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How do you find inspirations/ideas?
I often feel like drawing but don't know what to draw
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6 answers
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
I've found myself in similar situations quite a few times. Here are some suggestions that have really made a difference for me:
What to draw generators (websites and apps)
Scribbling a continues line, and drawing what you see form the shape
Pick a word, and draw what you associate that word to
Open apps like google images, Pinterest, Instagram, and Behance and search art for some ideas
Lastly go for a walk, and look for textures, shapes, and images that can spark some inspiration
Isabel recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Ellen’s Answer
Hi Yili
Good questions, something that all artists have to think about...what do I want to say with my artwork? Sometimes it is not easy to figure this out. You've already gotten some really good answers, so here are a few more ideas.
Keep a small sketchbook and just doodle on a DAILY basis. A lot of young artists think that every drawing they do has to be a perfect masterpiece, worthy of a gold frame, but this is not true. Drawing can be a way of just working out ideas. Just draw whatever comes into your head, or draw what you see in front of you, or draw something that makes you happy, or whatever. Draw your breakfast everyday for the next week; or draw your favorite moment at school that day, or draw what you see out of the school bus window in the morning. These are not finished drawings, but just sketches for future ideas. No one ever has to see them, so be as bold, silly, scary, and sloppy as you want. You can also write about ideas in your sketchbook; things you saw that you liked, things that made you happy or sad, or things you want to think about more, or things you want to research. Look over your sketchbook occasionally, and patterns might begin to emerge, such as you might find that you like drawing people, or that you are really good at drawing animals, or that you really enjoy drawing imaginary scenes. These sketches could be your next inspiration.
Take a look at the artwork you have already created and see if there are one or two pieces that you like and could think about doing more of. For example, that art class assignment on drawing houses, might make you want to do more elaborate or fantastical homes. Which artworks do you feel best about? Maybe do some more of those, but in a different way. For example, that cute drawing of a cat you did in art class, maybe you could do some more cats in different poses, or maybe different animals. Take a look at other artists' artwork. Go to a museum or gallery, or go online to museums and find artists who you like, or who might inspire you. (This is not to copy other artists exactly, but to look at their work for ideas.)
A lot of my inspiration comes from looking at the world around me, flowers, trees, insects, landscapes, and so on, and wanting to interpret what I see in my art. Other artists like to draw or paint from their imaginations, while other artists just want to create artworks with no subject matter, just colors and shapes. There are lots of different art styles and subject matter to explore in your art, and it may take time to find your way, so keep an open mind and just enjoy doodling and making art. Your art classes in high school should introduce you to different approaches to making art, so be sure to take art. And don't forget to talk to your art teacher, he or she could give you suggestions for your art, since they will know you and your art skills best.
Best wishes. Hope this helps.
Good questions, something that all artists have to think about...what do I want to say with my artwork? Sometimes it is not easy to figure this out. You've already gotten some really good answers, so here are a few more ideas.
Keep a small sketchbook and just doodle on a DAILY basis. A lot of young artists think that every drawing they do has to be a perfect masterpiece, worthy of a gold frame, but this is not true. Drawing can be a way of just working out ideas. Just draw whatever comes into your head, or draw what you see in front of you, or draw something that makes you happy, or whatever. Draw your breakfast everyday for the next week; or draw your favorite moment at school that day, or draw what you see out of the school bus window in the morning. These are not finished drawings, but just sketches for future ideas. No one ever has to see them, so be as bold, silly, scary, and sloppy as you want. You can also write about ideas in your sketchbook; things you saw that you liked, things that made you happy or sad, or things you want to think about more, or things you want to research. Look over your sketchbook occasionally, and patterns might begin to emerge, such as you might find that you like drawing people, or that you are really good at drawing animals, or that you really enjoy drawing imaginary scenes. These sketches could be your next inspiration.
Take a look at the artwork you have already created and see if there are one or two pieces that you like and could think about doing more of. For example, that art class assignment on drawing houses, might make you want to do more elaborate or fantastical homes. Which artworks do you feel best about? Maybe do some more of those, but in a different way. For example, that cute drawing of a cat you did in art class, maybe you could do some more cats in different poses, or maybe different animals. Take a look at other artists' artwork. Go to a museum or gallery, or go online to museums and find artists who you like, or who might inspire you. (This is not to copy other artists exactly, but to look at their work for ideas.)
A lot of my inspiration comes from looking at the world around me, flowers, trees, insects, landscapes, and so on, and wanting to interpret what I see in my art. Other artists like to draw or paint from their imaginations, while other artists just want to create artworks with no subject matter, just colors and shapes. There are lots of different art styles and subject matter to explore in your art, and it may take time to find your way, so keep an open mind and just enjoy doodling and making art. Your art classes in high school should introduce you to different approaches to making art, so be sure to take art. And don't forget to talk to your art teacher, he or she could give you suggestions for your art, since they will know you and your art skills best.
Best wishes. Hope this helps.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Yili
Updated
Dionte’s Answer
Finding inspiration and ideas is a deeply personal and subjective process, but there are several strategies that can help you cultivate artistic inspiration. Here are some approaches that may spark your creativity and lead to new ideas:
Observe the world around you: Take the time to truly observe your surroundings. Pay attention to the colors, shapes, patterns, and textures in nature, architecture, people, or everyday objects. Explore different environments, travel to new places, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Inspiration often lies in the small details that others may overlook.
Embrace curiosity: Maintain a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world. Ask questions, explore different perspectives, and challenge assumptions. Curiosity can lead you to unique and unexpected ideas by encouraging you to dig deeper and discover new connections.
Engage with other art forms: Look beyond your own artistic medium and explore different art forms such as music, literature, dance, theater, or film. Experiencing different forms of expression can provide fresh perspectives, ignite your imagination, and spark new ideas.
Seek diverse influences: Expose yourself to a wide range of influences and perspectives. Engage with art and literature from various cultures, historical periods, and genres. Attend exhibitions, visit galleries, and read books or articles that introduce you to different ideas and styles. The more diverse your influences, the broader your creative palette becomes.
Keep a sketchbook or journal: Carry a sketchbook or journal with you at all times. Use it to capture fleeting ideas, jot down observations, and create quick sketches or doodles. These visual and written records can serve as a rich source of inspiration and a repository for future projects.
Collaborate and exchange ideas: Engage in discussions and collaborations with fellow artists or creative individuals. Sharing ideas, bouncing thoughts off one another, and collaborating on projects can lead to unexpected and inspiring results. Participate in workshops, join art communities, or attend creative events to connect with like-minded individuals.
Embrace solitude and reflection: Give yourself the space and time to be alone with your thoughts. Solitude allows for deep introspection and reflection, enabling you to explore your innermost ideas and emotions. Disconnect from distractions and carve out moments of stillness to let your mind wander and discover new creative pathways.
Take risks and embrace experimentation: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and try new techniques, materials, or subject matters. Push the boundaries of your artistic practice and embrace the unknown. Taking risks and experimenting can lead to breakthroughs and unique ideas that differentiate your work.
Remember, finding inspiration is an ongoing and dynamic process. It requires an open mind, a willingness to explore, and an appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world around us. By incorporating these strategies into your creative routine, you can cultivate a constant flow of ideas and embark on a truly inspiring artistic journey.
Observe the world around you: Take the time to truly observe your surroundings. Pay attention to the colors, shapes, patterns, and textures in nature, architecture, people, or everyday objects. Explore different environments, travel to new places, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Inspiration often lies in the small details that others may overlook.
Embrace curiosity: Maintain a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world. Ask questions, explore different perspectives, and challenge assumptions. Curiosity can lead you to unique and unexpected ideas by encouraging you to dig deeper and discover new connections.
Engage with other art forms: Look beyond your own artistic medium and explore different art forms such as music, literature, dance, theater, or film. Experiencing different forms of expression can provide fresh perspectives, ignite your imagination, and spark new ideas.
Seek diverse influences: Expose yourself to a wide range of influences and perspectives. Engage with art and literature from various cultures, historical periods, and genres. Attend exhibitions, visit galleries, and read books or articles that introduce you to different ideas and styles. The more diverse your influences, the broader your creative palette becomes.
Keep a sketchbook or journal: Carry a sketchbook or journal with you at all times. Use it to capture fleeting ideas, jot down observations, and create quick sketches or doodles. These visual and written records can serve as a rich source of inspiration and a repository for future projects.
Collaborate and exchange ideas: Engage in discussions and collaborations with fellow artists or creative individuals. Sharing ideas, bouncing thoughts off one another, and collaborating on projects can lead to unexpected and inspiring results. Participate in workshops, join art communities, or attend creative events to connect with like-minded individuals.
Embrace solitude and reflection: Give yourself the space and time to be alone with your thoughts. Solitude allows for deep introspection and reflection, enabling you to explore your innermost ideas and emotions. Disconnect from distractions and carve out moments of stillness to let your mind wander and discover new creative pathways.
Take risks and embrace experimentation: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and try new techniques, materials, or subject matters. Push the boundaries of your artistic practice and embrace the unknown. Taking risks and experimenting can lead to breakthroughs and unique ideas that differentiate your work.
Remember, finding inspiration is an ongoing and dynamic process. It requires an open mind, a willingness to explore, and an appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world around us. By incorporating these strategies into your creative routine, you can cultivate a constant flow of ideas and embark on a truly inspiring artistic journey.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Yili
Updated
Sérgio’s Answer
Hi Yili!
One teacher of mine once told me something really simple and it works for me, not only to drawing but many different topics.
Just observe, let your eyes and mind circle around in where you are
Exercise yourself for a couple of minutes anytime: in a queue, at home, at school, waiting for a bus. You'll notice that slowly you start seeing small details and even behaviors that will inspire you.
Stop and observe for a couple of minutes whenever you're in a queue (in example instead of paying attention to your phone)
Start a visual diary (just register anything that catches your attention)
One teacher of mine once told me something really simple and it works for me, not only to drawing but many different topics.
Just observe, let your eyes and mind circle around in where you are
Exercise yourself for a couple of minutes anytime: in a queue, at home, at school, waiting for a bus. You'll notice that slowly you start seeing small details and even behaviors that will inspire you.
Sérgio recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Yili
Updated
Carrie’s Answer
As an illustrator in my free time, I totally understand this feeling. The itch to create yet lacking the source to pour it into. Nothing is scarier than a blank page! Below are a few ways that I try to clear a path for myself so the evenings I'm called to draw, there are no roadblocks to that creative energy.
Long term strategy: figure out what subjects you enjoy drawing the most. Birds? Monsters? Eyeballs? Explore what medium(s) you enjoy the most. Whatever they are, you can use those subjects and materials as a catalyst for when you get stuck. They will also be the things that define your unique style and approach.
In order to see that long term strategy through, I've listed a few tactical approaches you might consider. Mix / match / make them your own. In the meantime, I'm sending you lots of creatives vibes on your artistic journey!
Using one of my fave subjects, I try to sketch out what it might become when combined it with something else. eg. What does a bird + banana look like? Bird + shoe? Bird + boat, etc
Whenever I'm out and about and inspiration strikes, I jot the idea into my notes app for later. Then when I'm inspired to draw, I look through those notes and can grab an idea to pursue. Over time, your backlog of ideas will grow.
You might consider that your itch to create will take different shapes and you can group your art into stages that you can then choose from to suit your mood. For example, I categorise my illustrations into 3 stages: concept sketch + meat & bones + refinements. When I feel the itch to draw, I think to myself which one of those stages I have the energy for. Starting net new each time can feel daunting, sometimes I just want to play with color for a piece so I'll go find an unfinished piece in need of refinement.
Attend life drawing classes and take risks there. Even if human bodies aren't your thing. They will teach you a lot about how you approach drawing and see shape & form, light & shadow.
Invite friends over for art nights. Have them bring other mediums. Explore together. This will spark more ideas than you realise.
Long term strategy: figure out what subjects you enjoy drawing the most. Birds? Monsters? Eyeballs? Explore what medium(s) you enjoy the most. Whatever they are, you can use those subjects and materials as a catalyst for when you get stuck. They will also be the things that define your unique style and approach.
In order to see that long term strategy through, I've listed a few tactical approaches you might consider. Mix / match / make them your own. In the meantime, I'm sending you lots of creatives vibes on your artistic journey!
Carrie recommends the following next steps:
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Yili
Updated
Wendi’s Answer
Hi Yili,
Try what is called intuitive drawing or painting. Thinking about technique or what to draw comes from the mind and that can block creativity. Sit with a sketchbook or blank canvas, close your eyes and take three or four deep breaths. Keep your eyes closed this helps tap into your feeling brain rather than your thinking brain. Start moving the pencil, paintbrush or whatever you're using. Keep it moving and don't think about what it looks like. After a few minutes of this the creative juices will begin to flow and its amazing what can come forward. This is the creative process. It has no limits and what you come up with is unique to you and isn't right or wrong. This technique has helped me so much when I let go of the outcome and focus on the process I create beautiful art. Hope this makes sense!
Blessings
Wendi
Try what is called intuitive drawing or painting. Thinking about technique or what to draw comes from the mind and that can block creativity. Sit with a sketchbook or blank canvas, close your eyes and take three or four deep breaths. Keep your eyes closed this helps tap into your feeling brain rather than your thinking brain. Start moving the pencil, paintbrush or whatever you're using. Keep it moving and don't think about what it looks like. After a few minutes of this the creative juices will begin to flow and its amazing what can come forward. This is the creative process. It has no limits and what you come up with is unique to you and isn't right or wrong. This technique has helped me so much when I let go of the outcome and focus on the process I create beautiful art. Hope this makes sense!
Blessings
Wendi