July 2017 – AniShiv’s Art Room

Where does inspiration for painting come from? 12 Ideas to brainstorm!

Inspiration is the ethereal force that ignites the creative flame within artists, propelling them to embark on transformative artistic journeys.

For painters, understanding the origins of inspiration and learning how to harness its power is essential in the quest to create meaningful and evocative artworks.

Whether you are an aspiring artist seeking to unlock your creative potential or an established painter looking to invigorate your artistic process, this guide will provide valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your artistic journey.

1. Nature’s Infinite Canvas

Nature has long been a profound source of inspiration for painters throughout history.

The grandeur of mountains, the tranquility of forests, the dance of sunlight on water—all these natural wonders have captivated artists’ hearts and sparked their creative visions.

By immersing themselves in nature’s boundless beauty, painters tap into a rich reservoir of inspiration, drawing upon the intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and captivating textures that abound.

2. The Tapestry of Human Experience

The human experience is a tapestry of emotions, stories, and connections, providing a deep wellspring of inspiration for painting.

From joy to sorrow, love to longing, artists find inspiration in the kaleidoscope of human emotions. They capture the essence of these emotions on their canvases, creating visual narratives that resonate with viewers on a profound level.

By delving into their own experiences and empathizing with the experiences of others, painters infuse their art with authenticity and universal significance.

3. The Power of Imagination

The realm of imagination is a fertile ground where painting inspiration blossoms.

Artists harness the power of their minds to conjure ethereal worlds, whimsical characters, and fantastical scenes.

From dreams and fantasies to surreal landscapes, the limitless boundaries of imagination unlock a realm of infinite possibilities.

By tapping into their imaginative depths, painters translate abstract ideas into tangible forms, breathing life into their creations.

4. Visual Stimuli and Observation

The world is a visual feast, brimming with stimuli that spark painting inspiration.

Artists train their eyes to observe the world with heightened awareness, capturing the interplay of light and shadow, the subtle nuances of color, and the intricate details that often go unnoticed.

By cultivating a keen sense of observation, painters unlock new perspectives and uncover hidden beauty in the simplest of subjects.

Through careful study and attentive observation, they infuse their artworks with a sense of realism and depth.

5. Artistic Dialogue and Exploration

Artistic exploration and engagement with other artists are essential catalysts for painting inspiration.

By studying the works of masters and contemporary artists, painters broaden their artistic horizons, discover new techniques, and challenge their own creative boundaries.

Visiting galleries, museums, and exhibitions exposes artists to a diverse range of styles, subjects, and interpretations, fostering a dynamic dialogue that nourishes their own artistic growth.

6. Embracing Personal Expression

Painting inspiration often emerges from the depths of an artist’s own being.

By embracing personal expression, artists tap into their unique perspectives, thoughts, and emotions.

They draw inspiration from their own narratives, memories, and introspection, allowing their authentic selves to shine through their art.

By infusing their work with personal meaning, painters create a profound connection between their artwork and the viewers, inviting them into their creative journey.

7. Seeking Serendipity and Chance

In the world of painting, inspiration can often emerge unexpectedly through serendipitous encounters and chance discoveries.

The unplanned brushstrokes, the accidental spills, and the spontaneous creative choices can lead to unforeseen artistic breakthroughs.

By embracing the unpredictability of the artistic process and remaining open to unexpected possibilities, painters create space for inspiration to flourish in its most delightful and surprising forms.

8. Trusting the Intuition

Intuition plays a crucial role in the artistic process.

Listening to our instincts and trusting our artistic intuition allows us to create authentically.

Intuition guides our decision-making, helping us choose colors, compositions, and brushstrokes that resonate with our artistic vision.

It encourages us to follow our creative impulses, even when they deviate from conventional norms. Trusting our intuition empowers us to create with confidence and authenticity.

9. Keeping a Visual Journal

A visual journal, such as a sketchbook or diary, serves as a valuable tool for capturing and preserving inspiration.

By recording fleeting ideas, sketches, and observations, we create a visual archive of inspiration that we can revisit and draw upon later.

This practice helps us stay connected to our creative flow and provides a wellspring of ideas for future paintings.

It also serves as a personal reflection of our artistic journey, showcasing the evolution of our thoughts and techniques over time.

10. Cultural Heritage and History

Culture and history provide a vast tapestry of inspiration for painters.

Exploring one’s own cultural heritage or delving into the stories of the past can ignite artistic visions.

Artists can draw inspiration from traditional art forms, historical events, folklore, or the customs and rituals of different societies.

By honoring and celebrating cultural diversity, painters infuse their artworks with deeper layers of meaning, connecting past and present in a visual narrative that resonates with viewers.

11. Dreams and the Subconscious

The realm of dreams and the subconscious mind is a fertile ground for painting inspiration.

Dreams can be a wellspring of imaginative imagery, abstract symbolism, and surreal landscapes.

Artists often find inspiration in the enigmatic and fantastical elements that arise in their dreams.

By exploring the subconscious through journaling, meditation, or dream analysis, painters can access a realm of inspiration that defies logical boundaries and gives rise to unique and thought-provoking artworks.

12. Collaboration and Dialogue

Collaboration and dialogue with other artists, whether through formal partnerships or informal exchanges, can spark new inspiration.

Engaging in artistic conversations, workshops, or joint projects allows artists to share ideas, techniques, and perspectives.

Collaboration can lead to a merging of artistic styles and the exploration of new creative territories.

Through the collective energy of shared creativity, painters can expand their artistic horizons and discover fresh sources of inspiration.

How to Express Your Feelings on Canvas? 12 tips for Painting Emotions

Art has the incredible power to provide a creative outlet for expressing emotions that are often difficult to put into words.

Painting allows you to visually communicate your feelings, experiences, and inner world in a unique and personal way.

In this blog post, we will explore how you can paint your feelings on canvas, allowing your emotions to come to life through colors, brushstrokes, and composition.

1. Tap into Your Emotions

Before you start painting, take some time to connect with your emotions. Reflect on what you are feeling and the specific emotions you want to express.

Allow yourself to fully experience and understand those emotions. This self-reflection will serve as the foundation for your artistic expression.

2. Create a Meaningful Concept

Develop a concept or idea that aligns with your emotions.

Consider the subject matter, or narrative that will effectively convey your feelings.

This concept will guide your creative process and help you stay focused on expressing your emotions authentically.

3. Choose Colors Thoughtfully

Colors play a vital role in expressing emotions.

Select a color palette that resonates with the feelings you want to convey. Warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows can evoke energy and passion, while cool colors like blues and greens can evoke calmness or introspection.

Experiment with different shades and combinations to find the palette that best captures your emotions.

4. Experiment with Techniques and Brushstrokes

Explore different painting techniques and brushstrokes to bring your emotions to life on the canvas.

Consider whether you want bold, expressive strokes or more delicate and controlled marks.

Experiment with textures, layering, and blending techniques to create visual depth and convey the complexity of your emotions.

5. Embrace Abstraction

Don’t be afraid to embrace abstraction as a means of expressing emotions.

Abstract art allows you to convey feelings through shapes, colors, and textures without being tied to a specific representation.

Abstract forms can evoke strong emotional responses and create a deeper connection between the artwork and the viewer.

6. Use Composition to Enhance Emotional Impact

Composition plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact of your artwork.

Consider the placement of elements, the use of negative space, and the overall balance. Experiment with different arrangements to create a composition that amplifies the desired emotions.

Remember that compositional choices can influence how viewers engage with and interpret your artwork.

7. Trust Your Intuition

While it’s essential to have a plan, don’t be afraid to let your intuition guide you. Allow yourself to be spontaneous and embrace creative surprises.

Trust your artistic instincts and let the painting process flow naturally. Sometimes, the most powerful expressions of emotions emerge when you let go of preconceived ideas and allow the canvas to be a space of raw, authentic expression.

8. Reflect and Connect

Once your artwork is complete, take a step back and reflect on the emotional journey you’ve captured on the canvas.

Spend time connecting with your creation and observe how it resonates with your own emotions.

Share your artwork with others, as it can serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and connections.

9. Create a Series

Consider creating a series of paintings to delve deeper into the nuances of your emotions.

Each artwork within the series can explore a different facet of your feelings or depict the evolution of emotions over time.

A series allows you to further immerse yourself in the creative process and offers viewers a comprehensive experience of your emotional journey.

10. Allow for Emotional Evolution

Recognize that emotions are not static; they evolve and transform over time. As you paint your feelings, embrace the evolving nature of your emotional landscape.

Allow your artwork to reflect the ebb and flow of emotions, capturing the journey rather than fixating on a singular moment.

This dynamic approach can add layers of depth and authenticity to your artistic expression.

11. Engage in Reflective Dialogue

Engage in a dialogue with your artwork as you progress.

Take breaks to step back and reflect on the emotions you’ve imbued into the canvas. Ask yourself how effectively the painting captures your feelings and make adjustments as needed.

This reflective dialogue allows you to refine your artistic expression and ensure that your emotions are being communicated effectively.

12. Trust the Process

The process of painting your feelings is as important as the final artwork itself.

Embrace the act of creation as a therapeutic and transformative experience. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment, surrendering to the emotions that guide your brush.

Trust in the healing and self-discovery that unfolds as you immerse yourself in the process of painting your feelings.

Why Creativity Can Feel Hard (and How to Move Past It)

Ever find yourself staring at your art supplies, wanting to create but feeling completely stuck? Maybe it’s the fear of imperfection, the overwhelm of a blank canvas, or just not knowing where to start.

Trust me, you’re not alone.

Starting is often the hardest part of the creative process—but it doesn’t have to be.

Here’s a simple mindset shift and a few practical tips to help you overcome that stuck feeling and get back to creating with joy.

1. Why Starting Feels So Hard

The moment before you begin can feel heavy.

Thoughts like, “What if it doesn’t turn out?” or “I don’t even know what I want to make,” can paralyze us.

Often, this fear comes from a desire for perfection or the pressure to create something “worthwhile.”

But here’s the truth: your first mark doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to exist.

2. Let Go of the Fear of Imperfection

Art is not about perfection; it’s about expression.

Whether you’re working on a mixed media piece, a landscape, or an abstract, the process is where the magic happens.

Every stroke, layer, and texture tells a story, even if it feels messy or unfinished.

Action Tip:
Start with the mindset, “I’m just playing today.”

Remove the pressure to create a masterpiece and allow yourself to experiment freely.

3. Pull Out Your Supplies and Begin

Sometimes, the hardest part is simply gathering your tools.

Once the supplies are in front of you, creativity often begins to flow naturally.

Try This:

Set a timer for 10 minutes and promise yourself you’ll just play.
Use materials you don’t mind “messing up,” like scrap paper or old supplies.
Experiment with something new, like mixing collage papers or layering unexpected textures.

4. Embrace the Messy Middle

The creative process isn’t linear.

It’s full of trial and error, happy accidents, and moments of doubt.

But every mark you make is a step forward, teaching you something new about your art and yourself.

Remember: The mess is where growth happens. The more you embrace it, the more you’ll find joy in the journey.

5. Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome

Art isn’t just about the final piece; it’s about how it makes you feel while creating it.

Did you have fun? Did you discover something new?

Those moments are what matter most.

Final Tip:
Keep a small notebook nearby to jot down thoughts or insights during your creative sessions. Over time, you’ll notice how much you’re growing and evolving as an artist.

Conclusion: Your Next Step

If you’re feeling stuck, take this as a gentle reminder: just start.

Pull out your supplies, let go of perfection, and allow yourself to play. Every mark you make is a step closer to discovering your unique creative voice.

And if you’re looking for inspiration, I’d love for you to check out my Paper Buttons class, where I combine mixed media techniques to create playful, layered art. You can find it here.

What’s the first thing you’ll create today? Let me know—I’d love to hear about your process.

Trusting the First Thought

Have you ever found yourself hesitating before making a mark on the page—or in life?
This blog explores how practicing intuitive decisions in your art journal can ripple into your everyday life, helping you build trust in your instincts, loosen the grip of perfectionism, and act with more confidence and ease.

2. The Trap of Overthinking

Many of us have been conditioned to:

Look for the “right” decision
Second-guess our first instinct
Worry about the outcome before we begin
Overanalyze instead of trusting ourselves

This shows up in daily life and in our creative process:

“Should I use this color?”
“Is this composition good enough?”
“What if I ruin it?”

In the attempt to do things “right,” we often silence the quiet, intuitive voice within us.

3. Your Art Journal: A Safe Space to Practice Intuition

An art journal is the perfect space to:

Experiment freely without consequence
Follow first impulses (even if they seem odd or random)
Observe how often you talk yourself out of something
Play instead of plan

In this space, you can ask:

“What happens if I just grab the pencil?”
“What if I don’t correct myself?”
“What if I trust this choice?”

Each page becomes a practice ground for intuitive living.

4. Why You Don’t Need to “Make the Right Decision”

Let’s rethink what it means to make the “right” choice.
When creating intuitively:

There’s no “wrong” color, mark, or material.
Any decision can work if you stay present and open.
You learn to adapt and respond instead of controlling every step.

The page teaches you:

To make a move and adjust rather than freeze in fear.
To see mistakes as part of the process.
That your first instinct is often enough—and often, better.

5. Strengthening the Intuition Muscle

When you consistently act on first thoughts in your journal, you:

Rebuild trust in your inner voice
Notice how often you almost stop yourself—and choose not to
Learn to let go of outcome and stay in the moment

This practice naturally begins to spill over into everyday life:

You speak up instead of hesitating.
You act on inspiration before doubt creeps in.
You become more spontaneous, more alive.

6. From Page to Life: Everyday Changes You Might Notice

Here’s how intuitive art begins to shape your daily decisions:

You trust your gut: Whether it’s choosing a project, a meal, or a conversation, you listen more closely to your body’s wisdom.
You act faster: Instead of hesitating, you make the move.
You care less about “perfect”: You value presence over performance.
You respond more honestly: In relationships, you speak with more ease and authenticity.

7. How to Practice First-Thought Trusting in Your Journal

Want to start strengthening your intuitive voice today? Try this:

Ask yourself: “What’s the first tool or material I feel like picking up?”
Grab it without questioning it.
Make one mark—just one—and observe what happens inside you.
Repeat: Let the next step be guided by the last. No overthinking.
Notice: Do you hesitate? Do you judge yourself? Just stay curious.

Over time, you’ll build more confidence in this inner rhythm.

8. Final Reflection: This Is the Real Work

This process is simple, but it’s not always easy.
It asks you to unlearn years of conditioning and trust that your deeper self already knows.

But the more you practice trusting your first thought on the page, the more you’ll trust it in the world.

Because intuitive art isn’t just art.
It’s life training—quiet, sacred, playful training for showing up as your full self.

10 Lies We Tell Ourselves About Creativity

Creativity is a powerful force that resides within every individual. It is a wellspring of innovation, self-expression, and personal growth.

However, despite its universal presence, many of us fall victim to the lies we tell ourselves about creativity. These deceptive beliefs hold us back from fully embracing our creative potential.

In this blog post, we will shed light on some of the common misconceptions and debunk the lies we often tell ourselves about creativity.

Lie 1: “I’m not a creative person.”

One of the most damaging lies we can believe is that creativity is exclusive to a select few individuals who possess innate artistic talents.

The truth is that creativity exists in various forms and is not limited to traditional artistic pursuits. It manifests in problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovative ideas across all aspects of life.

Embrace the fact that creativity is a human trait, and each of us has the capacity to tap into it.

Lie 2: “Creativity Is a Luxurious Pursuit; I Simply Don’t Have the Time.”

In our fast-paced, productivity-driven society, we often prioritize practicality over creative pursuits. We convince ourselves that creativity is a luxury we can’t afford in our busy lives.

However, this belief stifles our imagination and robs us of the joy that comes from self-expression.

Creativity is not a time-consuming endeavor; it can be integrated into our daily routines in small yet meaningful ways. By setting aside even a few minutes each day to engage in a creative practice, we can unlock our creative potential and enrich our lives.

Lie 3: “Only Naturally Talented Individuals Can Be Creative.”

Another common misconception is that creativity is bestowed upon a chosen few with inherent artistic abilities.

This belief undermines the truth that creativity is a skill that can be developed and nurtured through practice and perseverance.

While some individuals may possess a natural inclination towards certain creative pursuits, anyone can cultivate their creativity through learning, experimentation, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. It’s not about talent; it’s about dedication and a willingness to explore.

Lie 4: “Creativity Is Superficial; It Lacks Practical Value.”

There is a prevailing notion that creativity is superfluous, lacking practicality or real-world value. This belief couldn’t be further from the truth.

Creativity plays a vital role in problem-solving, innovation, and personal growth. It allows us to approach challenges from different perspectives, find unique solutions, and bring fresh ideas to the table.

Embracing our creativity opens doors to new opportunities and fosters a sense of fulfillment and self-discovery.

Lie 5: “Creativity requires external validation.”

Many of us fall into the trap of seeking external validation for our creative endeavors. We believe that our creations are only valuable if others appreciate and applaud them.

This mindset can stifle our creative freedom and dampen our authentic expression.

True creativity comes from within, driven by personal passion and self-belief. By letting go of the need for external validation, we free ourselves to create art that is true to our unique perspectives and experiences.

Lie 6: “Creativity is for children; it diminishes with age.”

Somewhere along the way, many of us have come to believe that creativity is something reserved for childhood and fades away as we grow older.

However, creativity knows no age limits. In fact, with life experiences and wisdom, our creativity can deepen and take on new dimensions.

Embrace the truth that creativity can flourish at any stage of life, and each chapter of your journey brings unique insights to your creative expression.

Lie 7: “I need to be inspired to be creative.”

Waiting for inspiration to strike before engaging in creative activities can be a trap. While inspiration is undoubtedly a wonderful catalyst, relying solely on it can lead to stagnation.

The truth is that creativity is often born out of action. By showing up and actively engaging in creative pursuits, even when you don’t feel inspired, you open the door for inspiration to find you in unexpected moments.

Lie 8: “I have to follow the rules.”

While learning the fundamentals of any art form is essential, rigidly adhering to rules can stifle your creativity. Fear of breaking conventions or stepping outside the lines can hamper your creative growth.

Allow yourself the freedom to explore and experiment. Break rules purposefully to discover new techniques and unleash your creativity’s full potential.

Lie 9: “My creativity should look like someone else’s.”

Comparison is the thief of joy, and in the realm of creativity, it can be particularly damaging. Believing that your creativity should mirror someone else’s style or achievements diminishes your unique voice.

Embrace the truth that your creativity is an extension of your personality and experiences. Celebrate your individuality and let your authentic self shine through in your creative expressions.

Lie 10: “I must always be original.”

The pressure to be completely original can be overwhelming and paralyzing. The truth is that creativity often involves building upon existing ideas and influences.

Great artists throughout history have drawn inspiration from their predecessors and peers. Embrace the idea that creativity is a collective process and be open to incorporating diverse influences into your work.

Is it Normal to Think my Art Is Bad?

Artistic self-doubt, a common companion on the creative journey. Many artists, whether seasoned professionals or aspiring beginners, often find themselves questioning the quality of their own work. But is it normal to think my art is bad?

In this article, we will explore the common experiences of artists who grapple with self-doubt, the factors that contribute to these feelings, and how to navigate them in a healthy and constructive way.

Understanding Artistic Self-Doubt

Artistic self-doubt is a complex emotional experience that artists of all backgrounds can encounter. It is a feeling of uncertainty or dissatisfaction with one’s artistic abilities or creations.

Even the most accomplished artists have moments where they question their work.

The creative process inherently involves vulnerability and self-expression, making it susceptible to self-doubt.

Factors Contributing to Feeling Your Art Is Bad

1. High Standards

Artists often have a clear vision of what they want their art to look like. When their skills or the final result fall short of that vision, doubts may arise.

Having high standards is not necessarily a negative trait; it can motivate artists to continually improve.

2. Comparison with Others

The temptation to compare oneself to other artists is common.

Artists may find themselves captivated by the skill, technique, or style of others they admire.

This comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy or the perception that their art is inferior.

3. Subjectivity of Art

Art is subjective, and individual tastes and preferences vary. What one person might consider “bad,” another might find intriguing, thought-provoking, or emotionally stirring.

Recognizing the subjectivity of art can help artists gain perspective and understand that not everyone will resonate with their work.

4. Growth and Learning

As artists progress in their artistic journey, they become more aware of areas where they want to improve.

This heightened self-awareness can lead to critical self-evaluation and the belief that their art is not as good as they desire.

Embracing this process is crucial for growth and development.

Navigating Artistic Self-Doubt

Recognize it as a Normal Experience: Understanding that artistic self-doubt is a common occurrence can provide solace.

It reassures artists that they are not alone in their struggles and that it is a natural part of the creative process.

1. Embrace the Growth Mindset

Adopting a growth mindset is essential in overcoming self-doubt.

View challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning rather than indicators of failure.

Embrace the journey of improvement and focus on progress rather than perfection.

2. Seek Constructive Feedback

Receiving feedback from trusted peers, mentors, or art communities can provide valuable insights and help identify areas for improvement.

Constructive criticism can be a catalyst for growth and a chance to view your work from different perspectives.

3. Practice Self-Compassion

Nurture yourself with kindness and cultivate a deep sense of self-compassion.

Acknowledge that art is a journey, and growth takes time.

Celebrate your achievements and milestones along the way, no matter how small they may seem.

4. Establish a Supportive Network

Surround yourself with a supportive network of fellow artists or creative individuals who understand the challenges of the artistic process.

Share experiences, exchange feedback, and provide encouragement to each other.