Held to account

seeking support to get into creative flow

Creative block is a tough one. Sometimes intention to make art just isn’t enough to overcome whatever is getting in the way of whatever is blocking you. For me it has been the shifting sands of peri-menopause and changing circumstances at home.

I am a professional artist. For over 25 years I have made a living from my creative pursuits. I should know that despite the ebbs and flows, somehow the river always takes me and I get back to a place of output. Perhaps I should have more faith and not overthink it, turn up and let what is, be.

“Don't think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it's good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.” Andy Warhol

This week I was held to account. I planned to go out drawing with a friend. They kindly sussed out some good spots and took me there. I wrapped up warm against the winter weather and with some simple drawing supplies I started where I was with what I had. Sometimes the wind was so cold it cut through me but I was there, in a beautiful landscape with someone to hold my kit whilst the paper flapped in the breeze.

I am a loner and often create alone. But in making a plan and sticking to it I actually achieved got some sketches done. Your partner in creativity doesn’t have to be someone who will draw alongside you. Perhaps they will go for a walk or read a book. Perhaps they will go off and forage for hot chocolate!

Life is busy and we are called to fulfil on many things. Being present for your creative practice is an important part of finding flow. Having an accomplice who shows up to accompany you in your commitment to make marks on paper means that you are much more likely to go, to see, to draw and to feel satisfied, and a little further along the path to making art.

This week make a plan with a friend and implement some of those new year’s resolutions. Showing up for yourself and for someone else creates space to create.

“Don’t think about making art, just get it done”