Creative Blocks + Creative Dreams

Some people enjoy coffee to get their day started. I enjoy quotes.

Like most mornings, yesterday I posted a quote and a work it inspired on Threads. And since it was Alexander Hamilton's birthday, I chose him as the subject.

Usually, these are just warm-up pieces.
Made well before the sun comes up.

But with the rest of the Collide Press Crew off working on other projects and me running the shops/sites solo, I've been facing a bit of a creative block.

This isn't my first rodeo (or creative block), so I turned to a few tips and tricks that have helped me in the past, including:

• Research + Development
  Check: Pinterest + Wordpress + YouTube

• Quotes + Words Of Wisdom
  Check: 2nd Hamilton Quote/Art Post
  Check: 1st Calder Quote/Hamilton Art Video Post

I ended the day pretty happy with my progress. Though still noodling about my creative block. And also about the video art I made.

Overnight, I had vivid dreams about the video. About how to make Alexander Hamilton's mobile flicker and sway.

I'm not a regular dreamer, so as soon as I woke up, I grabbed my trusty iPad and made the version I dreamt about. And posted it. On both Threads and YouTube.

Not sure my creative block is fully resolved, but I'm not going to worry about it too much. That usually helps speed up the recovery process too.

Below are a list of more creative tips and tricks for any creative blocks you might be having. Along with news, quotes, and videos.

Thanks for reading!
Clint

Alexander Hamilton Mobile In Motion After Alexander Calder v2

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CREATIVE BLOCKS: TIPS + TRICKS

Dealing with creative block can be challenging, but there are various tips and tricks that may help you overcome it. Here are some suggestions:

• TAKE A BREAK
  Step away from your work and engage in a different activity.
  Sometimes, a change of scenery or a short break can refresh your mind.

• EXERCISE
  Physical activity can stimulate creativity and help break through mental blocks.
  Go for a walk, run, or do some light exercises.

• MinMINDFULNESS + MEDITATION
  Practice mindfulness or meditation to clear your mind and reduce stress.
  This can create a mental space for new ideas to emerge.

• EXPLORE OTHER CREATIVE OUTLETS
  Try a different form of creative expression, such as drawing, music, or writing.
  Sometimes, shifting your focus to another medium can open up new perspectives.

• COLLABORATE
  Brainstorming with colleagues or friends can bring fresh ideas and perspectives.
  Collaborative efforts often lead to creative breakthroughs.

• LIMIT DISTRACTIONS
  Create a focused and quiet environment for work.
  Minimize distractions/interruptions to help you concentrate.

• CHANGE YOUR ROUTINE
  Break out of your daily routine.
  A change can disrupt patterns that contribute to creative blocks.

• SEEK INSPIRATION
  Explore art, literature, or any form of creative work that inspires you.
  Inspiration can come from unexpected sources.

• SET SMALL(ER) GOALS
  Break down your project into smaller, manageable tasks.
  Achieving small goals can build momentum and boost your confidence.

• EMBRACE IMPERFECTION
  Don't be afraid of making mistakes or creating imperfect work.
  Accepting imperfections can free you from the fear of failure.

• READ/WATCH SOMETHING NEW
  Exposure to new ideas and perspectives can stimulate creativity.
  Read a book, watch a documentary, or explore content outside your usual interests.

• TAKE CREATIVE RISKS
  Step out of your comfort zone and experiment with new ideas or techniques.
  Taking risks can lead to innovative and unexpected results.

While creative blocks are a common challenge, different strategies work for different people at different times. Experiment to find what works best for you.

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WORDS OF WISDOM

“A self-respecting artist must not fold his hands on the pretext that he is not in the mood.”
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” 
Maya Angelou

“You can, you should, and if you’re brave enough to start, you will.”
Stephen King

“That’s the great secret of creativity. You treat ideas like cats: you make them follow you.”
Ray Bradbury

“The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.” 
Sylvia Plath

“Inspiration is for amateurs — the rest of us just show up and get to work.”
Chuck Close

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