Artist block. The ugly side of the creation process. An artist’s worst nightmare. It is a sign of the creative well being tapped out, but it is much more than looking at a piece of paper and not getting an idea. It is stress, burnout, self-doubt, and many other external and internal factors. Let us look at some of the causes for art block and some ways we can tackle this figurative beast.
1.) WORKSPACE DISTRACTIONS
So let us get the easy one out of the way. How a space is maintained is very impactful to what an artist creates. A workspace that is cluttered or messy can make it tough to stay focused or be inspired, even something simple like good or bad lighting can factor into the creative mindset. It does not stop at your physical workspace. Frequent distractions, loud noises or misplacing your materials and supplies can both delay the creative process and frustrate the artist.
So what is the solution? Well, you start by organizing your space. An organized space is not always what some call “clean” but if it is orderly then a growing artist can allow themselves to focus on their art. You may also need to move your studio if your current location is too loud or filled with distractions.
2.) STRESS (INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL FACTORS)
While some people can adapt during times of stress, others can be stifled by it. External factors like a stressful job, political decisions, and concerns over the cost of living can halt creativity. But those are just the externals. Artists often struggle internally with perfectionism, burnout, and constantly comparing themselves to each other.
One of the best ways to alleviate these feelings is to take a break and take a step back. As great as technology is, it can also be a great hinderance on an artist’s work. Take a break and try reconnecting with the world through nature. Take yourself on a nature trail or have an “art date” with yourself and visit your local galleries and museums for inspiration.
3.) MENTAL FATIGUE
This is one of the hardest blocks to overcome. Artists can develop a perfectionist way of thinking. It is a natural thought process to have but this style of thinking can be detrimental. Spending long hours on giant projects or debating over an abundance of ideas can physically and mentally exhaust artists. This tiredness can also make the art block last even longer and these long stretches often come with feelings of self-doubt towards their artwork, their skills and even their purpose.
During this time, an artist can find it hard to be creative and challenge themselves which can lead to them burning themselves out.
One of the best ways to tackle this is to learn to fail towards success. Not every drawing will be a masterpiece, always look at each piece as a learning opportunity. Take other swirling ideas and attack them to identify any shortcomings. Look at your big projects and break them down to meet realistic goals and deadlines.
UPCOMING LOCAL EVENT: When Art Feels Hard: Thriving as an Artist
The Mixxer Community Space is hosting an artist support event! This is a free monthly event that creates a member-led support group. This group meet up helps artist navigate the challenges of maintaining a creative practice! Their goal is to foster a safe and supportive community where artists can connect and grow together. Think of it less as a lecture series and more of a collaborative space to tackle mental obstacles.
WHEN/WHERE: Feb 04, 2025 from 6:00-7:00pm. 1317 N. Martin Luther King Jr Dr. Winston Salem NC 27101
Link to Sign Up: When Art Feels Hard: Thriving as an Artist | WSMixxer
Words of Encouragement
These are only a few causes and solutions for art block but there can be other factors. It is important to be able to recognize the specific type of block that can help cultivate strategies to overcome them. Creativity is something that cannot be forced. Do your research and find artist support groups. Be sure to take a long break from your projects and take that time to reconnect with yourself and the world away from technology. The best way to fight art block is with information and inspiration.
Sources
Dix, A. (2024, November 30). What are creative blocks?.The Interaction Design Foundation. https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/topics/creative-block#:~:text=Sometimes%2C%20a%20designer%20may%20struggle,inspiration%20or%20a%20stagnant%20environment
Evora, M. (2024, April 27). 15 common causes of Art Block & How to overcome them. Marisol Evora. https://marisolevora.art/blogs/blog/15-common-causes-of-art-block-how-to-overcome-them
Heil, J. (2023, December 19). What causes creative block?. .RMCAD. https://www.rmcad.edu/blog/what-causes-creative-block#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20most%20common,craft%20is%20by%20actually%20creating.
Mixxer Community Space (n.d). When art feels hard: Thriving as an artist. WSMixxer. https://www.wsmixxer.org/event-details-registration/when-art-feels-hard-thriving-as-an-artist-2025-02-04-18-00
GREENSBORO COLLEGE ART COLUMN 