How to get back into art after a long break
In 2023 I got back into art after a massive break. I was itching to jump straight into adventurous compositions and it took a while to click that keeping things simple is best after a long break.
Here are my top tips for easing yourself back into creating art.
Sketch everyday
Aim to do a 5-minute sketch everyday to get you back into the swing of observation. Charcoal or pen are perfect for doing a quick loose drawing.
After a while, you’ll start to feel confident again.
The sketches do not have to be perfect. They are simply sketches to get you back into drawing again.
If you commute to work, take your sketchpad on the train with you and draw what’s around you. That might just be a quick sketch of a field out the window.
Stick to simple compositions
It will feel overwhelming if you set up a still life scene with several objects so don’t do this straight away. Stick to one object per drawing for now.
You’re more likely to enjoy painting one object than several.
This leads me onto my next point…
Raid your cupboards
This is a tip I have seen suggested a lot and it is a good one that I wished I’d done sooner. Do go all Andy Warhol and draw tins. Not only are they simple to draw but also something you likely have in your cupboard. At this stage, there is no need to spend money on fancy props.
Yes, vases are nice to paint but if they have elaborate patterns on them, they will turn out complicated to paint. This exercise isn’t about painting to sell, it's about painting to get you confident again, which leads me onto my next point…
Paint to practice not to sell
We’d all love to start selling straight away but don’t make this your prime goal. Focus on getting comfortable with your mediums and drawing again. Putting pressure on yourself to create something to sell is not what you need right now. This might prevent you from picking up a paintbrush because you’re so worried about mucking up a piece.
If you end up painting something you can sell then that’s an added bonus.
Do fun drawings to regain your passion for art
Treat art like your therapy and throw some paint at a canvas. Or create some lines with pastels in your sketchbook. Not only therapeutic, but loosens you up and reminds your brain how fun art is. The more fun you have at the beginning of your new art journey, the more you’re likely to continue it for the long-haul.
Find local art clubs
Try out local art clubs – great for connecting with artists and getting you back into being creative. This doesn’t have to be a fine art class and could be a collage-making workshop. Anything to get your creativity flowing again.
Find a drawing challenge
If you’re struggling with motivation, joining a drawing challenge is what you need. Sharing your work online with the hashtag introduces you to a whole new community. It will also likely bring you some lovely comments which will give you the boost you need.
Don't compare your artwork
An absolute must! It is tempting to browse Instagram and beat yourself up but don’t. It might look like every artist has it all figured out but everyone has doubts and blockers from time to time. We can’t all produce perfect pieces all the time and what Instagram doesn’t show you is the paintings that went wrong.
Summary
Rome wasn’t built in a day. Ease yourself back into your art gently and know that creativity is a process and doesn’t happen overnight.