How have you been feeling creatively? We can sometimes feel creatively parched and need a spark to help us 'refill the wells'. Are you looking for ways to jumpstart your creativity and hit the ground running with new and innovative ideas? Here are some 8 tips to help you get started:
1. Set your sights. Whether it's a new creative idea, a writing challenge, or simply picking up a new skill, having a goal guides your creative compass. Try something new. There are usually quite a few online challenges for you to sink your teeth into, I will also be sharing a Free 12 week course called 'Kickstart Your Creativity Series' in a couple of weeks so sign up to my course platform to be notified. Sign up HERE
2. Make time for daydreaming. Schedule dedicated brain-sparking sessions. Brainstorm in the morning light, doodle during your lunch break, or let your mind wander after dark. In my latest Arts and Wellness Cafe I look at one of the Words for the Month - Stillness In our stillness we can find treasures.
3. Shake things up. Ditch the familiar. Try a new art form, write with a different voice, or explore a tool you've never touched. New experiences unlock hidden creative talents.
4. Find your inspiration tribe. Soak up the creative energy of others. Follow inspiring artists, attend workshops, or join a local group of fellow dreamers. Join us in the Creative Community on the course platform - Check it out HERE
5. Disconnect to reconnect. Sometimes, the best ideas bloom in the quiet. Take a digital detox, go for a nature walk, or lose yourself in a good book. Unplug and let your mind wander. Read that book that you have been promising yourself.
6. Tame the mental chatter. Mindfulness practices like meditation can help you focus and quiet your inner critic. A calm mind is a fertile ground for creativity. Take out your needles and thread and do some slow stitching - You can pick up some inspiration in Material Musings
7. Embrace the unknown. Step outside your comfort zone. Learn a new dance, travel to a new place, or take a class in something totally unfamiliar. New experiences jumpstart innovation.
8. Just start. Perfectionism is the creativity killer. Don't overthink it, just dive in. Pick up a pen, play with some paint supplies, doodle, create with recycled materials, do some slow stitching. The act of creation itself is the magic spark that ignites imagination.
Remember, creativity is a journey, not a destination. Keep experimenting, keep exploring, and keep feeding your curiosity. The well of wonder is always waiting to be refilled, and the greatest creations start with a single step. Now go forth and create!
Welcome to the Arts and Wellness Cafe, a place for those seeking inspiration to unleash their creativity and unlock their hidden talent. Today, let's embark on a journey that delves into the importance of spending time being creative and finding moments for reflection.
Word for the Month: Stillness
Our chosen word for the month is "Stillness, while I do have additional words that I will use alongside they help me to focus on areas of my life that might need attention. Consider the idea of carving out moments of quiet in your day. It might be a few minutes of meditation, a stroll in nature, or simply sitting with your thoughts. Stillness provides the space for creativity to blossom and ideas to take root.
Take a moment to reflect on how you can incorporate this word into your daily activities. Whether it's through art, writing, or any other creative outlet, allow yourself to reflect and be still.
Tip and Question of the Week: Balancing Act
Our tip of the week encourages you to strike a balance between productivity and relaxation. When engrossed in a project, set aside specific breaks to recharge your mind. Ask yourself: "Am I allowing myself enough time to rest and rejuvenate?" Finding this balance is key to sustained creativity and well-being.
Art Journal Process
Dive into the art journal process as a form of self-expression. Capture your thoughts, dreams, and emotions through a mix of colors, textures, and words. I have used magazine images for inspiration and created a collage. I also look at how you would adapt the activity for a carer, and ways to make the most of the activity. Let your creativity flow without judgment. Your art journal can become a place to explore and discover hidden parts of yourself.
Mixed Media idea for creating a collage - looking at colors and words that connect with you and creating a collage. It can be adapted for the one you are caring for.
Stitched Projects: Weaving Stories Through Craft
In the video we look at a variety of stitched projects that I have worked on. I feel that each of them tells a story in their own way with the stitches, and the colors of the fabric and additional embellishments. These activities provide a therapeutic escape. Take the time to create something beautiful with your hands, allowing your mind to unwind and unravel the complexities of daily life.
This piece was created in Material Musings, you can check out its progress HERE
As you embrace your word of the month, seek stillness in the midst of chaos, and find the delicate balance between work and rest. Enjoy the video and let me know what your word for the month is and how you are incorporating it into your new year so far.
Before You Go
Check out my Poetry book - Sometimes I write poetry, - Learn more HERE
Every month on my course platform I give away a digital download, for you to use in your creative projects. January - December 23 will be available until the 7th January 2024
We only have a few days left before we see in the New Year. When I think about what I want to spend time doing next year, creativity is at the top of the list! and so I will be joining Kiala Givehand in the 3rd Annual New Year’s Eve Artsy Marathon. We are going to bring in the New Year being creative with amazing people surrounded by our art supplies.
Here are the artists that will be taking part
We would love you to join us?
This year's Artsy Meetup Marathon is:
24 Hours of Creative Lessons from a variety of guest teachers (names below). You don't need to be there all 24 hours, the recordings will be available a few days after the event.
The Scedule will be live on the website
an opportunity to learn, play, and explore with other creative souls.
a list of techniques, tips, and tutorials for your visual journaling and documented days.
There will be several GIVEAWAYS throughout the night
a powerfully creative way to bring in 2024 with intention.
Joyce Van Der Lely - artist & empowerment guide -- @joycevanderlely
We are going to have so much fun at the Artsy Meetup Marathon, and you will have so many hints and creative tips to see you into the New Year.JOIN THE PARTY!
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Before You Go
Check out Filling the Creative Well Mixed Media Course - LEARN MORE
Realityarts - Creativity Book Shop - Some really great titles for you to dive in
Creative Resources
Affiliate Links
Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you purchase a product after clicking an affiliate link, I receive a small percentage of the sale for referring you. I only have links to products that I would buy myself. Purchasing through affiliate links is an easy, painless way to help out your favorite artists/bloggers at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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