There are many ways to experience an empty creative tank – sometimes it’s just “I have no ideas.” Or “I don’t have the skills to create what’s in my head.” Any thoughts that paralyze you can result in a big blank page in front of you without any hope of that changing.

I experienced that empty creative hole inside me after last week’s epic alcohol marker series and a new class….and boy oh boy did that hit hard! I had to find my way out, and I think last night, I actually did.

Tutorial: How I refilled my creative tank

Watch the video below and scroll to the end to leave comments or questions — or click HERE to watch it on YouTube and leave comments over there. I read both dutifully!

Recreate old art

Find a piece of art you made a while back, whether a physical one or a digital photo of it. Remake it now with your current skill level. It’s a great way to visibly see what your growth has been! This is the original painting:

Change up the medium

You can use a current favorite; a few months ago I tried this in watercolor and made it a winter scene:

But last night, late in the studio when all was quiet, I got out a medium I haven’t used in a while…a ballpoint pen! It’s a super fine point so gives a thin line for excellent detail. This is in a sketchbook I picked up in an airport, by the way. Not even a brand name on it. Draw on anything! When it comes to JUST MAKING, that’s the idea. Sit down and do it.

More on Artventure

I have more of a personal post at Artventure right now, so I recommend having a read over there if you need a little encouragement when you’re stuck. The community there is growing and thriving, and they’re the ones that pulled me out of my hole last night. I’m so grateful for them!

Supplies

1. Uniball Signo Gel Pen .28 
2. Sketchbook – a no name brand I picked up at an airport! Draw. On. Anything.

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