Week 7

Overcoming mindsets.

As humans, when we are faced with a problem, creative or otherwise, we automatically revert to a way of solving it that has worked for us before. This is known as habitual thinking and for creatives, can lead to work becoming stale and repetitive. It's staying in our “comfort zone” and not taking risks and trying new things in our art practice. This is why it is important to try and teach yourself to break free from these engrained mindsets.

This is easier said than done, the key is to use critical assessment. If we can identify the things that we find safe or easy, know we’re good at, etc, we can work towards breaking free of them. Pushing and challenging ourselves will lead to varied and improved work. Approach every new project with an open mind. Think “What have I done before? Is this work reminiscent of earlier work? What could I do differently?” I know I myself am guilty of this. Drawing similar things over and over again. Being so focused on my interested area of illustration that I neglect others and don’t give them the time to let them educate and improve my craft.

Keeping a creative workspace

Your workspace is somewhere you should feel relaxed and free. The environment that we work in can have a huge impact on what we produce. If we feel confined or drained, this frustration will show through in the quality of the work. It is important to maintain a balance of comfort and functionality. Have it as an ambient and inspirational place, with things that influence you around you. Images, music, video, fragrance, whatever helps connect you to what you’re currently trying to do. At the same time it should be organised and well maintained, because spending time looking for and cleaning things can take you out of that artistic “flow” or “zone” and waste time. Dirty working areas can also transfer and damage the artwork.


Above is the asrtist Tara Mcpherson in her studio. Note how she has lots of images on the walls, reference and inspirational pictures, as well as past and ongoing work to keep herself in check. There are also lots of books and toys, and though it may seem cluttered, it has not become chaotic or untidy. Surfaces and tools are kept clean to ensure the best outcomes.