10 Ways to Overcome Artists Block

I am almost always creating art or have an artwork on the go but for all of us, artists block can hit at any time, stopping us dead in our tracks. There are lots of reasons why it happens, and plenty of excuses we use as to why we aren't creating, despite the fact that we crave the feeling of doing so. Here are a few ideas that might help you get back on track if the artwork stops flowing:

1. Forget about the outcome - Our own self criticism can be very powerful, as can the feeling that we need to constantly improve our work. Try to forget about producing the best work you have ever made and instead concentrate on the feeling of creating without judging what you do.

2. Try a different medium - Using a different medium to create in can be a refreshing change, even if that medium isn't one you would normally work in. Try something simple in charcoal, pencil or marker pen rather than hauling out the paints when you don't feel like painting.

3. Move out of your comfort zone - If you are the kind of person who creates in a similar way each time then try doing something completely different. Maybe that means trying an abstract, using a palette knife or ruler, or starting your work in a new way. You know how you usually work, so try working differently.

4. Work small - A simple small sketch can get the flow back and is so much easier to tackle than a large painting.

5. Remember the feeling - Remind yourself why you create in the first place and how much enjoyment you get out of the process. Even a quick doodle will remind you how much you enjoy it.

6. Phone a friend - Sometimes it isn't the act of creating art that's the problem - it's the subject. The challenge of creating a subject that someone else has suggested can be quite fun and can get you started.

7. Start with some colour - A white page or canvas can feel very daunting to work on, so try adding some colour - either all over or in patches onto your canvas before you start. If you are using paper maybe try a different colour as a base.

8. Make some time - It takes as little as fifteen minutes to create a drawing, so make a little time each day. Maybe it's with your morning coffee, maybe in front of the TV, but a little time every day helps keep the momentum flowing.

9. Get messy with pareidolia - Pareidolia is the of act of seeing things in shapes an patterns, much like we see recognisable shapes in clouds. Making some random marks or splashes on paper or canvas can lead to finding interesting shapes and ideas that can be worked on to create a final piece.

10. Work with others - Many of us enjoy working alone, but sometimes it is nice to be among other creatives who can offer help and encouragement. Joining a local club or starting a course can really help keep the artistic momentum going.