If you’re reading this article, you may be going through one of the hardest things artists face: art block.
During the colder months, I know I feel very inspired to create, but sometimes, I don’t know what to make. If this is how you’re feeling, you’re not alone! The following are some strategies that work for me.
1: Idea Log
One of my best ideas for preventing art block is making an idea log. At any time if you get an idea, write it down in your Notes app or in a notebook.
This sounds simple, but it makes a huge difference. As a filmmaker, some of my best projects came from ideas I jotted down in the middle of everyday life.
My favorite project that I brainstormed in this way was Stages. While I did not direct or write this film, I did come up with the five stages of grief concept and how it influences the story.
Originally, I wrote down the concept a month prior. When my group came together to brainstorm for this project, I opened my notes app immediately for ideas.
My director came up with the idea that the plot would be about the aftermath of a big break-up, so I suggested it should focus on the five stages of grief, and the film was born!
In my opinion, this strategy is the most effective and keeps all your great ideas and concepts in one place.
2: Brainstorm Like it’s a Journal Entry
If you don’t have any ideas saved that speak to you, that’s okay!
My next piece of advice is to force yourself into a brainstorm space. One of the best ways to do this is to get a notebook, set a timer for a few minutes, and write down anything that comes to mind: ideas, emotions, thoughts, opinions, anything!
Giving yourself the ability to focus on brainstorming can really push past art block to come up with new ideas.
After being taught this method in one of my classes in freshman year, I decided to test it out last semester when I had a project deadline approaching and needed a short film idea fast.
Forcing myself into a brainstorm space helped me develop the ideas that were used in my film The Right Choice. This method can be very effective for coming up with ideas!as!
3: Take a walk with music
Setting time aside to take a walk with your thoughts or music that inspires you is a great way to get your brainstorming started.
This can give you a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, which can be a major distraction to creative flow. I’ve gotten many great ideas while walking outside with friends, to or from class, or on hikes!
Last fall semester, I was assigned a film project with very specific requirements, making it very difficult to come up with story ideas and visuals.
When my other methods weren’t effective, I decided to take a walk and ponder my ideas. This is how I came up with the storyline and aesthetic for my film Indecision. I highly recommend this method!
Now that you have some of my strategies, I hope you’re able to get out of art block next time it stumps you!