It's easy to be self-critical when you feel pressured to make something extra awesome. Here are ways I prevent those rude thoughts from creeping in so I can keep my art fresh and fun!
Tell a lie
Every drawing has an ugly stage. Sometimes my art looks like my cat stepped in paint, walked on the paper, then rolled around in it. If I tell myself, "This is the beginning of a masterpiece!" I can push through and make something exciting.
Self pep talk
You know who else loves a pep talk? Our brilliant artist friend TJ Marston! She says starting with curiosity and a low-pressure mindset will free up your creativity.
When you ask yourself questions like, “What do I notice here?” or “How does this feel?” it shifts the focus from the outcome to the process, allowing you to stay open and fluid in your sketches. It’s all about embracing the exploration rather than stressing over the result!
Every word of TJ's is true - self pep talks are powerful! She inspired me to try it last week and it worked wonders.
Energizing music
I've been blasting 80's rock ballads all week while I work, which got me thinking about Axl Rose. When he was writing Sweet Child O' Mine, he probably wasn't thinking about how much he sucked, right? What's keeping us from approaching our practice with Axl's confidence and energy?
Tidy break
Giving yourself a quick tidy break can make your art flow like a river instead of molasses. I know I get super frustrated when the pencil or brush I want to work with goes missing. I’ve started to put away my toys like a good little artist when I'm finished for the day. It helps when I actually do it!
Prompt
Next time you draw, try to notice what thoughts show up. Write down any critical ones and think about how you might spin those in a more constructive way. For example, if I think “I can’t draw today!” I’ll write that down, then look at facts and possibilities.
Do I need a break?
Should I warm up with some blind contour drawings?
Is this a new subject or am I using a new material?
In the video
I start the series of illustrations with a little pep talk and share my whole process. Also… secret words are back!
How to participate:
Watch the video
Send me the secret word in a DM within the next week
I’ll comp you a month of membership!
