Artists are often plagued with the fear of running out of inspiration. This is because creativity is an intangible thing that can be difficult to grasp. But, is there really such a thing as art block? And if yes, how can one get rid of art block because a lot of people ask this question: What should I do to get out of art block? You’ll learn everything you need to know about it here in 2024.
Is art block real?
Art block is really a thing. It is a common phenomenon experienced by artists and people in the creative professions. It is a commonly used term that refers to the inability to create art. Art block can be frustrating, for artists. As it is a phenomenon when they are unable to produce artwork despite the desire or need to do so.
Some people believe that art blocks are a fact while others disagree with this notion and believe it is just a figment of imagination but it sure it is a thing. Art block is real and sadly a lot of artists struggle because of it.
What causes art block?
Art block may be caused by a variety of different things. It could be because an artist is feeling uninspired or unmotivated, or maybe they are just tired and need a break.
It can also be caused by negative emotions such as anger, stress, sadness, and grief. These emotions can cause the artist to feel overwhelmed and not want to create anything at all. This can also be called artist block depression.
What are the signs of art block?
The most common sign of art block is that the artist starts to feel that they are not creative anymore. They start to doubt their abilities and they feel that they are not able to come up with new ideas.
Some other signs of art block are:
- The artist starts feeling like they have lost their sense of purpose.
- They start questioning whether or not their work is worth anything.
- Their work feels stagnant and repetitive, no matter how hard they try.
- Their unable to focus on any task and they have a lack of inspiration.
- Some have a sense of self-doubt or lack of confidence in their abilities.
Effective ways to get over art blocks that actually work
There are many ways to get over an art block and here are some of the most effective ones:
1- Pinterest
Pick a time of the day when you’ll spend only searching pictures on Pinterest. Whenever you cross a drawing or reference picture that you like and interest you, just save it. Continue like this for a while, then look up at all the pictures you saved. This could help you overcome your art block.
2- Find inspiration from your favorite inspirations
Look up at artworks of your favorite artists. If you don’t have a favorite artist yet then search for one. By looking at artworks you like, you’ll be more likely inspired to draw on your own.
3- Doodle
Draw, not make the perfect artwork, but just to pass time and doodle. Artists tend to be perfectionists and they try, when making art to be as perfect as possible, But sometimes what that does is just block them. As they don’t find what could be the perfect drawing idea for them they don’t draw at all. They get depressed and art block welcomes them with open arms.
So try for a while to just draw doodles and not make the perfect artwork as possible. This could be a solution.
4- Read
Take a novel or a collection of short stories by an author or in a style you like. Read two or three chapters, two or three short stories. Just imagining what you’re reading can make you want to illustrate your reading.
Reading comics, graphic novels or manga can also spark your creativity.
5- Music
As with reading, listening to music can get you inspired to draw and help you get rid of art blocks. All you have to do is choose a type of music: sad, happy, emotional, horror, etc. Then once your song or playlist is chosen, lay on your bed, put on your earbuds, and close your eyes. While listening to the music, imagine a scene taking form in your mind. Perhaps you’ll have a perfect picture of what you can draw. You can try to use this technique by listening to some of your favorite songs so that your artwork be more personal.
6- Take a break
Sometimes all you need is a break from your project. If you’ve been working on something for too long without making progress, take a day or two off and come back refreshed and ready to tackle it again!
7- Change up your environment
Take your sketchbook and draw somewhere where you have never drawn before. It could be a place inside, as well as outside, as long as it’s somewhere different where you usually draw.
You could go for a walk to then sit on a bench and look at what surrounds you. Perhaps this way you’ll find your inspiration.
8- You need an art block cure generator
Sometimes all you need is the right idea to overcome art block. On this website, there is a section called Drawing ideas, where you can find lots and lots of drawing ideas that might cure your art block so go check it out.
How long does art block last?
You may now be struggling with art block, perhaps that is why you are reading this article. You may be then curious to know how long does art block lasts. Well, the duration of art block varies from person to person, but it usually lasts for a few hours or days at most. Some people even experience it on a regular basis, which can interfere with their career if not dealt with properly.
In conclusion
Art block is something that a lot of artists face every day. It can be really hard and depressing sometimes but the most important thing you need to know is that it is a phase, it’ll pass. It is only temporary. They are however some tricks that can help you get over art block quicker and we did our best to explain them to you in this article.
If you need some drawing ideas to cure your art block, here is an art block cure generator.
