Gwen, I just found you today, and what you’ve said made me cry. I’ve been in a slump for three months. I’ve had no desire whatsoever to paint or do anything else that’s creative. That worried me, because painting is my feel-good place. Thank you so much for making this video. It makes me feel not as alone in what I’m going through. I think you’re right about the pervasive negativity going on right now. I need to shut out the news so I can get back to where I need to be - in my art room! 😊
Oh Trudy.....so glad you liked the video and so happy it helped you. You are not alone in being in a slump as I think everyones Mojo decided to go to the beach and get away from everything going on today.....our Mojo was smart. Yes, Trudy....get into the studio and create as if your life depends on it....make some shit art and make some good art....just make ART!....be sure to subscribe as I want to know how you are doing...
I’ve been in a block for about a year after realizing the art that I was known for didn’t bring me joy anymore when creating it. I knew I was to do something else but what? I watched countless videos, looked at books etc to get some kind of direction but nothing came. Recently, I needed to get art done for a show which got to be a real dilemma - even anxiety-producing- since I wasn’t producing any art. Finally, I decided to throw caution to the wind and became like a bratty child saying “ they aren’t the boss over me. I can do what I want!” I realize that I took way too seriously the idea that my art needed to be “cohesive” which was keeping me somewhat trapped. Deep down, I think I was afraid that my new art wouldn’t be accepted. And would I upset those who bought pieces in my cohesive style? Now I’m having fun again! And I do have new pieces (mixed in with previous work) in my art booth so I did get many pieces done just in time. Thanks Gwen!
Oh Marlene.....I love your comment and it brought tears to my eyes as there are so many artists who feel what you felt and haven't had the courage to believe in themselves and create what is in their heart. We take our art too seriously and therefore don't allow the "real artist within" to come out. Thank you so much for sharing .....love you girl!!!
Love your advice! I stopped painting for awhile because I was resenting my aging and health concerns (negative thoughts)but I kept creating paintings in my head that I knew I’d never get to. It would keep me up nights just thinking about them. I started reading and watching other artists on you tube all day long. I had to give over the remote at night so my husband could watch his cop shows. All of a sudden I started doing strange things like crushing up egg shells, throwing paints all over the newspapers and tearing them up. I even started scraping wet paint which previously I thought was a sin😂 Today I got up and had a quick breakfast because I couldn’t wait to work on the third canvas this week! I am a work in progress again and it feels so good! Thanks for your video I stumbled upon waiting for paint to dry and I hope others will get your message!
This is great, Gwen! I love your suggestions. When I am stuck, work on a different medium. I also work very quickly, not allowing my thoughts or questions to get in the way. When I am finished, I set them aside, put them in a drawer, and look at them sometime down the line. They are almost always wonderful creations I never would have made otherwise. Hope this helps someone. Thanks again for the great post!
What great suggestions Gaye....thank you so much for sharing them as I will try the putting then aside and looking at them sometime down the line. I do that with my sketches but not my quick paintings....and yes, working in a different medium is another great idea.....thank you again....
My age (80 soon) and some illness was telling me to stop this artist effort and close the studio. Encouraged by your talk, the creativity needs a new bend in the road. I will be the artist, maybe more free about what I do.
You got girl.....I am 81 so get in that studio and create away!!! So happy you are encouraged but just think about it....we have history to give to our creativity and that means a lot.
Where have you been all my artist life Gwen?😂😂. This was truly what I needed. Im going to go try some of your tips this weekend. I’ve been so stuck. Frozen. And each day that passes I feel worse that more time has passed. I make a little headway, but then seen to fall back into a slump way too easily and far more frequently than I used to back in the day!
So happy you found me as it is my job to help you any way i can.....let me know if any of the ideas work. Being frozen isn't good so know you are not alone and I am here to help....
Great video! I’m not a painter and have never seen your videos before, but the TH-cam algorithm sent me this video and I am so thankful! I am a polymer clay artist and so much of what you said was so helpful and transferable- and very relevant to my current situation. So I just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful advice and sharing your beautiful spirit! ❤
Oh my.....you just made my day with your wonderful kind and thoughtful comment. Keep creating as artists are so important to the world.....it is our energy and creativity that spreads goodness and love.
This worked well for me. Although I didn't have a complete artist's block I was tired of being good, copying etc. This morning with music and poetry I just painted trash art. I made a breakthrough. I feel really creative and happy. Thank you
I've been in a frustrating place for these last 2-3 years. I'm a cardmaker who loved selling my work at craft shows. Personal illness and Pandemic (cancelled shows) stopped sales. On the other hand, again because of the Pandemic, there were fabulous, stupid cheap paper crafting supplies all over the Internet...my house is now overflowing with wonderful supplies just waiting to be used. But here I am, spending lots of time looking for inspiration and coming up with terrific ideas that I'm not acting on. The days seem to fly by! I may try adapting some of your suggestions to my area of creativity. Thank you for posting this video...much appreciated!
Oh girl....use those supplies and create art that sells and people love.....that is your joy and purpose in life so go for it.....and let me know how you are doing....
I soooo feel you! I finally have a dedicated studio space after not having one for years and the majority of my supplies/tools and work in storage since 2011. I was working fine after I got moved in then all of a sudden (starting back in September) this creative slump started snowballing to the point that I've been unable to work at all. We shouldn't force it at the same time we shouldn't let it get worse. I hope you're able to get through your slump in a way that's natural and satisfying.
Gwen you are fantastic! Your words and genuine intention of helping artists that are stuck resonates with me. Thank you very much! I will watch more of your videos that I’m sure are extraordinary as well. Tomorrow I will start the three recommendations and get back to you. 😀❤️
YT dropped this in my feed today. I've been going through a serious bout of artistic blockage. I've been a professional artist/designer for decades and I have not experienced an artistic slump to this degree - ever! I'm usually that cheerleader, curator/mentor and luving kick in the butt for other artists. It's insane to me that I'm haven't been able to be that for myself. Mine isn't a lack of creativity (ideas, visions and projects) or simple procrastination... I have a jillion ideas, project and deadlines and plenty of supplies. I go into my studio every day, yet I'm unable to "make" myself get back to work - even with impending deadlines. A couple of weeks ago I realized I have burn out. Creative burn out is REAL! I've already taken time off, done other things to not force it or stress about it - as much as that's possible for an overthinker... Music is always on in my studio and every other aspect of my life especially since I'm also a dancer/choreographer. It's my studio art and designer block that I'm contending with. I've gone to my artist friends' studios, looked at their websites, vented to/with them, gone to shows or just done things that have nothing to do with my artwork... I'm just unable to make myself work even though I have blank canvases on my easels, paints and paper out on one of my work tables and fabrics on the tables/boards in my textile studio. All I can manage to do is hang shelves, rehang blinds, clean up/organize... Everything but doing actual artwork. WTHHHHHH???!!! Sorry, I just had to get that out. I'm heading over to my studio after I take a short walk around the neighborhood. Thanx for sharing, for your suggestions and empathy!
Thank you so much for "getting it out".....please email me as I think I can help.....if for no other reason but to talk and have the pleasure of getting to know you......gwen@gwenfox.com
Lynda...how great to hear from you....gees it has been a while. Hope you are doing well and still creating. If you have time let me how you are doing and what is going on in your life as I would love to hear from you.
I just spent a year in the duldroms and quite by accident I started organizing my studio and my art and voila, I got creating again. Just looking through all my bits and bobs of art worked for me. I also put on free audio books to get away from the political drama of the day. I think you are right about it being trying times right now and it has such a negative draw on me. I just shut myself off from it for about a week and that seemed to help.
Oh, I absolutely love you and your suggestions! I've been away from it for two years due to an illness, and guess what? I started painting on a canvas size I don't normally (because they were cheap, but holy cow what a challenge. Next, I'm going to try some colors I don't normally choose and see what I come up with. Thank you for your sage wisdom.
I am so happy this helped.....you sound like a fabulous person and one eager artist....what size was the canvas you chose to start with that was a challenge? Also, which colors did you select that you do not like.....love to hear from you.
Greetings to all from Saudi Arabia, I was so happy to hear some points that I subconsciously do but never knew they are good tips to break the cycle, as you mentioned dear Gwen I : 1- Go to the art store for no reason since I have all my art needs but I still go to get in the mood 2- I put loud music and dance as if no one is judging my silly moves 3- I changed the size of my art pieces to a much smaller size than the huge canvas I'm used to 4- instead of "trash can day" I bring out some old art work I did before and see what can I free of guilt do with it as additions on top 5- I love a certain pallet of colors and mediums but recently I decided to explore others just to break my cycle of boredom and lack of ideas or incentives 6- I watch and follow many artists doing exactly the opposite of my style to broaden my vision I thank you so much for being there for us all and sharing your knowledge Love, Elham
Elham....thank you so much for sharing what you do to stay creative. What you listed is fabulous. Your comment was wonderful and I am sure it will help others stay creative.
Hi Gwen, This subject of not feeling inspired, or not knowing what to paint next, or simply having a downtime or a temporary blip in your painterly life. The secret to overcoming these moments and effect recovery is to keep on sketching, painting, or creating , even when we do not feel like it, or find a subject. For example: just laying down colours or random shapes on small canvasses or papers can lead to a new idea forming. Also, what you have suggested, Gwen, about taking three colours, one does not really like and do random stuff with them, is very helpful too.😊
Thank you so much Paul for your comment......you are right.....the secret is to keep on sketching, painting, or creating even when you don't feel like it. However, some people are so shut down they can't even do this.....it is sad but true. I also do what you suggested and it helps but a true shut down is a disaster. Keep being inspired as we need you in the world!
Christine....thank you so much for your comment. Hope the video helped and if you haven't please subscribe .....keep me informed on how you are doing...
My mothers was born 1912 she had me in her 40s she passed in 1992, I’m now 66s, she was alway creative she could draw, paint, that where I get it, then she stoped, I asked her why she stoped, she told me when I was little, you have to be happy to be creative. 😢
Viola....what a lovely story about your Mother. She is right yet it is sad she stopped if she wasn't happy....I know from deep within my heart she is proud of you for creating. Stay with it Viola....we all need your art in our world.
Thanks, Gwen. You hit the nail on the head about all of the negative news and the 24/7 negativity. For years I thought I lost my creative imagination, but finally this is what I did. I turned off the news, I stopped watching it, I stopped listening to it. Instead, I listen to beautiful music in my studio, in my kitchen and even in the shower😂. I watched You Tube videos of painters doing their work and learned more about composition and color, bought art books and read some history of great painters. Then one day I saw a photo of a wonderful old Ukrainian woman and just had to try to paint her face. I did and it felt great! I fell in love with the process of painting and learning every day. I am 70 and felt like a curious kid again! It is the best part of life and I am so glad I got back to it. It’s never too late!! Thanks for your insights, Gwen.
Oh Diane.....your comment is fabulous! Congratulations for doing this and staying creative. It is interesting when we know something is bad for us and we listen to our inner self we not only grow as individuals but become better artists and people. You did the exact thing everyone should do....again congratulations. Thank you for taking the time to comment and share this with other artists.
New subscriber. Loved your video and inspiration. I find inspiration easy. But never enough time. Art comes in many forms and is in the eye of the artist, not the beholder. I love how you encouraged, in my words, “play.” I think as we age, we sometimes forget to just have fun with our creativity and to be true to ourselves and ”our” art, whatever form that might take. Enjoyed. 🌺
I love that you are a new subscriber.....thank you! Loved your comment and I love that you love to PLAY with your art. I must admit that I think art is in the eye of the artist and the beholder. We never realize what buttons we push in the beholder. Our art is powerful and let's people respond to what touches them....I also agree with you about finding it easier to play when we get older....play is also a very power tool. Thank you for your comment as I LOVED it.
Rebecca....I know the one you are talking about but I looked through the videos and can't find it.....If I do I will let you know....sorry about that...
I am a photographer. Here are ways I break creative blocks & reclaim my mojo: Switch areas, subjects, other art processes. Sometimes I have shot so much that I became exhausted in spirit, body + creativity. I learned to put my camera aside + take care of my needs. Sometimes, I must just give myself time before I resume shooting. Walks help. Sometimes just walking - without taking my camera - + looking at the environment in which I am walking kicks off my creativity. I sometimes do the trash can methods: Random shooting, on the spur of the moment.
Spot on! I have been in this rut for several years now and for the exact reason you said. I didn't just lose my mojo I lost my joy. Still struggling, but determined to get back in there. I will let you know.
Oh Phyllis....please let me know how it goes with your mojo....it isn't any fun to lose her....go get her and tell her she MUST stay with you as you are creating some fabulous art and you really need her NOW!!! Keep me informed...
But i am old and inonly like classical music. I want someone to encourage me to experiment. My daughter said no mum youvare an oil painter. No it goes nowhere,lots are better than i am, i thought i was really good i had been encouraged by college but proof is in the pudding and they havent sold. People are board with that approach
Ok Gill....let's get out of the "I can't do art because no one buys my art"....you said you were old....I am 81 and I am not about to let anyone decide if I can be or if I am an artist. I am an artist and so are you. I also love classical music....that is great. Do your art, listen to classical music and for goodness sake paint! Paint for YOU....not for them. Sales don't mean anything so Paint with your heart and soul full of energy. Paint for YOU Gill....I am in your corner.....let me know how you are doing as I want you to know someone has your back.
One thing I have done is have a gessoed canvas or board ready & asked visitors to make some marks usually with charcoal. I take a photo of it then in my own time I start with paint. I call it my collaborative collection. Some great results from doing this & the people that always say that they can’t draw etc love seeing them when they visit next time.
Loved this video…QUESTION: how can I apply these ideas for card making? Last month I was incredibly creative and I made 8 cards in less than 2 weeks and they’re some of my best cards ever! I want that feeling back again but don’t know how to get it.
I make card, too. I find that I do a run of really great cards (that I like) and then a run of not-so-great-card (that I do not like). I find it's a cycle with me and what I think about the cards I do not like is that SOMEONE will like them. Or maybe I put a lower price on those. Upshot: I work through the "bad" ones to get to the "good" ones and at the end of the day, I have a lot of cards!
You got some great advice form @pilotrtc .. Cards are probably no different from fine art....it takes a person who loves what you do to buy. But you want to know how what I said applies to creating cards....the secret is this.....you paint for YOU....you create cards that YOU like. That is what people buy.....they buy YOU. Keep this in mind as it will take you far.....keep me posted on how you are doing as I am really interested.
This was perfect timing. The mess the entire world is in, on top of a toxic work environment (I’m getting out ASAP!). I have had a total block for months, nothing inspires me. I’m going to do what you said…hope this is what I need!
Whether this works or not you get back in the studio and create.....the world needs our voices and yours is important. Please let me know how it goes...
Hi Gwen. I'd never seen you on here prior, but when you mentioned "why are so many artists out there STUCK??" You hit the nail on the head for me! I'm going to go thru many of the comments on here and check out what others are saying! Thank you Gwen for these helpful tips!
Thanks Annie, and thanks Gwen Fox! "We all need to help everybody else as well as ourselves." I've always tried to do that with my art making and teaching and with my blog.
I just saw this video and you, Gwen, for the first time this AM. Thank you for sharing these tips for getting our "mo-jo" back!! You are very correct about negativity...and any negativity regardless of where it comes from breeds fear. Fear is almost the antithesis of creativity. I know that for many of the people I speak with today, this has been since the pandemic began. And i think there are a couple more factors to this: #1. We spend more time in the digital world than we did in our REAL world prior to 2020. To help solve that, I have begun giving myself "Digital-free" days! It has helped immensely!! I still take phone calls from family or friends, but I dont go to any device for anything else! It started out being a "once in a while thing" and for just a few hours, but now I take a WHOLE DAY every week! It has done wonders for my soul, my psyche, and my creativity! #2. I dont think we interact with other people as much as we used to. I speak for myself, but, I have also observed that a lot of artists are kind of introverted a bit anyway, so this has been compounded and I know I have had to force myself to interact with others...not online...in-person and face-to-face. To challenge myself a little, I went to our HOA mtg a few months ago and extended an invitation to anyone who would want to create art, be it painting, crafting, hand-sewing...whatever they do that they can carry around, I invited them to a once-a-month "coffee-n-create" in my little studio. I thot maybe one or two people would show up...TEN people came! All different ages and all different types of creating!! We now meet every other week and we have to meet in the conference room of the little hotel up the street because there are FORTY of us! It is the highlight of my week when we meet! And I gain so much insipration from these wonderful people! There is a 10-yr old boy that crochets beautiful, artful items, there are painters like me, and even cross-stitchers( I didn’t even know that was still a "thing", lol!!)! The point is, we just engage each other and inspire each other and encourage one another! You don't have to go to the extremes that i have gone to in the last 18 months, but i just think getting out of the digital world once in a while and back into the real world once in a while helps keep creativity rolling...at least it has for me, and for these others that I have become involved with.
I LOVE what you just posted....your comment not only helped me but a ton of other artists.....thank you so much!!!! I think your not having a digital day is brilliant....absolutely brilliant. Congratulations for offering the coffee-n-create.....what a great idea and look at what you have done....you have put your thought and creativity in the water and you now see the ripples of happiness you have created.....Oh girl...you are awesome.
@GwenFoxArtist thank you for the encouragement! These wonderful neighbors (all ages and all different "walks-of-life") are so inspiring to me! Thank you for being here and for encouraging all of us with your insight and your talent!🩷
you do not convince me.....Art and creativity are not a " random " processes, artist is not a sick child...it's a science and knowledge and having a target and a mission.... if you don't know what you are really doing you will never get something valuable...the main problem of most is what is the definition of beauty and art.......you talking about that kind of art when you through some paint material on canvas in random and mix in random and just say " wow " for any trach you get..?? the real beauty is there in nature go and think, amuse yourself and try to understand....this is the real beginning and the correct one....
While I understand that you are saying that art is a discipline and a science, I think you have misconstrued her objective here. She isn't saying that just throwing color around is the end result: she is saying that doing this frees-up the individual to open up to seeing things and experiencing things differently. I am an artist of multiple different medias, a musician of multiple instruments, and a vocalist of multiple genres of music. I didn't get here without discipline... no artist becomes an artist without discipline. However, because of our sensitive nature that absorbs the world around us, at times, we need to allow ourselves to expell and express in nuanced ways. This can helps us get "unstuck" and loosen that creative block that so many are experiencing. If you haven't and aren't experiencing that, then I am happy for you. However, many of us here are, and Gwen has given advice for how she deals with this. She isn't saying this should be your normal, everyday, "discipline", she is giving insight that has helped her break free from the creative block she has both dealt with and that she is observing. 😊
I am not trying to convince you of anything....I am trying to present an idea that I feel is super important and affects so many artists. Yes, art is a science and knowledge but it isn't just that....it is much more. I agree with you that you need to know what you want when you paint but you must also be willing to let go of this "want" and let the heart speak. With just science and knowledge one finds it hard to create with emotion and without emotion the painting doesn't speak.....it may be a good painting but I think you want one that has knowledge and emotion. That requires one to go inside the self to connect with spirit. Thank you for your comment as conversations such as this are helpful for all artists.
Gwen, I just found you today, and what you’ve said made me cry. I’ve been in a slump for three months. I’ve had no desire whatsoever to paint or do anything else that’s creative. That worried me, because painting is my feel-good place. Thank you so much for making this video. It makes me feel not as alone in what I’m going through. I think you’re right about the pervasive negativity going on right now. I need to shut out the news so I can get back to where I need to be - in my art room! 😊
Oh Trudy.....so glad you liked the video and so happy it helped you. You are not alone in being in a slump as I think everyones Mojo decided to go to the beach and get away from everything going on today.....our Mojo was smart. Yes, Trudy....get into the studio and create as if your life depends on it....make some shit art and make some good art....just make ART!....be sure to subscribe as I want to know how you are doing...
@@GwenFoxArtistThanks, Gwen! I’ve subscribed and look forward to watching more videos. ❤
I’ve been in a block for about a year after realizing the art that I was known for didn’t bring me joy anymore when creating it. I knew I was to do something else but what? I watched countless videos, looked at books etc to get some kind of direction but nothing came. Recently, I needed to get art done for a show which got to be a real dilemma - even anxiety-producing- since I wasn’t producing any art. Finally, I decided to throw caution to the wind and became like a bratty child saying “ they aren’t the boss over me. I can do what I want!”
I realize that I took way too seriously the idea that my art needed to be “cohesive” which was keeping me somewhat trapped. Deep down, I think I was afraid that my new art wouldn’t be accepted. And would I upset those who bought pieces in my cohesive style?
Now I’m having fun again! And I do have new pieces (mixed in with previous work) in my art booth so I did get many pieces done just in time.
Thanks Gwen!
Oh Marlene.....I love your comment and it brought tears to my eyes as there are so many artists who feel what you felt and haven't had the courage to believe in themselves and create what is in their heart. We take our art too seriously and therefore don't allow the "real artist within" to come out. Thank you so much for sharing .....love you girl!!!
Love your advice! I stopped painting for awhile because I was resenting my aging and health concerns (negative thoughts)but I kept creating paintings in my head that I knew I’d never get to. It would keep me up nights just thinking about them. I started reading and watching other artists on you tube all day long. I had to give over the remote at night so my husband could watch his cop shows. All of a sudden I started doing strange things like crushing up egg shells, throwing paints all over the newspapers and tearing them up. I even started scraping wet paint which previously I thought was a sin😂 Today I got up and had a quick breakfast because I couldn’t wait to work on the third canvas this week! I am a work in progress again and it feels so good! Thanks for your video I stumbled upon waiting for paint to dry and I hope others will get your message!
You go girl....YAY to you and your determination and love for life and creating.....let's keep in touch...
This is great, Gwen! I love your suggestions. When I am stuck, work on a different medium. I also work very quickly, not allowing my thoughts or questions to get in the way. When I am finished, I set them aside, put them in a drawer, and look at them sometime down the line. They are almost always wonderful creations I never would have made otherwise. Hope this helps someone. Thanks again for the great post!
What great suggestions Gaye....thank you so much for sharing them as I will try the putting then aside and looking at them sometime down the line. I do that with my sketches but not my quick paintings....and yes, working in a different medium is another great idea.....thank you again....
My age (80 soon) and some illness was telling me to stop this artist effort and close the studio. Encouraged by your talk, the creativity needs a new bend in the road. I will be the artist, maybe more free about what I do.
You got girl.....I am 81 so get in that studio and create away!!! So happy you are encouraged but just think about it....we have history to give to our creativity and that means a lot.
Where have you been all my artist life Gwen?😂😂. This was truly what I needed. Im going to go try some of your tips this weekend. I’ve been so stuck. Frozen. And each day that passes I feel worse that more time has passed. I make a little headway, but then seen to fall back into a slump way too easily and far more frequently than I used to back in the day!
So happy you found me as it is my job to help you any way i can.....let me know if any of the ideas work. Being frozen isn't good so know you are not alone and I am here to help....
Great video! I’m not a painter and have never seen your videos before, but the TH-cam algorithm sent me this video and I am so thankful! I am a polymer clay artist and so much of what you said was so helpful and transferable- and very relevant to my current situation. So I just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful advice and sharing your beautiful spirit! ❤
Oh my.....you just made my day with your wonderful kind and thoughtful comment. Keep creating as artists are so important to the world.....it is our energy and creativity that spreads goodness and love.
Fantastic! I think you are spot on!! Even listening to your suggestions makes me want to paint!!! Thank you so much .
This worked well for me. Although I didn't have a complete artist's block I was tired of being good, copying etc. This morning with music and poetry I just painted trash art. I made a breakthrough. I feel really creative and happy. Thank you
Oh Anne.....I am so happy it helped. Thanks you so much for your comment as it made my day!!!!
I've been in a frustrating place for these last 2-3 years. I'm a cardmaker who loved selling my work at craft shows. Personal illness and Pandemic (cancelled shows) stopped sales. On the other hand, again because of the Pandemic, there were fabulous, stupid cheap paper crafting supplies all over the Internet...my house is now overflowing with wonderful supplies just waiting to be used. But here I am, spending lots of time looking for inspiration and coming up with terrific ideas that I'm not acting on. The days seem to fly by! I may try adapting some of your suggestions to my area of creativity. Thank you for posting this video...much appreciated!
Oh girl....use those supplies and create art that sells and people love.....that is your joy and purpose in life so go for it.....and let me know how you are doing....
I soooo feel you! I finally have a dedicated studio space after not having one for years and the majority of my supplies/tools and work in storage since 2011. I was working fine after I got moved in then all of a sudden (starting back in September) this creative slump started snowballing to the point that I've been unable to work at all. We shouldn't force it at the same time we shouldn't let it get worse.
I hope you're able to get through your slump in a way that's natural and satisfying.
Your the best. I sooo needed this today. You are always such a inspiration.
So glad this helped you and thank you so much for commenting....
Gwen you are fantastic! Your words and genuine intention of helping artists that are stuck resonates with me. Thank you very much! I will watch more of your videos that I’m sure are extraordinary as well. Tomorrow I will start the three recommendations and get back to you. 😀❤️
Oh Mark....you just made my day. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment....I LOVED it!!!!!
YT dropped this in my feed today. I've been going through a serious bout of artistic blockage. I've been a professional artist/designer for decades and I have not experienced an artistic slump to this degree - ever! I'm usually that cheerleader, curator/mentor and luving kick in the butt for other artists. It's insane to me that I'm haven't been able to be that for myself. Mine isn't a lack of creativity (ideas, visions and projects) or simple procrastination...
I have a jillion ideas, project and deadlines and plenty of supplies. I go into my studio every day, yet I'm unable to "make" myself get back to work - even with impending deadlines.
A couple of weeks ago I realized I have burn out. Creative burn out is REAL! I've already taken time off, done other things to not force it or stress about it - as much as that's possible for an overthinker...
Music is always on in my studio and every other aspect of my life especially since I'm also a dancer/choreographer. It's my studio art and designer block that I'm contending with. I've gone to my artist friends' studios, looked at their websites, vented to/with them, gone to shows or just done things that have nothing to do with my artwork...
I'm just unable to make myself work even though I have blank canvases on my easels, paints and paper out on one of my work tables and fabrics on the tables/boards in my textile studio. All I can manage to do is hang shelves, rehang blinds, clean up/organize... Everything but doing actual artwork.
WTHHHHHH???!!!
Sorry, I just had to get that out.
I'm heading over to my studio after I take a short walk around the neighborhood.
Thanx for sharing, for your suggestions and empathy!
Thank you so much for "getting it out".....please email me as I think I can help.....if for no other reason but to talk and have the pleasure of getting to know you......gwen@gwenfox.com
Gwen so nice to see and hear you. Lynda Wright
Lynda...how great to hear from you....gees it has been a while. Hope you are doing well and still creating. If you have time let me how you are doing and what is going on in your life as I would love to hear from you.
I just found you 😊 Thank you so much! Love you ideas!!!! Subscribed
I just spent a year in the duldroms and quite by accident I started organizing my studio and my art and voila, I got creating again. Just looking through all my bits and bobs of art worked for me. I also put on free audio books to get away from the political drama of the day. I think you are right about it being trying times right now and it has such a negative draw on me. I just shut myself off from it for about a week and that seemed to help.
Smart lady.....love the suggestion of organizing the studio to get back to creativity....works for me as well...
Oh, I absolutely love you and your suggestions! I've been away from it for two years due to an illness, and guess what? I started painting on a canvas size I don't normally (because they were cheap, but holy cow what a challenge. Next, I'm going to try some colors I don't normally choose and see what I come up with. Thank you for your sage wisdom.
I am so happy this helped.....you sound like a fabulous person and one eager artist....what size was the canvas you chose to start with that was a challenge? Also, which colors did you select that you do not like.....love to hear from you.
Greetings to all from Saudi Arabia, I was so happy to hear some points that I subconsciously do but never knew they are good tips to break the cycle, as you mentioned dear Gwen I :
1- Go to the art store for no reason since I have all my art needs but I still go to get in the mood
2- I put loud music and dance as if no one is judging my silly moves
3- I changed the size of my art pieces to a much smaller size than the huge canvas I'm used to
4- instead of "trash can day" I bring out some old art work I did before and see what can I free of guilt do with it as additions on top
5- I love a certain pallet of colors and mediums but recently I decided to explore others just to break my cycle of boredom and lack of ideas or incentives
6- I watch and follow many artists doing exactly the opposite of my style to broaden my vision
I thank you so much for being there for us all and sharing your knowledge
Love, Elham
Elham....thank you so much for sharing what you do to stay creative. What you listed is fabulous. Your comment was wonderful and I am sure it will help others stay creative.
Again , I’m so happy I found you on TH-cam ! Thank you !
I am happy you found me as well.....love your comments....
Hi Gwen, This subject of not feeling inspired,
or not knowing what to paint next, or simply having a downtime or a temporary blip in your painterly life.
The secret to overcoming these moments and effect recovery is to keep on sketching, painting, or creating , even when we do not feel like it, or find a subject.
For example: just laying down colours or random shapes on small canvasses or papers can lead to a new idea forming.
Also, what you have suggested, Gwen, about taking three colours, one does not really like and do random stuff with them, is very helpful too.😊
Thank you so much Paul for your comment......you are right.....the secret is to keep on sketching, painting, or creating even when you don't feel like it. However, some people are so shut down they can't even do this.....it is sad but true. I also do what you suggested and it helps but a true shut down is a disaster. Keep being inspired as we need you in the world!
Escape TO the painting and turn off the news.
You got it girl....right on!!!
I just found you. I love this video. It has really inspired me . Thank you 😊
Christine....thank you so much for your comment. Hope the video helped and if you haven't please subscribe .....keep me informed on how you are doing...
Ive been in a slump for a year. I will try your suggestions. Thank you
Carol.....let's work on this together....you can do it but please let me know if any of the suggestions worked....
Wow! My slump has been riding me for 6-7 months now. We have to find our way back to our creatively prolific selves.
My mothers was born 1912 she had me in her 40s she passed in 1992, I’m now 66s, she was alway creative she could draw, paint, that where I get it, then she stoped, I asked her why she stoped, she told me when I was little, you have to be happy to be creative. 😢
Oh wow!!!
Viola....what a lovely story about your Mother. She is right yet it is sad she stopped if she wasn't happy....I know from deep within my heart she is proud of you for creating. Stay with it Viola....we all need your art in our world.
Thanks, Gwen. You hit the nail on the head about all of the negative news and the 24/7 negativity. For years I thought I lost my creative imagination, but finally this is what I did. I turned off the news, I stopped watching it, I stopped listening to it. Instead, I listen to beautiful music in my studio, in my kitchen and even in the shower😂. I watched You Tube videos of painters doing their work and learned more about composition and color, bought art books and read some history of great painters. Then one day I saw a photo of a wonderful old Ukrainian woman and just had to try to paint her face. I did and it felt great! I fell in love with the process of painting and learning every day. I am 70 and felt like a curious kid again! It is the best part of life and I am so glad I got back to it. It’s never too late!! Thanks for your insights, Gwen.
Oh Diane.....your comment is fabulous! Congratulations for doing this and staying creative. It is interesting when we know something is bad for us and we listen to our inner self we not only grow as individuals but become better artists and people. You did the exact thing everyone should do....again congratulations. Thank you for taking the time to comment and share this with other artists.
Thank you 🙏🏽 Thank you 🙏🏽 Thank you 🙏🏽
You are so welcome.....
You are such an inspiring spirit!
What a lovely thing to say.....thank you so much...
New subscriber. Loved your video and inspiration. I find inspiration easy. But never enough time. Art comes in many forms and is in the eye of the artist, not the beholder. I love how you encouraged, in my words, “play.” I think as we age, we sometimes forget to just have fun with our creativity and to be true to ourselves and ”our” art, whatever form that might take. Enjoyed. 🌺
I love that you are a new subscriber.....thank you! Loved your comment and I love that you love to PLAY with your art. I must admit that I think art is in the eye of the artist and the beholder. We never realize what buttons we push in the beholder. Our art is powerful and let's people respond to what touches them....I also agree with you about finding it easier to play when we get older....play is also a very power tool. Thank you for your comment as I LOVED it.
Hi Gwen- love your works. Trying to find the video you did using a photo of people to abstract. What was the title?
Rebecca....I know the one you are talking about but I looked through the videos and can't find it.....If I do I will let you know....sorry about that...
I am a photographer. Here are ways I break creative blocks & reclaim my mojo: Switch areas, subjects, other art processes. Sometimes I have shot so much that I became exhausted in spirit, body + creativity. I learned to put my camera aside + take care of my needs. Sometimes, I must just give myself time before I resume shooting. Walks help. Sometimes just walking - without taking my camera - + looking at the environment in which I am walking kicks off my creativity. I sometimes do the trash can methods: Random shooting, on the spur of the moment.
Love, Love,Love your ideas....thank you so much for sharing them.
Spot on! I have been in this rut for several years now and for the exact reason you said. I didn't just lose my mojo I lost my joy. Still struggling, but determined to get back in there. I will let you know.
Oh Phyllis....please let me know how it goes with your mojo....it isn't any fun to lose her....go get her and tell her she MUST stay with you as you are creating some fabulous art and you really need her NOW!!! Keep me informed...
But i am old and inonly like classical music. I want someone to encourage me to experiment. My daughter said no mum youvare an oil painter. No it goes nowhere,lots are better than i am, i thought i was really good i had been encouraged by college but proof is in the pudding and they havent sold. People are board with that approach
Ok Gill....let's get out of the "I can't do art because no one buys my art"....you said you were old....I am 81 and I am not about to let anyone decide if I can be or if I am an artist. I am an artist and so are you. I also love classical music....that is great. Do your art, listen to classical music and for goodness sake paint! Paint for YOU....not for them. Sales don't mean anything so Paint with your heart and soul full of energy. Paint for YOU Gill....I am in your corner.....let me know how you are doing as I want you to know someone has your back.
One thing I have done is have a gessoed canvas or board ready & asked visitors to make some marks usually with charcoal. I take a photo of it then in my own time I start with paint. I call it my collaborative collection. Some great results from doing this & the people that always say that they can’t draw etc love seeing them when they visit next time.
What a great idea Linda.....this is awesome. You educate people while awakening their creativity....you rock girl!!!
It may sound funny, but taking probiotics and eating more fiber help me feel more creative.
You know Phoebe....whatever it takes is fabulous!!!
I turn to collage and layer color, shapes and words. That frees me up.
Great suggestion Sharon....love it! Words are so important especially in collage...
I blame it on 5G 😢
Yeh get rid if your negative Husband who puts you off
That is a good point Gill....
loose creativity? Never. I am an infinite well of imagination.
John....so happy to hear that your imagination is infinite and a deep well of creativity.....congratulations and thanks for sharing...
Loved this video…QUESTION: how can I apply these ideas for card making? Last month I was incredibly creative and I made 8 cards in less than 2 weeks and they’re some of my best cards ever! I want that feeling back again but don’t know how to get it.
I make card, too. I find that I do a run of really great cards (that I like) and then a run of not-so-great-card (that I do not like). I find it's a cycle with me and what I think about the cards I do not like is that SOMEONE will like them. Or maybe I put a lower price on those. Upshot: I work through the "bad" ones to get to the "good" ones and at the end of the day, I have a lot of cards!
You got some great advice form @pilotrtc .. Cards are probably no different from fine art....it takes a person who loves what you do to buy. But you want to know how what I said applies to creating cards....the secret is this.....you paint for YOU....you create cards that YOU like. That is what people buy.....they buy YOU. Keep this in mind as it will take you far.....keep me posted on how you are doing as I am really interested.
@@pilotrtc I like the way you think and it makes sense…work through the bad to get to the good. Thanks a bunch
Art supplies are though the roof expensive.
Yes, they are but you can mix most colors without purchasing many colors.....don't let this stop you from creating...
Your amazing thank you
Thanks you Suzanne....you just made my day!!!
Just have them read the War of Art- it helps a lot’
That is an excellent book.....
This was perfect timing. The mess the entire world is in, on top of a toxic work environment (I’m getting out ASAP!). I have had a total block for months, nothing inspires me. I’m going to do what you said…hope this is what I need!
Whether this works or not you get back in the studio and create.....the world needs our voices and yours is important. Please let me know how it goes...
Hi Gwen. I'd never seen you on here prior, but when you mentioned "why are so many artists out there STUCK??" You hit the nail on the head for me! I'm going to go thru many of the comments on here and check out what others are saying! Thank you Gwen for these helpful tips!
You are so welcome Lynn....so glad you found me as I am happy to have you be part of the group...
Thanks Annie, and thanks Gwen Fox! "We all need to help everybody else as well as ourselves." I've always tried to do that with my art making and teaching and with my blog.
Pamela....I bet you have helped hundreds of people be better artists....isn't it great to do that....love it!!!
💜💜
Right back at you Melissa....love your purple hearts....
good cat food
Really?
If I don’t have enspiration , because I am panting and also sculpting, so I have alternative things to do.
What things do you do while your inspiration as taken a break? I would love to know as it helps others as well as myself.
I just saw this video and you, Gwen, for the first time this AM. Thank you for sharing these tips for getting our "mo-jo" back!!
You are very correct about negativity...and any negativity regardless of where it comes from breeds fear. Fear is almost the antithesis of creativity. I know that for many of the people I speak with today, this has been since the pandemic began. And i think there are a couple more factors to this: #1. We spend more time in the digital world than we did in our REAL world prior to 2020. To help solve that, I have begun giving myself "Digital-free" days! It has helped immensely!! I still take phone calls from family or friends, but I dont go to any device for anything else! It started out being a "once in a while thing" and for just a few hours, but now I take a WHOLE DAY every week! It has done wonders for my soul, my psyche, and my creativity!
#2. I dont think we interact with other people as much as we used to. I speak for myself, but, I have also observed that a lot of artists are kind of introverted a bit anyway, so this has been compounded and I know I have had to force myself to interact with others...not online...in-person and face-to-face. To challenge myself a little, I went to our HOA mtg a few months ago and extended an invitation to anyone who would want to create art, be it painting, crafting, hand-sewing...whatever they do that they can carry around, I invited them to a once-a-month "coffee-n-create" in my little studio. I thot maybe one or two people would show up...TEN people came! All different ages and all different types of creating!! We now meet every other week and we have to meet in the conference room of the little hotel up the street because there are FORTY of us! It is the highlight of my week when we meet! And I gain so much insipration from these wonderful people! There is a 10-yr old boy that crochets beautiful, artful items, there are painters like me, and even cross-stitchers( I didn’t even know that was still a "thing", lol!!)! The point is, we just engage each other and inspire each other and encourage one another!
You don't have to go to the extremes that i have gone to in the last 18 months, but i just think getting out of the digital world once in a while and back into the real world once in a while helps keep creativity rolling...at least it has for me, and for these others that I have become involved with.
I LOVE what you just posted....your comment not only helped me but a ton of other artists.....thank you so much!!!! I think your not having a digital day is brilliant....absolutely brilliant. Congratulations for offering the coffee-n-create.....what a great idea and look at what you have done....you have put your thought and creativity in the water and you now see the ripples of happiness you have created.....Oh girl...you are awesome.
@GwenFoxArtist thank you for the encouragement! These wonderful neighbors (all ages and all different "walks-of-life") are so inspiring to me! Thank you for being here and for encouraging all of us with your insight and your talent!🩷
I feel it’s the harsh ugly government, absolutely
I think they only think of themselves....
You are wonderful ! Thank you for those words of wisdom. M
You are so welcome....glad you liked them....it means a lot to know you took the time to comment...
Thank you Gwen! Great advice!
So glad you liked it Elizabeth....
Very good advice, thank you 😊
You are welcome Helen....thanks for commenting.
I can’t afford anything anymore
I totally understand but let's not listen to the news let's just go into our studio and create....we will win this battle!!!
Thanks Gwen - good suggestions
You are so welcome......
Love you, Gwen! ❤️🧡🩷
Love you right back Nita.....
Thank you Gwen!
You are so welcome Marina......thanks for taking the time to comment....keep painting!!!!!!!
Thank you Gwen ❤
You are so welcome....
great tips 🌹
Thanks....and thanks for taking the time to comment as lot as it means a lot....
Excellent ideas 🎉😍🎉
Thanks Catherine....Let me know if any work for you...
All your ideas worked for me, one time or another 👍
you do not convince me.....Art and creativity are not a " random " processes, artist is not a sick child...it's a science and knowledge and having a target and a mission.... if you don't know what you are really doing you will never get something valuable...the main problem of most is what is the definition of beauty and art.......you talking about that kind of art when you through some paint material on canvas in random and mix in random and just say " wow " for any trach you get..??
the real beauty is there in nature go and think, amuse yourself and try to understand....this is the real beginning and the correct one....
While I understand that you are saying that art is a discipline and a science, I think you have misconstrued her objective here. She isn't saying that just throwing color around is the end result: she is saying that doing this frees-up the individual to open up to seeing things and experiencing things differently. I am an artist of multiple different medias, a musician of multiple instruments, and a vocalist of multiple genres of music. I didn't get here without discipline... no artist becomes an artist without discipline. However, because of our sensitive nature that absorbs the world around us, at times, we need to allow ourselves to expell and express in nuanced ways. This can helps us get "unstuck" and loosen that creative block that so many are experiencing.
If you haven't and aren't experiencing that, then I am happy for you. However, many of us here are, and Gwen has given advice for how she deals with this. She isn't saying this should be your normal, everyday, "discipline", she is giving insight that has helped her break free from the creative block she has both dealt with and that she is observing. 😊
I am not trying to convince you of anything....I am trying to present an idea that I feel is super important and affects so many artists. Yes, art is a science and knowledge but it isn't just that....it is much more. I agree with you that you need to know what you want when you paint but you must also be willing to let go of this "want" and let the heart speak. With just science and knowledge one finds it hard to create with emotion and without emotion the painting doesn't speak.....it may be a good painting but I think you want one that has knowledge and emotion. That requires one to go inside the self to connect with spirit. Thank you for your comment as conversations such as this are helpful for all artists.
Very smart Gwen…from a wise lady!!!🥰🫶🫶
Oh girl...you are so kind....thank you...
@@GwenFoxArtist nope🥰…just honest!!!😉