Overcoming Artist’s Block: Tips for Getting Unstuck

Every artist, no matter how experienced, faces periods of creative block. Whether it’s staring at a blank canvas, feeling uninspired, or lacking the motivation to pick up your brush, artist’s block can be frustrating. The good news is that it’s temporary, and there are ways to get unstuck. If you’re feeling creatively blocked, these seven tips will help you reignite your passion for painting and get back into the flow.

1. Set Small, Achievable Goals

One of the reasons artist’s block feels so overwhelming is because the task of creating a full painting can seem daunting. To break through the block, start by setting small, achievable goals that feel manageable. Instead of focusing on finishing a complete piece, focus on creating a quick sketch or experimenting with colour mixing.

Try this: Set a timer for 10 minutes and challenge yourself to paint something small. This can be as simple as mixing two colours or painting a basic shape. The act of starting is often enough to break through the block.

2. Change Your Environment

Sometimes, your physical environment can contribute to creative block. If you’ve been working in the same space for a while, try changing your surroundings. A new environment can provide fresh perspectives and inspiration, whether it’s painting outdoors, setting up in a different room, or visiting a gallery for inspiration.

Try this: Take your sketchbook or a small canvas outside. A change of scenery, fresh air, and new colours can help spark creativity and give you new ideas for your work.

3. Let Go of Perfectionism

One of the biggest obstacles to creativity is the pressure to create something perfect. This mindset can lead to paralysis, where the fear of making mistakes prevents you from even starting. To overcome this, give yourself permission to make imperfect art.

Try this: Create a "throwaway" painting with the mindset that it doesn’t have to be perfect. Use it as a space to experiment, play, and let go of the need for everything to look polished. This can free you from the pressure of perfection and help you find joy in the process again.

4. Experiment with New Techniques

If you’ve been feeling stuck, it might be time to step outside your usual routine and try something new. Experimenting with different techniques, materials, or styles can break you out of your creative rut and help you see things from a fresh perspective.

Try this: Switch up your tools or medium—try palette knives if you usually use brushes, or introduce a new colour palette. You don’t have to commit to a new technique long-term, but simply playing with something different can help shake off creative stagnation.

5. Limit Your Options

Too many options can sometimes lead to overwhelm. If you’re struggling to start, try limiting your palette or focusing on a single subject. By reducing the number of decisions you need to make, you’ll be able to focus more on the process rather than overthinking each step.

Try this: Limit yourself to just three colours or paint a simple object in your home. By narrowing your focus, you’ll find it easier to dive in without feeling overwhelmed by too many possibilities.

6. Revisit Old Work

Looking back at your old paintings or sketches can be a great way to reignite your creative spark. Often, there are unfinished ideas or themes in your past work that can inspire new directions. Reworking an old piece or expanding on an earlier idea can help you move forward.

Try this: Pull out an unfinished painting or a piece you felt unsure about. See if there’s a way to bring new life to it—maybe adding a new layer or adjusting the colours will spark a new idea.

7. Take a Break

Sometimes the best way to overcome artist’s block is to step away for a while. Forcing yourself to create when you’re feeling blocked can often make the situation worse. Taking a break to recharge and clear your mind can lead to a creative breakthrough when you least expect it.

Try this: Take a few days off from painting and focus on other creative or relaxing activities. Read a book, watch a movie, or go for a walk. When you return to your painting practice, you’ll likely feel refreshed and ready to dive back in.

Final Thoughts

Artist’s block is a natural part of the creative process, but it doesn’t have to stop you from creating. By setting small goals, changing your environment, letting go of perfectionism, and experimenting with new techniques, you can overcome the block and reignite your creativity. Remember, it’s okay to take breaks and give yourself grace—creativity will return when you least expect it.

Keep Splashing Colours!