12 Fixes for Creative Burnout

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Sometimes, as Hamlet can attest, life hits us with the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. Other times, we’re just busy. Or exhausted. Whatever the cause, one of the outcomes can be a feeling of diminished creativity. We asked a few award-winning artists and art instructors—as well as our wider Artists Network community—to share some of the ways in which they take up arms against this sea of creative troubles to end them. Read on for a dozen ideas, strategies and ways to refocus perspectives.

“Once, after listening to Itzhak Perlman perform a Beethoven violin concerto, it was a listener’s response that inspired me to go back to work: ‘How can I complain in life after hearing music played like this by a man who cannot walk, composed by a man who could not hear?’ ” 

—W. Truman Hosner

 “It helps to take care of yourself. Eat healthy, sleep well and make sure to take time to step outside of the studio and breathe. Whether it’s going on a hike, visiting a winery or listening to live music—so many experiences can fuel and renew creativity. I never know what will spark my next painting idea.”

—Matthew Bird 

 “Building play and experimentation sessions into my creative routine keeps me on my toes, keeps my work fresh and allows space for surprises.”

—Suhita Shirodkar

“Burnout, for me, manifests as the absence of curiosity. When I no longer feel struck by the world around me or compelled to paint it, I know something is wrong. That’s when I make an effort to find something that piques my curiosity— something that sparks awe and wonder. If I can get that childlike wonder back, I know I’ll be headed back to my easel with renewed vigor.” 

—Anna Rose Bain

More Advice

Here’s what we heard when we asked our wider art community to weigh in. If you’d like to join in the conversation, look for our questions for “The Ask” on Facebook and Instagram @ArtistsNetwork.

“When I experience creative burnout, I step away from paper and pencil to reconnect with the essence of my art. Light, shadow and emotion exist beyond the artwork. I observe them in everyday life, in faces, in nature. Remembering why I draw, rather than what I draw, always brings inspiration back to me.”  —Agnieszka Kotarska

“When I’m feeling burnout, I like to shake things up by taking my art outside—literally. I paint a response to nature on paper, then tear it up and reassemble it into something new. It’s amazing how this process can help me see things from a fresh perspective and get my creative juices flowing again.” —Ann Rayment

“When I feel burnt out, I go for a walk and take my camera. If I see anything that’s inspiring, I’ll take a picture and paint it later. That helps me.” —Rebecca Pippin

“I try a different type of art, a new technique or a combination of techniques just to see where it goes. It helps bring the passion and motivation back.” —De Anne

“I enjoy looking at my paints, picking out colors, making swatches, and trying out mixes. I also scroll through my photos until one or two catch my eye, and then I sit down to play with paint!” —Terry Fellin

“I do something else creative. I might do some baking or sewing, or learn how to use a different medium or subject. My neurology background explains how this creates new brain pathways.” —Nancy Brue

“Take a walk in nature!” —Grace Robinson

“I’ll take a random canvas or sheet of paper, whatever is available. Then, I close my eyes or look away and let my hand make random marks with a pen. After 10 or so random marks, I take a look and try turning them into random word illustrations. Just one rule: no erasing. The idea is to just have fun. I’ve made some of my favorite designs doing this.” — goodtimecomics