5 Things You Can Do To Combat Art Block

Beginning this blog, I had to think of things that all artists can relate to or might need help with. It's not always easy being an artists and art block is one of the many things that can get in your way. Many tips and tricks exist to counteract this all but common issue, but these are my Top five ways on how to combat art block. 

1. Draw What You Like

Sometimes art block occurs when you are uninspired or lack the excitement and motivation to draw. What I have found is that using the things you like can quite literally pull you out of art block. I had been in art block for months on end and only made drawings occasionally so that content was being pumped out. I like drawing, but sometimes it can feel like a chore and induce immense art block. It's not the best idea to force yourself to draw things you're not even excited to draw and can even make the art block last longer. 

Up until recently I was not motivated or focused enough to draw anything, but then one day I went out with a friend and watched The Batman. What else can I say other than I was captivated and hyped about the movie and it's characters. I became hyper-fixated on specifically Riddler who was played by none other than one of my favorite actors, Paul Dano. Up until watching the movie, I had been drawing about once every month, but now I have been drawing Riddler fanart pretty much every week and it has sparked other ideas and drawings. I'm drawing more because I've found something I am excited about and indulged in it.

To sum it all up, drawing things you like can give you a huge boost and start up into drawing other things as well, therefore pulling you out of art block. 

2. Re-draw Old Art

 I have spoken to many other artists and have even come across videos on Tiktok, Instagram, etc., and I'd have to say that re-drawing old art is one of the most popular ways to drag yourself out of art block. 

I haven't done this myself very often simply because I forget it's even an option, but when I have, not only does it help me lessen art block, but it also helps me to see how far I really have come as an artist. It doubles as a confidence and motivational boost and who can complain about that? 

The blueprint and idea is already there, so all you have to do is draw it again with your current skills and style. This is good because sometimes you just need direction and a foundation to get yourself going again. Go ahead and pull out your folders and sketchbooks of art from the past and pick the ones you'd like to redraw.

3. Go Out

Part of the process of getting out of art block is to take a break. Most art blocks happen after many hours and days of drawing; sometimes after a burst of constant drawing, to which I am guilty of. However, there is a huge difference in taking a break in bed on your phone, watching videos for hours on end, and actually getting up to do something stimulating like going out. 

Now you don't have to splurge money to go out during your art block. It can be as simple as taking a walk or visiting a park or something, but don't be afraid to "treat yourself" every now and then; especially if you draw for a living. More than likely, you've been working way too much without breaks in-between and are deserving of taking some fresh air in whatever way you feel necessary and desire. I personally like to call up a friend or family member and go out to watch a movie or go to the mall to window shop. However, I do occasionally treat myself to either a snack, meal, or item while I'm at the mall. The reason I tend to go to movie theatres though is because it's both a stimulating/exciting experience, and it leaves me full of either thoughts, ideas, satisfaction, or inspiration; a perfect brew of passion to counter art block. On that note, make some plans to maybe go to a café, biking, your yard, a convenience store, you name it.

4. Do Some Cleaning

This is either a dreadful or satisfying method for an artist, but sometimes it can be both. I don't know any artist that hasn't fallen to unorganized messes and cluttered spaces. I don't even know if artists that stay organized and clean even exist. We're creative and with creativity there is usually build up of some kind of mess; whether it be your room, office, or brain even. What's important is that these messes be addressed eventually and what better time to than when you are unable to draw.

In a sense, one of the factors that play into art burn is definitely a chaotic area around you. Who wants to draw in a room full of clothes that aren't put away, or papers and materials scattered everywhere, or that coffee on the desk that has built up mold? What I can say is that most people that struggle with mess around their work, including myself, have a stemmed off issue that causes that neglect towards your area and sometimes yourself. Personally, it's usually my depression that causes me to not properly care for myself or my personal unorganized and messy areas; which then also affects my ability to draw and work properly. 

Some ways to get yourself into cleaning is number one: Just do it. Don't wait for a better time because more than likely you do have at least 30 minutes to an hour available to do some or all the cleaning. I usually have to bully myself, but some ways to be nicer to yourself about it is to get some music, a podcast, or a video you can listen to while you're cleaning. Grab a huge trash bag, a broom, vacuum, and get to it. Wash your blankets and sheets during all that cleaning so that you're not only unable to lay back down in comfort in the middle of cleaning, but you also get the reward of the smell and sensation of your bed being clean and refreshed after you're done. I promise doing these things, tricking yourself, and setting it up is not only good for combating art block, but also good for your mind.

5. Explore & Look at Other Artists

Art burn happens for all kinds of reasons, but I like to think that sometimes it's a sign for you to explore outside of your comfort zone and check out other artists you haven't seen before. 

The easiest way to do this is to scroll through Pinterest or other social media feeds. Now, I know I said it's not the best idea to sit on your phone during art block, but if you are actively looking for inspiration and exploring then it wont be an issue that leaves you stagnant in your art. Avoiding getting lost and distracted with unrelated videos and posts is definitely a struggle, but keeping yourself self aware will be the key factor in how much you achieve while surfing the internet. Maybe you could sit at a table, desk, or café while you do some digging and exploring for art. There are many ways you could go about it, just with this tactic, it can either be a hit or miss depending how you conduct it all. 

At the end of the day, wandering around in the art world just might give you the push you need to get out of art block and maybe even learn and see new things to help improve and evolve your current art. 

Notes & Takeaway

Art block is a normal and common thing that is letting you know it is time for a break. So as much as you'd like to hurry and get back to it, take it as a chance to do these things that will benefit you in the long run. I am in no way a professional, but all I can do is share what I do know. I hope you enjoyed this post. Please feel free to leave comments on what you liked, didn't like, or things you find helpful that wasn't mentioned here. As artists we all should look out for and help each other.