The field of art is one with a heavy burden of expectation; perfectionism can often be the death of great creativity. Fears of failure and rejection are ultimately at the centre of this weight, and it is this very crux we wish to subvert through this exhibit WiP {Work in Progress.}

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The act of painting is an ongoing exploration of light, texture, materiality, patience and skill abounding in trials, errors and happy accidents. Studies lead to different compositions of shapes, colours and techniques without fear.

 “Within those moments of uninhibited freedom, magic happens.” (Project Art Toronto, 2022)

WiP (Work in Progress) shares the work of 5 artists from Project Art Toronto’s studio. A glimpse into their painting process and the artists' dialogue between subject matter and media. 

Each artist brings their approach to the creative process and unique artistic style and identity. Through the works of these artists, we will be able to experience the joy of exploration and self-discovery.

In the spirit of free-flowing creativity, here are 5 strategies to help capture inspiration:

1. Let go of your fear

It’s important to approach all our endeavors equipped with a sense of self-assurance and confidence! Embark on every new project with a sense of wonder and discovery, and the knowledge that your creative process is part of your art. Fear should be parted with to achieve creative flow.  It was Claude Monet when asked to give advice on painting who said to not be afraid of making mistakes. This is crucial for creativity, to let go of the things holding us back so we may let our creative spirit flow. A Harvard Business Review article by Tom Kelley and David Kelley, explains that there are four common hangups that block our creativity. They include fear of the first step, fear of being judged, fear of the messy unknown, and fear of losing control.

These fears can be the kryptonite to our creativity, but with courage and confidence, we can overcome them.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice

It’s said that to become a master of any skill, one must be prepared to dedicate over 1,000 hours. Practicing the techniques that we have learned can make inspiration more readily available. In a similar way to how one must learn to run before they can play basketball, or to play the violin before being able to play in a symphony, mastering the physical techniques and mediums we wish to work with will make it much easier to use them in our creations. 

3. Iteration is the mother of creation

It is easy to fall into the trap of wanting our first attempt to be the best and only one, but more often than not having multiple attempts and versions is what is most likely to lead to dissatisfaction. The progress made with each iteration is where the magic of creativity lives.

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4. Reboot your brain

Often the best way to rekindle our focus and inspiration is to step back from our project altogether. Psychologist Robert Epstein, PhD, a Harvard graduate, says stress and time constraints can squash your creative process.

Here are a few ways to give your mind a reset:

• Snack break: Sometimes we focus best when we satisfy our stomachs. Find a snack to munch on while you think!

• Shake it out: If you are having trouble focusing or finding your inspiration, physical movement can be a great energizer. Get up, stretch, take a walk, or do a little dance, give your limbs and joints a shake, just move!

• Shift gears: Diverting your focus to another project or subject can help get the creative juices flowing when the well is running dry. Consider switching to an old project, watching a video about a different type of art, or even reading a book to give your brain a different influx of ideas.

• Siesta time: Sometimes the best way to reset our mind is to shut it off completely for a moment and rest. Set a timer for 15 minutes and find a cool and comfortable spot to catch a few Z’s, it can be just what your creative brain needs.

• Space out: There can be times when we can benefit the most from just disengaging our minds. Why not lie on some grass and watch the clouds pass by?

5. Take a second look

Take a moment to pause your mind, and look around you at all of the things you usually encounter, but this time, try to look beyond what you normally see. Find in its countenance the beauty or interest you might have missed. How would you describe this object, colour, or texture to someone who could not see it? 

Find the grace in the curves of a vase or cup on your table, and take in the rhythm and movement of the branches and leaves of a tree you are familiar with. Be sure to take notes of your observations and thoughts, these are just for you, so don’t worry about editing, write any thoughts that arise, or take a picture to refer back to at a later time.

 When we take a second look we can be surprised by the inspiration we find. Approaching our day-to-day surroundings with curiosity and wonder can bring about great ideas.

6. Relish where you are at

Every masterpiece has been a Work in Progress until the creator decides it is completed.  Unfinished projects possess a special quality of possibility and transition, which is beautiful in and of itself. Take a moment to appreciate your progress and the stage your project is in, without judgment or criticism, and let yourself love every aspect and minute that is a part of its journey.

Twist Gallery is thrilled to announce that we will be hosting WiP (Work in Progress) for September with Project Art Toronto. An anticipated exhibit to be featured at our space. Stay tuned for more on WiP and how the process came to life with an amazing group of artists from Project Art Toronto. 

Retrieved from:

*Harvard Business Review, Reclaim Your Creative Confidence in August 2022

**American Psychological Association, The Science of Creativity in August 2022

***Greater Good Magazine, How Mind-Wandering May Be Good For You in August 2022