A Creative Block

This is the wonky painting from the activity I did. I actually really like how he came out and I like all the imperfections.

Here’s another painting I’ve neglected. I always end up starting a painting and then leave it hanging for who knows how long.

This is something new I decided to try out. I’ve been wanting to start adding different product and tote bags have been on my mind. I finally decided to try painting on one and I’m pretty content with how it came out.

30 December 2021

Hey!

I’ve been in this creative block or more like I’m trying to get over this inconvenient creative bump recently. I am not entirely sure how to express things in art and I have been feeling so frustrated with what I have been creating lately. Nothing is standing out to me and it all feels more forced.

Not only am I in this weird non creating mode, I have been struggling with figuring out what I want to do post graduation. Growing my small business has been the focal point for me, but I’m worried about making it successful and growing it. Like I said in my last blog, I shouldn’t worry too much about being the best of the best yet and my success will look differently than others. In a way, I think me being worried about being successful is making it hard for me to enjoy creating things.

Anyways, this is just what’s been going on for me and I figured it would be a good topic to touch on in my blog. I wanted to just write about what I’m doing to get over this creative bump and how to feel ok with where I’m at with my art and business.

I’ve had the itch to create and make something I love and want to share, but I’m struggling to come up with something to satisfy that itch. I’ve been looking to a lot of different artist, listening to new podcasts, and have been looking for inspiration in everything. I’ve also been looking for new things to read and been doing more activities that will make me feel happier and healthier. Focusing on how things make me feel and how different things will inspire me.

Looking to new artists and exploring different things recently has made me realize that I focus way too much on how to make something appealing to look at. Look is a big part of what makes you enjoy and love something, but I’m realizing more and more that the feelings and ideas behind it is more important. I want to know more and learn how to make my art not only look nice, but have more behind it, more feelings and ideas to support it.

Somethings that I’ve done these past couple weeks to help motivate me have been watching more shows about artists from different backgrounds. I found a cool docuseries on Netflix that has been my jam recently and it has sparked some ideas. I also have been listening to podcast more often and listening to people just chat and share different ideas has definitely helped me inch my way out of this creative rut.

I’ve also been trying new activities in hopes to get the creative juices flowing. I read a blog recently on ways to improve your creativity. One thing they suggested was using only a few different paint colors and use a brush to just smear the colors all over one page. Making different shapes and lines, seeing how everything will just naturally mesh together. This little activity was a lot of fun to do and I ended up painting a really wonky guy in a hat. It was nothing spectacular or anything pretty to look at, but it was so much fun to make, which I think was the whole point of the activity.

Listening to new podcast, watching new shows, trying new activities, and being more aware of what makes me feel happy and healthy is just the first steps I’ve taken. Doing all these things has definitely motivated me and has improved my creative block, but I know there’s still a little ways to go. In the New Year, I’m hoping to feel more inspired, have more drive, and be more open and free with my art and business. I also will find more time to pursue my passions and figure out where I’m heading next!

Wishing everyone happiness, good health, and lots of love in the New Year!

Kabenzie :)