2. Get away from your studio. Take a short walk outside. It’s amazing what the fresh air and sunshine can do! Listen to nature and just soak it in.

3. Ask yourself, “What is holding me back?” Chances are, if your studio space is cluttered, that’s a likely culprit! Do you have a “To Do” list nearby? That’s distracting! Take the time to create a soothing atmosphere. De-clutter, have easel and paints set up and ready to go. Listen to music, add fresh flowers or light a candle. Hang your favorite inspirational quotes or verses.

4. Invest in yourself! If you are using student grade paints, that might be why you are struggling. Those paints tend to have fillers in them so they are not as fluid and juicy as professional grade. If you want to pursue creating, you are worth the money to invest in good quality materials. If you are on a budget, just slowly build your collection when you can afford it. 

5. Before entering your studio space, get into a positive mindset. You can start by writing down one or two things you are grateful for. Make it an every-day practice. It’s fun to go back and read them again later and be reminded of your blessings.

6. Do something creative that’s different from your norm. If you typically paint in oils or acrylics, try just spending 10 minutes sketching in a sketchbook. Even better, use a permanent marker! It will take away the urge to constantly erase. Just doodle and let it flow. Fill it in with watercolor. Remember, you are doing this just for you! It’s not to hang, sell, or show anyone (unless you want to!) This will take the pressure off and just allow you to be in the joyful moment of creating

7. Along those same lines, while you are painting with your typical medium, add something new or different…a new color; use modeling paste under your painting to create texture, add gold leaf. The sky is the limit! This will help pull you out of a rut. Don’t worry about whether the new “thing” you’ve added works or not. It’s just for fun. Who knows, you may discover something you want to incorporate into your artistic style!

8. Keep a list of artists who inspire you…google them and look at their art. Set a timer though, the internet can be a time hog! You could also look at picture books of artists. Study their art, read about their process. This might spark some new ideas.

9. Get out and go to a local gallery or museum. There’s nothing like seeing art in person. The colors and brushstrokes just come alive. Every time I do this I can’t wait to get home and paint!