In this story:
Don’t think you're creative? We beg to differ. No matter your level of experience or natural talent, deep down inside of you, there’s an imaginative thinker just waiting to burst forward.
We believe that anyone can make art. It doesn’t have to be good at first. It doesn’t have to be good – ever. If perfectionism is what’s holding you back, we’re here to help you let go and start making, creating and having fun!
From baby steps to a running pace, we have a few easy activities you can work into your schedule that will help you build up your artistic stamina and let your inner creative break free.
Step 1 - Ask your family about their hobbies
Discovering a creative outlet that suits you best might take a bit of time and research, but the best places to look might be closer than you think. Is your mum an avid sewer? Does your grandad tend his garden every day? Start here!
Ask your loved ones all about their favourite hobbies and why they enjoy what they do. See how they got started and ask them for tips. Hold your nan’s yarn as she knits and listen to her story. Ask her how she keeps the tension or what a purl stitch even is. Not only do you get to spend quality time with your nearest and dearest, but you also open up your mind to new possibilities and new hobbies.
Step 2 - Oodles of doodles
When you get in from a long day, a glass of wine and some reality TV might be just the thing, but if it’s what you do every night, it’s time to mix it up!
Pick up your pen or pencil and fill any random pieces of paper with little images that bring a smile to your face. It can be simple circles that transform into imaginative made-up planets or some sketches of your favourite things, like ice cream and cute dogs. Not only will these little whimsical drawings let your ideas and imagination marinate, but they’ll also improve your hand-eye coordination, which is perfect as you move on to learn new skills.
If you think doodling is just a little escape from your boredom, think again! The therapeutic benefits of doodles were explored in one study in 2017 where researchers found that doodling can be a good way to regulate mood and evoke a sense of pleasure. This means that your little drawings can be the exact stepping stone you need to calm your brain, bring a smile to your face and find your inner creative spark!
Step 3 - Get snappy with your smartphone camera
There’s one amazing tool you have right now that can help you harness the power of your inner creative, and that’s your phone camera. If you’re staying in the same four walls all the time, you’re going to run out of inspiration eventually. So, why not venture outside to help you brainstorm ideas and find the beauty in the places around you?
Take your smartphone on a little walk and try snapping shots of what inspires you. Photography doesn’t have to involve candid portraits or stunning landscapes! You can unearth your creative spark in a concrete jungle and even strike gold with a bin or a block of flats, once you find the right angle for your picture.
Step 4 - Find a local craft class
With all the time you spent doing your research, doodling and photographing your surroundings, you’ve now got a foundation to build on. So why not dive into a learning opportunity to really hone your talents. Go back to your nan’s for knitting lessons or search for local workshops and classes to pick up some valuable craft skills.
Uncover the local creative community in your area and learn something new. Every artist has a story to tell, just like the art they create. Sit down with them in their studio and drink in all the wonderful tips and methods they have to offer as you get hands-on with macrame, painting or pottery. This life experience is unique and you may walk away with a new outlook on life as well as a new skill.
Step 5 - Host your loved ones for a tasty dinner party or fun crafternoon
Exposing a secret part of yourself isn’t easy, which is why your creative side may want to stay buried – but we think you should let it shine! Start slow by finding the person in your life you trust the most – whether that’s your sister, your mum or your best pal – and show them what you can do. Have a few people around your place to share your new talents. Whether it’s a home-cooked meal that your friends and family can sit back and enjoy or a handmade creation that they can all take part in together, you might just get some encouragement and support back in return.
As you share in your creative journey with others remember how far you’ve come and let that motivate you further. Treasure all the ideas you have, big and small, and kickstart even more projects that bring you joy!
