Finding August’s Inspiration
How do you make art when you’re not feeling it? What can be done when the usual helpful things aren’t helping?
This month, a previous coworker asked me if I wanted to be interviewed by some of my former students for a podcast they’re developing for class. “They miss you, and they want to ask questions about your art.” I was flattered, and happily accepted the invitation. We met over zoom and it was easily one of the top three inspiring moments of the month.
The podcast hosts were excellent and welcoming. I borrowed some of their interview questions for the headline of this month’s newsletter. Not only are these important questions to consider in order to understand the experience of individuals with varying physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities; these are important questions for anyone who hopes to create something from nothing.
Art is a creative form of expression that’s difficult to separate from feelings. One might be able to go outside, breathe fresh air, and come back to the project with a new set of eyes, but what happens when there’s a persistent block that’s permeated with difficult emotions, apathy, or distractions? I especially felt that this month as I struggled to find inspiration and motivation in the wake of grief (see my last blog entry for more).
During the podcast, we talked about how to get over, or to get through, a creative block. Reaching out to a friend was the most popular and resonating answer for many of the people in our group. Sharing your experiences with others widens your perspective and makes you feel less alone in your struggles. Conversing with others, asking for feedback, and requesting advice are great ways to combat tunnel vision. It’s also a sign of strength,, even though showing vulnerability can make one feel small at times.
I also think it makes your peers and mentors feel good that you would trust them for their input.
Finding community and connection seemed to be the threads connecting our conversation about overcoming creative obstacles.
I would also add, “don’t let falling short define who you are.” I didn’t complete a particular goal of mine this month. Instead of being mean to myself, I tried to hold space and understanding for why it didn’t happen so I could do better next time. Here are some questions I asked myself:
Did I set a reasonable goal? Were there external variables that affected my ability to accomplish this goal? Was it a personal goal, or was it a professional obligation? Did I ask for help when I needed it?
Don’t belittle yourself for accomplishing small victories within the umbrella of your larger goal.
Above: “Tempos Urgentes - Urgent Times” by Maria Sorzano and its artist statement; “The Matron” by Elizabeth Berger and its artist statement. Boulder Library Canyon Gallery.
The theme this month for maintaining inspiration and motivation? It’s looking like connection. Connection with nature, connection with other people, and connection with yourself. Write down the nice things people say about you and the things you do. Save them for a rainy day. Too often we brush off compliments and hang on to negativity, which is often self-imposed.
Community events can be another way to find inspiration, community, and involvement in your local art scene. You might have an Artwalk nearby, or an events calendar for your county. These events are usually free (unless you buy something you really like), and fun! You can get facetime with other artists and grow your network of inspiring people. Your library might also have a gallery wall (or a gallery, see the pics above!)
Above: Friend and Artist, Julie Tu; A current commission (in progress!); My husband and the Boulder Flatirons; Three creative women at the Longmont Chalk Art Festival.
This month, my personal goal is to write each morning for twenty minutes. I was reminded of this practice by someone I met in LA who works at Paramount. Morning Pages are meant to be a stream-of-consciousness, anti-perfectionist way to strengthen your writing and communication skills. After I set an intention to begin this practice, I read this poem from Rumi:
“Today, like every other day, we wake up empty
and frightened. Don't open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down a musical instrument (or dulcimer, in some translations).
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.”
-Rumi
I hope you’ll join me! I’d love to get to a place where I begin the day by creating something instead of consuming Twitter and social media. And if you have any questions, feel free to email me at hello@meganschreiberdesigns.com. Notice any typos? Email me! And tell your friends if you’re enjoying the blog :)
As always, thank you for reading and be kind to yourself,
-Megan
