This summer I was hit with one of the longest and most intense waves of inspiration I’ve had in years. I created so many paintings, sketches, collages, poems and pieces of music that I lost count. Of course, when I was riding the wave it felt like it would never end. I naively promised my Patrons that I’d be posting fresh art every day from now on. Then it just suddenly stopped. I sat down with a big fresh stack of magazines, got out my scissors and glue and…. nothing.
Looking back at this summer's body of work it’s hard to believe it was me that made any of it. It was made by someone who had complete faith in what they were doing. At some point in the last few months that faith was shaken and self doubt took root. It’s not the first time it has happened. But it is the first time I’ve been okay with it.
In the past I have found creative block utterly crippling. Just as the wave of inspiration felt unbreakable, so its opposite felt equally solid and final. When creativity is what pays your bills a prolonged creative block can have absolutely devastating consequences and the resulting panic pulls you further down like quicksand. But this time I am calm.
I’ve been working on a huge piece for a couple of months now and I’ve probably got another six weeks or so left. It was conceived during my creative high point but, crucially, it was impossible to finish immediately. This feels like a huge discovery. When new ideas are scarce, having something to mindlessly chip away at is a great comfort. Instead of staring, frozen in fear, at a blank canvas, page or screen I am engaged in a long term goal, regularly entering flow state which in turn frees up the mind and helps clear the block.
Next time you’re inspired, why not start something really ambitious? Resist the urge to complete it immediately and let its creation outlast the inevitable crashing of the wave. You’ll then have something to pour yourself into while waiting for the next wave to come. Which it will.
