On creative blocks

Every artist faces creative blocks. Here is what I have learned about moving through them rather than fighting against them.

Recognizing the Block

The first step is acknowledging that you’re in a creative block. It’s easy to mistake it for laziness or lack of talent, but it’s neither. It’s a natural part of the creative cycle.

For me, blocks often come after periods of intense productivity. It’s as if my creative well needs time to refill.

What Helps

I’ve found that trying to force creativity rarely works. Instead, I:

• Change the medium: If I’m stuck with painting, I’ll sketch or write instead
• Go for walks: Physical movement often unlocks mental movement
• Look at other art: Not to copy, but to remind myself why I create
• Work small: Instead of a large canvas, I’ll fill pages in a small sketchbook
• Give myself permission: To make bad work, to experiment, to fail

The Gift in the Block

With time, I’ve come to see creative blocks not as obstacles but as signals. They tell me:

• I need rest
• I need new input
• I need to reflect on what I’m making and why
• I’m ready to evolve in a new direction

The work that emerges after a block is often different from what came before - deeper, more intentional, more myself.

Moving Forward

If you’re in a creative block right now, be patient with yourself. Keep showing up, even if the work feels forced at first. Trust that the flow will return.

Sometimes the most important creative act is simply maintaining the practice, trusting that inspiration will meet you there when you’re ready.