This (non-transcript 😅) reflection is a summary of the Art Insights podcast that I held with artist Adi Kichel on X Spaces recently. We discussed what creativity is and how to find inspiration as an artist.
The Spark of Inspiration:
Inspiration can strike anywhere, anytime. Adi and I used to meet to go for long walks in Borghese Gardens. She still walks there every day. She’s telling me how the landscape is changing every single day- summer is here, the sun is bright. I used to teach yoga in that park. The sound of the parrots flying above and the trees rustling had a real effect on our practice. When you find that inspiration, those moments of clarity, that feeling of belonging- do your art. That is pure inspiration. You can’t wait for the muse to visit. You have to go find your muse.
Be open to new experiences and different art forms because they can spark unexpected ideas. I use podcasts and instagram reels to get an inside taste of projects in the art world I didn’t know about before. I dive deep into the art world. (have you heard the podcast Art Smack by Jerry Gogosian and Annie Taylor? I can’t tear myself away!) I learn about artists and art history. (Have you seen Tatyana’s videos called About Art? She’s fantastic!) I get great recommendations for cultural events, books, museums and more. Social media can be a great tool if you use it right.
Pay attention to the world around you – everyday moments can be sources of inspiration. Adi and I are both cultivating conversations with people that prompt our artwork and writing. We both do research. Why does the world work the way it does? What part does physics or philosophy play in the world around us? Art inspiration is basically asking the universe to tell you more.
Fueling Creativity:
Creativity is a muscle that needs exercise – the more you create, the easier it becomes. We talked about the idea of the blank page or the blank canvas. It taunts you. It intimidates you. But if you’re exercising your creativity you’re not afraid to just start writing with a stream of consciousness or putting brush down to paint like a child. Just wander. Find your happiness. Go with the flow. You MUST find that flow. Flow is what makes great art.
Don't be afraid to experiment and take risks. We’ve all made work we thought was terrible. Every artist, writer, musician, creator has thought that way. But you have to get your work out there anyway. Edit, fix, revise, change it, but get it out the door or off the computer. You have to set it free. Pushing boundaries can lead to breakthroughs. Yes, yes, we’re all afraid of criticism. What if they hate my work? Here’s a hard truth: your work isn’t for everyone. But it IS for someone. And they will never see it if you don’t risk setting it free. (PS- you’re probably GREAT! 🙌)
Surround yourself with other creative people. Their energy and ideas can be contagious. They will say something that resonates. They will lift you up. You will lift them up. All artists should have some community they can be a part of. Get yourself a mastermind group, find an artistic BFF on a friend app, go join a Meetup. There used to be places for artists to gather and have community (hello Lost Generation 👋).
Overcoming Blocks:
Everyone experiences creative blocks because it's a normal part of the process. When that happens, say that it’s just not your day. Adi struggled with this yesterday. She said the work just wasn’t flowing. She put on music, danced it out, rearranged her studio, and finally just went home. Some days are for incubating. They make the days that are spent creating just that much more precious.
Take a break and come back to your work with fresh eyes. Even if you’re not blocked, time off is good for the soul and good for your work.
Try a new creative exercise or challenge yourself with a different medium. Adi uses textiles in her work. She used to be in fashion. It adds a dimension of depth to her art. I sometimes paint, write poetry, or do graphic design. It helps me say things more clearly. You won’t see this, but I’m writing in bullet points right now. I’ll edit those out by the final draft and you’ll be left with clean paragraphs. But for now I’m creating with a different style of writing because today this is how my thoughts are organized.
The Role of Discipline:
Art is a journey. Inspiration is important, but discipline is what turns ideas into art. Showing up regularly is what makes you an artist and not just a hobbyist.
Keep pushing yourself to grow as an artist. Creativity is innate. We have it as children but it needs to be fostered. Talk to a mentor. Take a class. Ask other professionals about their work. Have influencers who lead you in your journey. You must develop your creativity.
Fan the flames of inspiration when they come. Ideas will fight with each other in your head. After the inspiration comes work. Research. Organize your thoughts. Use a mood board or sketch book or Pinterest board or whatever it is that you do to get the mess in your brain out to a starting place where you can begin to shape it.
Art & Business:
Artists need to understand the business side of art to build a sustainable career. Some artists have people who do that for them. Some artists do this on their own. Some artists have a collective group of resources to get this done. But here’s the thing about being a “professional artist” or “working artist” - you want to sell your work. You want to have an audience. You want to be recognized for your art. That, my friend, is a business.
Finding your artistic voice is crucial for differentiating yourself in the market. Understand your full identity. No one is you. You be you. You’re good at you- no one else is you. There is no competition in art (not really), because we all make each other better. There is space for everyone.
Building relationships with galleries, collectors, and other art professionals is essential. And if you’re anti-system, don’t want to be a sellout, or whatever other distrust you have for the unregulated, mysterious, closed-off system of the art world, then at least know your enemy. It’s the art world. Either play the game or do it your own way, but be there and with your own identity to forge the relationships you need. Be very honest with yourself about where you want to go and with which skills you want to develop your art. You’re an artist- get your work out there.
This list provides a framework for understanding how inspiration and creativity fuel artistic expression. It’s a calling to feed your creativity in nature, with movement, and in communities. Know yourself and practice improving your work. Then share, sell, and show. Remember, the artistic journey is unique for everyone – find what works for you and keep creating!
Thank You 🙌 Merci 🫶 Grazie 👍
Thank you for reading Art Advisor. When you open, read, share, like, and comment it really makes me feel supported in my art (writing, educating, and advising) as I strive to support others in theirs. If you support the arts, subscribing, liking, and sharing are the best things you can do for us artists (air kisses!).
I’m expanding my work in the arts, and am working on expanded content and various forms of secret things 😀. Art Advisor will always have a free version here on Substack, but look for paid subscription offerings coming soon. You’re going to 🩷 it!
Nice job. A positive message. Showing up is half the battle…an openness to the world makes a huge difference.