by Tamara M. McCarty

When life gets in the way and takes us away from creating, we need ideas to get us back on track.

Below are some tips to spark motivation:

1. Get back to basics

Many of us remember as children we would draw on everything.  We drew on notebook paper, school book covers, our lunchbox, and our bedroom walls (if we were lucky). Now is the time to go back to those memories. Find a quiet place and start drawing lines and simple shapes.  Then, add shadows and highlights throughout those lines and shapes.

2. Change locations

If you create in your studio, gather some supplies and create outside.  If you paint at home, paint in a different room.  If you paint on your easel, try painting on the floor.

3. Start small

Commit to creating 10 minutes everyday.  To keep track, sign and date each creation. Continue to do this for 4 weeks.  After a month, check your progress.

4. Use a different medium

Acrylic paint is my favorite medium, and I use it the majority of the time.  But, over the years I have taught myself how to enjoy other mediums such as watercolor, ink, colored pencils, pastels, and gouache. Using several mediums allows the mind to change and adjust which helps to keep the creativity flowing.

5. Make collage papers

Gather various types of paper; cardboard, notebook paper, printer paper, paper towels, craft paper, wrapping paper, etc. Let your mind be free and start doodling on each piece of paper.  Use pencils, paint, charcoal, pastels, markers, inks and varied sized brushes.  Spray some of the papers with water and spray some with isopropyl alcohol. Let them dry completely.  Tear them into different sizes and use them in your next project.

Below are examples of works I’ve finished using these motivation tips.

These are simple and effective tips that I have used for many years to help keep the motivation going.  Try them and let me know how they worked for you.  Reach out to me on Instagram @tamarasfineartstudio or on my website tamarasfineartstudio.com.

Until next time,

Tamara