What Inspires My Artwork

IN THE STUDIO WITH MY INSPIRATIONAL FINDS

Coming up with fresh creative ideas and clarifying my intentions for my next project can sometimes be more challenging than necessary, commonly known as a creative block! Allowing myself the freedom to figure out what message I want to convey entails shifting focus away from the final outcome, relinquishing the urge to control the end result, and fully embracing the creative process to enable new ideas to flow more effortlessly. For instance, during my morning stroll, I tend to be drawn to seemingly insignificant details that others might overlook, but which spark something within me that I save for later use. This could involve taking a few photos, jotting down notes on my phone, or simply storing the inspiration in the recesses of my mind alongside other creative concepts that may fuel my artistic endeavours. By being fully present, I create space for these moments to emerge.

When I'm back in the studio, this translates into recording ideas in a sketchbook, experimenting with various materials and compositions, and most importantly, granting myself the freedom to explore. This exploration may not always yield aesthetically pleasing or immediately inspiring results, but there is always a valuable lesson that I can incorporate into my new project. Throughout this creative journey, it is crucial to silence external influences and turn inward, listening to my intuitive voice, disregarding passing trends, and having confidence in my own creative process. When a piece of artwork reaches the ugly stage where the completely uncensored mark making now needs to be tamed, a common experience at this point in the creative process. Navigating through stage is done by focusing more on the technical design elements where I start to bring some balance to the composition. I can only achieve this by respond to what currently presents itself after each application on the canvas.

 Remaining true to my message guides me through the different stages of creating each piece of art, leading to a work that not only narrates my story but also mirrors the transformative journey I underwent to express it. I believe that it is this personal voyage that enriches the artwork with depth and fascination.