Working through creative block:
I'm guessing every artist knows the feeling. You start with energy, a vision forming in your mind. Colours swirl, shapes emerge, ideas flow. Then, somewhere along the way, the painting resists you. It stops feeling right, and the once-clear path turns into a tangle of doubts and false starts.
That’s where I am now. This painting has me completely blocked. I’ve painted and repainted sections, trying to coax the work into revealing itself, but nothing feels resolved. It’s frustrating, even defeating.
This isn’t the first time, and it won’t be the last. Creative blocks are a perennial problem for artists in every medium. The reasons vary: sometimes its the fear of "spoiling" it, other times it’s emotional or physical exhaustion. Sometimes, the painting simply doesn’t want to cooperate. (yes, let's blame the painting!)
When this happens, I’ve learned to try a few things and I thought I'd share them here:
Step Away. Often, distance brings clarity. I’ll spend time on something unrelated, like a walk, reading, or even working on another painting.
Change the Rules. If I’m stuck, it’s often because I’ve boxed myself into a particular way of thinking. Changing the medium, tools, or approach—like swapping brushes for palette knives—can open new possibilities.
Revisit Why I Started. I ask myself, “What was the original feeling or idea that inspired this work?” Returning to that can help me reconnect with the painting’s core.
Push Through. Sometimes, the only way out is through. Even if the result feels messy or incomplete, the act of continuing can break the block.
Let Go. Not every painting will work out. Sometimes, the best option is to set it aside—temporarily or permanently.
Right now, I’m cycling through these strategies, trying to find the one that will help me break out of this. What keeps me going is knowing this block is part of the process. If I push through—or let go—I’ll learn something that shapes my next piece.
If you’re stuck, know you’re not alone. The block is frustrating, but it’s also a sign that you’re grappling with something meaningful. The canvas fights back because it matters.
How do you work through creative block? I’d love to hear your thoughts or strategies in the comments below.
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