a question. (E.g. How can I do ____ and make it fun?) Brainstorm in a stream of conscious manner every idea you come up with without censoring your own thoughts. When you are done, put it away and read it the next day. Underline ideas that sound plausible. Rewrite them as a plan for your art time.

The main thing is to get working. You don't necessarily have to work at the thing you are currently avoiding, but get yourself moving creatively. Find a reason to be inspired and your work will sing.

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