The past few months have been very challenging. We have quarantined, spent countless hours on Zoom, lost family and friends, worried about the present and future, and used up much of our reserve. We’ve missed exhibits, classes, and critique groups.
While art practices are often largely solitary, this does not necessarily mean isolated. So as we begin to get warmer weather, sunnier skies, and more flexibility to resume part or all of our regular pursuits, it is a perfect time to look for new sources of inspiration to maintain a healthy outlook, and also to inspire our art practices.
Whatever your muse, consider new things to spark creation. For example, if nature is your usual inspiration, consider something else to get started, like photos of loved ones. If architecture is your typical starting point, try reflecting on experiences that make you happy, such as boating or fishing. And if you are usually inspired by other cultures, allow a social justice issue to be the spur for your next work.
One of the wonderful things about being an artist is that there are endless subjects and ways of expressing and creating. Efforts that start out feeling uncomfortable or awkward could be the ones to lead us down exciting new paths. Now is an opportunity to take a fresh look around, find what speaks to you, and discover new sources of inspiration.
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