Blog 6:21:20 Copyright 2020 David Limrite Artist Teacher Coach Mentor Avoiding Creativity.jpg

“The object isn’t to make art, it’s to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.”

Robert Henri, Artist/Educator

Avoiding Creativity

I have talked to a lot of artists in the last several months who have been avoiding their creativity. And, it breaks my heart to hear their reasons why.

Several of those I have talked to are too concerned with all of the things going on in the world right now to engage with their creativity. Many of those are consumed with watching the news.

Lots of artists are too frightened, worried and unsure to even think of being creative.

Many are feeling too raw and vulnerable to even think about making art.

Still others are too angry to create.

And, I don’t blame them any of them for feeling the way that they do.

I have felt many of these same feelings as well in the last three months.

At some point early on, (I don’t know precisely when that was, or what caused this shift in my thinking), I reminded myself how much my creativity mattered to me, and how much I love to engage in the activities of drawing and painting. I also reminded myself how much better I feel when I engage with my creativity. Rather than avoid it.

So, I started drawing and painting again. And, it did make me feel better!

Being creative did not solve any of the worlds problems, but it brought a little happiness back into my life, gave me purpose and allowed me to express myself in a non-destructive way. It also made me feel a bit more supported by the universe. Rather than feeling at odds with it.

So, for those of you who are avoiding your creativity right now, I want you to at least consider re-engaging with your creative pursuits. It does not matter what you make. It does not matter how good or bad it is. What matters is that you are engaged in the process of creating something. Anything!

I am not necessarily saying that you have to flip the switch from not painting one day to painting the next day. Although, that would be great if you did. Just consider giving over to your creativity. Start by looking through some art books. Go out to your studio to revisit and re-acquaint yourself with you past art work (finished and unfinished). Take an unsuccessful painting and start painting back into it. Create some abstract grounds for future use. Pick up a sketchbook and doodle. Take a walk with a camera.

If nothing else, at least you will distract yourself for awhile.

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Start with something familiar or safe.

The important thing is to re-ignite your passion for creating. And then, fan the flame.

I can tell you from my recent experience, if you do, you will feel better.

Think of it as beginning to support your creativity, as opposed to avoiding it.

Best,

David