From time to time, I hear about writer’s and artist’s blocks. I think I have both right now! I have good ideas and notes for blog posts. I have good ideas, quick sketches and a body of very interesting photographs to develop into pieces for my continuing print series. But what I seem to be lacking in is the energy and motivation to grab the bull by the horns and just do it! I fiddle around with “light” stuff, skirting the real meaty stuff with that guilty glance out of the corner of my eye. Actually it’s not just a lack of energy; energy comes with motivation, doesn’t it? It’s amazing how much energy I have when I’m motivated, then excited by what I’m doing.

I’ve had artist’s block before (as all artists do) and it usually comes when I’ve taken too long a break in my work, particularly when one series has ended and before I’ve been able to get immersed in a new one. Usually I work through it by looking at past work and doing some quick trials. This time, though I have the ideas and materials, I haven’t had the motivation to make myself do any work. I know it’s partly, and only partly, due to many distractions this past month in my personal life – house guests, a friend’s death, ongoing but minor health issues and catch-up work around home and garden. But those kind of “distractions” are all part of life. I certainly don’t believe in giving up my family, friends and home for the sake of my art! Meanwhile, I’m waiting for that bolt from the sky to shake me out of this rut!

So, my dear writers and artists reading this – what do you do to break out of your block?

Many posts waiting to be written,
art work to be done,
an exciting opening missed,
because I’ve got a cold.
Now trying to ready myself
emotionally and physically
for a memorial service
for a dear friend.
Sigh.