by Allison Hickman

Created on: June 12, 2008   Last Updated: November 29, 2011

Similar to writer's block, artists go through artist's block whether it is drawing, painting or even doodling a story. I have sat down many times with an idea in my head and pencil to paper ready to create a drawing to paint and; nothing. I would say that just sitting down with an idea is enough, but I proved that to be wrong. Sometimes it is just better to push away from the art at hand and let the brain breath for awhile.

If I have to create something on someone else's time table, that is when it can become extra challenging. I usually require going through my own process of letting my mind wander and then going with the flow until that special idea pops into my head. I have a few helpful things that have helped me when faced with a deadline or request that requires very little "thought" time.

1. Keep an artist journal with you at all times. When an idea materializes, roughly jot it down. You never know when it will come in handy in situations such as the ones mentioned.

2. Referring, again to the journal, if you see something that you have an overwhelming urge to draw, do it. It doesn't have to be perfect, just make notes of any particular colors that may stand out to you as well as special features that you think you would like to attempt. When in the mood, recreate the scene.

3. Even if you don't think something artful, but it may fit the criteria of what has been asked of you, jot it down. The more back up you have, the more sparks will fly when that artist's block hits.

4. If the journal does not work (and sometimes it won't) simply click on some art sites on the web and surf around. Remember, you are looking for inspiration and there is a lot out there if you know where to look. For instance; my specialty is painting flowers and landscapes therefore, I will search old barns or floral landscapes and more than enough images catches my attention.

5. Try to be in the right mind set. If you have a cold or are just in a less than good mood, your art will reflect that. I notice that my best work is imagined and recorded on sunny days as opposed to the cloudy, overcast days. Sometimes, I push back a deadline simply because I cannot get the painting right because of dreary weather.

If you can, walk away from whatever it is you are trying to do and switch gears. I will mainly find something else creative to do to get me in that place to where I can produce my art again. Try cooking, baking or even a little gardening and you might be surprised at the results.

Learn more about this author, Allison Hickman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.