How I Find Inspiration for My Next Painting

Let’s be honest—sometimes the hardest part of painting isn’t the actual painting process itself; it’s figuring out where to start. This initial hurdle can often feel like an insurmountable wall, especially when I find yourself staring at a blank canvas.The pressure to produce something meaningful or visually stunning can stifle inspiration and leave me feeling paralyzed. However, it’s important to recognize that finding inspiration doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Rather, it can be approached as a playful exploration of ideas and techniques.

Sketchbook Play

One way I overcome this challenge is to spend some time playing in my sketchbook. I often dedicate around 20 minutes to this practice, allowing myself the freedom to play without the constraints of a final product in mind. During this time, I make spontaneous marks on the page, experimenting with different tools that I have. This could include pencils, charcoal, ink pens, or sticks from the garden, lids off containers, tools anything that can make a different mark than a brush. The goal here is not perfection but rather the joy of exploration.

As I work, I allow myself to be influenced by the colours I have seen in my surroundings or through various sources of inspiration, such as nature, art books, or even the vibrant hues in everyday life. I might mix unexpected colors together, creating unique palettes that evoke different emotions or themes. This process of experimentation can lead to surprising discoveries, where a simple mark or a unique colour combination of colour sparks an idea for a larger piece.

Furthermore, the act of playing in my sketchbook becomes a form of meditation, a way to connect without the pressure of judgment. It is in these moments of creativity that I often find the seeds of inspiration that can blossom into more developed ideas. By allowing myself the freedom to explore, I can break through the mental block that often accompanies the start of a new project.

In essence, the journey of finding inspiration is just as valuable as the final painting itself. It is through this playful engagement with my materials and ideas that I can uncover the motivation to begin creating. When I find myself at a standstill, i take a step back and re visit my sketchbook for a brief, uninhibited session of artistic play. I'm always surprised at what emerges from those 20 minutes of exploration, that often inspires my next piece. Some of the Inspirations also come from -

Sketchbook Inspiration

1. Take a Walk and Soak It All In

There’s nothing like stepping outside to feel inspired. I enjoy walking along the beach, through the bush, or even in my own backyard. I just love the way the colours shift as the light changes. Maybe it’s the soft blues of the ocean, the warm glow of a sunset, or the vibrant greens of the trees that spark an idea. Take a few photos or just soak it all in and let my imagination wander.

2. Tune Into my Feelings

How I'm feeling ? Excited, calm, nostalgic? Let my emotions guide me. If I'm feeling peaceful, I might lean into soft, calming hues like pastel blues and greens. On the flip side, if I'm full of energy, bold colors like fiery reds or yellows could bring my feelings to life on the canvas.

3. Dive Into the Art World

When in doubt, turn to the pros! Scroll through Pinterest, Instagram, or I visit a local gallery to see what other artists are creating. Just to soak up ideas. Often Im drawn to a particular colour palette, texture, or theme that I can make your own.

4. Look Around my home

Sometimes the best inspiration is right under my nose. Things that catches my eye? It could be the pattern on a cushion, the way sunlight hits a wall, or even the colors in my favorite coffee cup. Everyday objects can become the foundation for something amazing.

5. Get Hands-On

I don’t often wait for the perfect idea— put on some music and just start playing with paint. Mix colours together, layer them, or experiment with brushstrokes. Sometimes the act of creating without a plan leads to the most surprising results.

6. Let Stories Inspire me

A story, book, or song that’s been on my mind lately? Stories have a way of sparking visuals and feelings that translate beautifully onto a canvas. Maybe it’s a favorite lyric that inspires a dreamy landscape or a character that makes me want to create something bold and abstract. I often take voice notes If I'm driving in the car and want to remember a certain place or idea that comes to mind.

7. Use Travel Memories

I often Think back to places I have been (or places you dream of going). The colours of a bustling city, the peaceful tones of a forest, or the rich hues of a tropical sunset can all serve as incredible muses.

8. Try a Creative Prompt

Sometimes I use a prompt to get started.

• Paint the sound of your favorite song.

• Capture the feeling of your happiest memory.

• Imagine a magical place you’d love to visit.

  
  

9. Play With Colour Tools

Sometimes it’s all about the colors. Tools like Adobe Colour or Colours can help you build a palette you love. Start with a shade you’re drawn to and let the palette build itself.

10. Write It Out

Take a moment to journal about what I would like to paint. Its some times a few words or morning notes or what's on my mind — I just jot down a few words or scribble. I often find that your ideas start coming together as I put pen to paper.

Final Thoughts

Finding inspiration doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s just about taking a moment to breathe, look around, and see what speaks to me. And even if I don’t have a perfect idea, starting somewhere can lead you to a beautiful piece of art I didn’t even know I had in me.

So grab some paints, follow what excites you, and let your creativity flow. What inspires you to pick up a brush? Let us know in the comments—I would love to hear your ideas!