Have fun with your art. Try something new and enjoy the process of making the piece.
Author Laura Davis dabbles in her art journal with this multi-media piece, pictured above. She uses acrylic paint, washi tape, and Posca paint pens.
Making art to experience the process, without concern for the finished product, is delightful. It takes me back to playing in my backyard as a kid, making designs with sticks and rocks, or drawing in the wet sand at the beach. I was not anxious about what the “finished product” would look like, because it didn’t matter.
If you find yourself in a creative rut, it might be time to try a new art technique, medium, tool, or even just change your location. Trying something new is about curiosity, pushing limits, and sparking creativity.
Use whatever materials you have around you. I will admit, this is a personal challenge. Walking the art supply aisles at the craft store is my happy place. Just don’t let budget sideline your creativity. You don’t need to spend money to benefit from playing with color, texture, or shapes. Dive into your kids’ art bin or find some crayons or colored pencils and get coloring. A pen and the back of an envelope can be the beginning of a relaxing doodle.
I recently tried multi-media art journaling and making “junk” journals. Both were enjoyable because I was learning and trying. There were no rules. Both types of creating were about finding paper around the house, magazines, gift wrapping paper, old tissue paper sewing patterns, anything was fair game. Just the act of making the marks on the paper and gluing and painting layers upon layers was freeing and peaceful.
Trying a new kind of art is like adding a fresh spice to an old recipe. Here are 10 reasons to give it a shot:
- Expand Your Horizons: New art forms open doors to uncharted territories. They introduce you to different techniques, materials, and styles, making your creative world bigger.
- Inspiration Galore: Trying something new can spark inspiration. It might influence your existing art forms or lead to unexpected ideas.
- Break Routine: We all need a change now and then. Trying a new art form breaks the monotony and renews your passion for creating.
- Challenge Yourself: New art can be a puzzle waiting to be solved. It’s a chance to push your boundaries and learn new skills.
- Fresh Perspective: Different art forms offer unique ways to see the world. They can enhance your observation skills and deepen your connection to your surroundings.
- Connect with Others: Exploring a new art form can bring you closer to people who share your interest. You might find a new community to connect with.
- Mindfulness: Immersing yourself in a new art form can be a mindful practice. It helps you focus on the present moment and relieves stress.
- Surprise Yourself: You might discover hidden talents or interests you never knew you had. It’s like a treasure hunt within yourself.
- Flexibility: Being versatile in various art forms can come in handy. You can adapt your creativity to different situations and needs.
- Pure Joy: Ultimately, trying new art is about having fun. It’s an adventure, a journey of exploration, and a delightful way to spend your time.
So, whether it’s trying your hand at sculpting, experimenting with watercolors, or diving into digital art, don’t hesitate to give it a whirl. You never know what wonders you might experience!
About the Author
Laura Davis is a board member with AIR4arts. As a residential architect and interior designer she loves to design homes for her clients that support the kind of life they want to live. Laura lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and two boys. She spends her creative time paper crafting, book making, writing, painting, and quilting. When she is not in her studio, she is driving her two sons to the soccer field.
