She knew I'd been through this many times with my painting, each time claiming I was quitting for good but invariably returning to the brushes and paints.
What, she asked, could she do to rejuvenate her interest in her dancing?
I could only tell her some of my experiences as a painter...
- Giving yourself a break often does the trick. Take a little time off to explore other interests, be with friends, travel, or just contemplate life. Don't worry - if the muse truly is calling you, your time away from your art will make you want to go back to it all the more.
- Spend time with like-minded friends doing something other than your art.
- Think outside of your pattern - do something different with your art. If you're a painter, try a different medium, style, or subject matter. Or try sculpting! Dancers can try different forms of dance. Mix it up a little to stay interested.
- For me, taking time out to visit museums or art galleries will often shake me out of a rut. Seeing the work of other artists usually makes me want to get back to my studio and work on my own.
- Have several paintings going at one time. This allows me the luxury of switching to another painting when I get bored with the one on the easel.
- Challenge yourself - give yourself less time to complete a painting. Maybe you're getting bored because you're belaboring every square inch of the canvas.
- Expand your mind - take a class or workshop. It doesn't have to be art-related, but it should be a topic that interests you.
- Make sure you're not suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder or some sort of chronic depression. If you are, get help.
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