What to Do When You’re in a Rut.
I’m gonna be real with you, creatives: creative blocks are the artistic equivalent of hitting a brick wall. Sometimes, I'm in my studio, just… existing, hoping for a spark. Other times? I need a full-on creative escape. Think of it like wandering down that rainbow hallway in the photo—just letting myself get gloriously lost in the 'what ifs.'
This year? I needed a serious reboot. Health-wise, creatively, the whole thing. So, my bestie and I cooked up our own 'Creative 75'—a remix of the Hard 75, but with way more art. One of our rules? Diving into 'The Artist's Way' by Julia Cameron and tackling individual creative projects. Mine? A glorious trip to Mexico City for Art Week. And let me tell you, it was exactly what my soul needed.
Visiting Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul was like stepping into a magical realm. I could practically feel the energy of her animals, smell the amazing food, and imagine myself just chilling in her garden. Talk about inspiration! And Mexico City itself? Exquisite! The vibrant walls, the mind-blowing food, the electric art scene—it was a sensory explosion. Seriously, if you haven't been, book that ticket!
The big takeaway? Sometimes, kicking that creative rut means changing your scenery. And it doesn't have to be a grand adventure. Even a trip to your favorite local garden, beach, or hiking trail can work wonders. Movement? It's magic.
Here are 7 fun, inspiring ways to blast through that creative block:
Embrace the Glorious Mess: Make something intentionally terrible. Like, hilariously, wonderfully bad. No pressure, just pure, unadulterated play.
Get Your Groove On: Dance, walk, stretch, do a silly jig! Get that energy flowing and wake up your inner artist.
Try a Creative Tinder Date: Swipe right on a new medium! Paint if you write, sculpt if you dance. New tools, new sparks!
Make a Creative Playlist: Curate a soundtrack that sparks your imagination. Whether it’s for painting, writing, or daydreaming—music can shift your energy and help you tap into flow without pressure.
Time Travel to Your Old Art: Revisit your past creations! You might find a forgotten spark or a new direction.
Awkward Art Time: Create with your non-dominant hand! It's delightfully weird and silences that inner critic.
Do Absolutely Nothing (Seriously): Rest is a creative superpower. Stare at the clouds, nap, and let your mind wander. Your muse might just show up for a chill session.
Remember, creative blocks are just pit stops on the journey. Let's keep moving, keep playing, and keep creating!
“I am my own muse; I am the subject I know best. The subject I want to know better.”
— Frida Kahlo