How to get back into painting after a break: Tips for artists
Many times, after being away from the studio for a while—whatever the reason —I walk in and don’t quite know where to start. Fear quickly pops in… Do I even remember how to paint? Can I still create?? The questions pile up, sometimes growing even larger if I don’t take some kind of immediate action once I notice the pattern. How do we get back into painting after a break?
It seems to me the longer the absence from the studio, the bigger and scarier the questions become. If I’m not careful, those questions and self-doubt have the potential to completely paralyze me.
What to do to Overcome Creative Block
Action is always the best remedy for me when facing a creative block, even a mini block or feeling uninspired. One thing I do is clean my space, especially the painting area. A good tidy-up and wipe-down of the palette area, fresh paper towels, putting the tubes of paint back where they belong—whatever I need to do to feel organized and ready to go.
Next, I play some music, and without overthinking, I start painting. I might begin by touching up some pieces that need a little TLC or by starting a small new one. I try to pick something where the stakes aren’t too high, so it’s okay if it gets “ruined.” Before I know it, the fears are forgotten—or at least put aside. I’m back in the groove, and it feels great! I just have to be careful not to let cleaning become a way to procrastinate— if you know what I mean!
Taking Action to Build Creative Confidence
Action is always the best antidote to self-doubt. Small, intrusive thoughts don’t have room to expand while I’m busy doing. Sometimes I even paint a good one!
If you’re looking for more ideas to ease back into a creative habit, here are some steps that help me:
Commit to Mini Sessions: Start with a simple 10–15 minutes a day focused on small tasks or single shapes. This creates a low-pressure way to warm up your creativity without committing to a full piece. Tell yourself that’s all you will do: 10-15 min so you don’t feel the pressure of having to have a longer session and/or a finished painting!
Experiment Without Expectations: Let yourself play with materials or styles outside of your usual comfort zone. Try using a limited palette, unusual color combinations, or even a different medium. This experimentation can make the process feel fresh and often leads to unexpected ideas.
Do a Series of Quick Studies: Dedicate time to creating a few small, fast studies on a theme, like exploring light at different times of day or a particular subject. A series of quick pieces can keep you focused on the process and let you practice without pressure.
Sketch from Life Daily: Make quick sketches of objects around you, people, or scenes you come across. This can bring you back to seeing the world with a painter's eye, focusing on form, shadow, and perspective.
Prep Materials: Sometimes I just start to gesso canvases or prepare panels. The act of moving physically, using brushes and getting things ready seems to trick my brain into continued action.
What about you? What do you do to get back into painting after a break? Share your tips in the comments for overcoming creative blocks and getting back into a creative habit!