The start of a new year is the perfect time to embrace your creativity and explore new ways to express yourself through art. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these tips will help you stay inspired and make creativity a part of your everyday life. Here are 10 Tips to Start the Year Creatively.
10 Tips to Start the Year Creatively
1. Sketch Every Day
It doesn’t matter if it’s just for five minutes—making art a daily habit builds momentum. Keep a small sketchbook with you and draw whatever catches your eye: a cup of tea, a plant, or even the view out of your window. It’s not about creating masterpieces but about showing up regularly.
How I practice this: I keep a travel-sized sketchbook in my bag at all times. On busy days, I sketch something simple like my morning coffee or the leaves outside my window. These small moments add up over time.
2. Set Up a Creative Space
Having a designated area for your art makes it easier to get started. It doesn’t need to be a big studio—a corner of your desk or a portable art kit will do. Organise your materials so they’re ready to go when inspiration strikes.
How I practice this: My art space is a small desk by the window with all my tools within reach. I’ve also created a portable kit with pencils, watercolours, and a sketchbook for when I feel like working outside.
3. Try New Materials
Experimenting with new tools and mediums can open up fresh ideas. If you usually work in watercolours, try ink or gouache. If you’ve never collaged before, give it a go. The goal is to have fun and let curiosity lead the way.
How I practice this: Last year, I experimented with oil pastels for the first time and fell in love with their texture. I also recently started incorporating collage elements into my watercolour paintings.
4. Focus on the Process
It’s easy to get caught up in making something “perfect,” but the magic of creativity lies in the journey. Allow yourself to play, make mistakes, and explore without judgment. Each mark you make is a step forward.
How I practice this: When I’m feeling stuck, I give myself permission to create messy, unfinished pieces. Some of my favourite artworks have come from these free, playful sessions.
5. Set an Art Goal
Having a specific goal can keep you motivated. Maybe you want to fill an entire sketchbook, paint a series of landscapes, or learn how to draw portraits. Write your goal down and break it into manageable steps.
How I practice this: My goal this year is to complete a sketchbook filled with portraits. I’ve planned weekly sessions to practise and track my progress.
6. Find Inspiration Everywhere
The world is full of ideas waiting to spark your creativity. Take a walk in nature, flip through an art book, or observe the colours of everyday life. Keep an inspiration board or journal to collect things that excite you.
How I practice this: I often take my camera on walks to capture interesting textures, shadows, or colours. These photos often inspire my next painting or sketch.
7. Join a Class or Community
Creating alongside others can be incredibly motivating. Join an art class or an online group to learn new techniques and share your progress. You’ll find support, encouragement, and inspiration from others on their creative journey.
How I practice this: I regularly host and participate in online art classes. Teaching others keeps me inspired and connected to a vibrant creative community.
8. Use Creative Prompts
When you’re feeling stuck, prompts can help you get started. Try something simple like “draw something blue” or “paint a memory from childhood.” Prompts take away the pressure of deciding what to create.
How I practice this: I often create monthly prompt lists for my students and use them myself. One of my recent favourites was “draw something from your kitchen”—I ended up sketching my favourite teapot.
9. Keep Going, Even When It’s Hard
We all face creative blocks, but the key is to keep going. If you feel uninspired, start small. Draw a single line, doodle, or play with colours. Sometimes, the act of doing sparks new ideas.
How I practice this: On tough days, I switch to doodling in ink or splashing watercolours on paper without a plan. These low-pressure activities often lead to new ideas.
10. Have Fun
Remember, creativity is meant to be joyful. Let go of expectations and enjoy the process of making something uniquely yours. Celebrate the small wins and let your art bring light and happiness into your year.
How I practice this: I schedule regular “fun art days” where I create purely for joy—no deadlines or goals. It’s my time to explore and reconnect with why I love making art.
Irene Ruby is a full-time artist and the founder of Makings and Musings, where she inspires others to explore their creativity through mindful art practices. Irene believes in the power of creative expression to promote wellness and self-worth. She offers both online and in-person classes and workshops for all levels, with a focus on mindfulness and sustainability. You can find more of Irene’s work and creative resources at makingsandmusings.com.
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