Now that life has gone back to being semi-normal most of us are short on time when it comes to doing things that bring us joy.This is especially true for those who work or study full time. It can be impossible to fit in any alone time let alone starting a new creative project, which is probably the last thing on your mind.
We think that expressing yourself is vital so if art resonates with you then it’s important to make it a priority. Here are 10 ways to bring more art into your life.
1) Go for a walk and clear your mind.
Be one with your surroundings and see if inspiration arrives. It may not, and that’s ok. Make sure to take a notebook or sketchbook to jot down anything that comes to mind.
2) Read a book.
Pick up a really good book or check out blogs that challenge you and teach you new things. Podcasts are also another option if you aren’t so into reading. Listening to podcasts allows you to experience a dramatic effect that reading a book doesn’t create which builds a better learning experience.
3) Take pictures of interesting things.
Taking a picture allows us to focus all our attention on the present moment and preserve it forever.
4) Find art events in your community.
Check out a community theatre, free concert in the park or a new exhibit at a local museum. There’s a high chance you’ll find at least one piece in the exhibit or a moment in the performance that speaks to you.
5) Music
Listen to uplifting, soothing and inspiring music to get into a creative mindset.
6) Take your art seriously.
Whether you are selling your art for profit or just enjoy art for fun, make sure you take your art seriously by treating your work with respect as well as accepting that you are an ‘artist’ or a ‘creative’.
7) Embrace your inner child
Children have a carefree mindset that we often lose when we grow up. Embrace your inner child, try introducing things from your childhood to your life like getting in touch with your emotions, eating your favourite childhood snack or playing a game you loved as a child. Doing this can inspire your next art piece.
8) Figure out what’s holding you back from getting started or finishing an art piece.
Often there is something that is holding an artist back such as the perception that something must be ‘perfect’ (whatever that means) or ‘finished’ but art doesn’t have to have an end point. Art therapy is all about the process rather than working towards a particular goal or outcome. Your artwork is a form of your own imagination and creation, there is no need to be afraid of perfection or failure.
9) Movie
Watching a movie can also trigger creative juices to flow.
10) Use your imagination and invite creativity into your life.
The more you use your imagination; the more ideas will come to you. You may like to carry around a sketchbook, notebook or a smartphone for any ideas that may occur.
We’re here to motivate you because we know the importance and benefits of art on our mental and physical health. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up that paint brush, start sketching in your sketchbook and make some art magic.