What to Do when You Run out of Ideas

As artists, we sometimes go through seasons where there are a backlog of ideas for paintings and there isn't enough time in the day to paint everything that we envision. Then there are dry spells when you just can't find a thing that sparks your interest. Whenever I hit one of those dry spells, I try one of these inspiration starters:

Go for a drive with your camera. This works best if you have someone to drive while you stare out the window. You will need someone who will stop when you ask, not when there is a convenient pull off (usually doesn't work with a spouse). The best shot is usually where you can't easily pull over.

Go for a walk with your camera. This sounds like the previous tip but it isn't. Walking in an area gives you an entirely different vantage point. When you slow down and look, many different shapes and colors will grab your attention, things that you would not have noticed had you driven by.

Take a workshop. There is something about getting out of your routine and focusing only on your art for a few days that is totally inspiring. To get the most out of the experience, use the techniques the teacher shows you, no matter how uncomfortable. Use the brushes they use and the paint colors they recommend. Make sure to clear out your schedule for a week after the workshop so that you can incorporate the things you learned into your own painting.

Paint outside. If you normally work in the studio, getting outside will invigorate your senses. You will start to notice color shifts that you hadn't seen before. Unusual composition ideas may present themselves.

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Painting outside with friends

Paint with friends. Most of us work alone in the studio. Getting together for an artist play date can give you a different perspective. I love to see how others approach a problem and getting honest feedback on something you are working on can be invaluable.

Play. Don't expect a masterpiece, let go of any pressure to perform and have fun.

Try out something that you saw on YouTube.

If you normally paint with oil, try watercolor.

Paint an entire painting with your reference upside down.

Prep your canvas with texture paste. 

Paint the same image multiple times.

You're Late Filling the Feeder

8 x 8 texture paste on canvas

Have you discovered a way to get inspired? let me know, I may need that the next time I find myself wondering what to paint next!