As I continue to encounter various folk that come through my studio door in the pursuit of enriching their artistic journey, I can’t help but notice a reoccurring theme that seems to create a creative roadblock for some...
Negativity.
Whether it is projected inward which presents itself in disparaging comments like “this is probably going to look awful,” or “I will probably screw this up”, or projected outward as an expectation that something external will make an artistic endeavor go south, both are destructive.
And I try very hard to shoo and shoosh these things from my studio.
There is a reason I have words hanging from my shelves that remind people of a different state of mind. Laugh, Dream, Imagine, Live, may seem a little corny at first glance, but it astonishes me how many folk have a hard time being in that state when pursuing creativity.
And a negative attitude is like a virus. It can easily infect the other folk around you and send their muse into hiding.
Creating great art is a challenge on the best of days and it not only takes a honed skill but it also takes a little mystery on top of health and balance to execute. Why send the whole thing packing before you get started by being negative?
In my many years of being a “temper-mental artist” I have found a few things that help give the muse a leg-up. Some are practical and common sense, and some are a little more mystical.
Here are a few of my favorite Muse Rules:
The basics:
- Enough sleep
You may think that the muse enjoys being sleep deprived, but I have found that she prefers a solid night snooze to bring out her best. - Balanced eating
I know, you are thinking... “Jeez, Blair, really?” Yes, really. Energy levels are dependent on healthy eating and if you swing back and forth from sugar highs to crash, it is hard to get anything done. This includes not being over caffeinated;-) - Don’t drink and paint (or silversmith)
I am a wine lover, but creativity and alcohol don’t mix well. After two glasses of wine that work of art might start looking like a masterpiece, but come 9 a.m. you will discover that the muse left you after the first glass.
The not so basic:
- The magic hour
There is a time of day that is your “creative sweet spot”. It corresponds with the previous two items, but can be influenced by other outside sources, distractions and commitments. For this reason some folk find their best hour is the wee hours of the night. I am more of an 11am gal, which is when all of my creative planets tend to align. When you find your optimum hour, bring it to bear on your most challenging artistic problems. - Frame of mind (reframe)
All the previous items contribute to this, but there are a few more things you can do to help. It may sound trite, but think positively. But even moreso, be proactive about training yourself out of negative self-talk. There is enough baggage coming at an artist from external sources that you shouldn’t ally forces with it and become your own worst enemy. Observe the next time you default to a negative comment, and shift gears. Then do it again. It takes 30 days to change a habit. Start now and see how much your art improves. - Find an ally to your work.
We all need someone significant in our corner. For me it is my husband, but for some, a spouse is problematic. Find someone who won’t critique your work, but be an encourager. This will help you correct #5. - Tickle the muse
Find things that inspire you and use them to bring forth your best work. Music plays a huge roll for me when I am in the zone. External input helps (observe life, art, and design). I also find that if the muse needs a real boost and a little playful fun, a favorite food can jumpstart a creative burst(this assumes that you are still paying attention to rule #1). My favorite muse boosting foods... really messy buffalo wings with blue cheese, or fresh chocolate chip cookies. ;-)
So next time you lift the torch, check the clock, check your pulse, and check your attitude...
and have a cookie.