To Create, You Must Consume

I’ve met some artists, both beginner and intermediate, that are on a constant run to make art. They seem to have a pressure, a compulsion almost, to create. I feel that sometimes. But did you know that fueling that desire to create sometimes requires a focus on not creating?

Heya! Kanjon here. Ever thought about how much motivation you have through the day? Times when you feel like you can make a lot, and times where it’s hard to pick up a pencil? Let’s picture that as a pool of creative energy, like this. When we make things like art, we start to use it up. And over time, as we let ourselves relax, it slowly fills back up. Some efforts use this up more quickly, and some don’t use as much.

This energy is easy to run out of, and it’s OK when that happens, it’s a regular occurrence for most people. If you can recognize when that happens and take the right steps, you can help fill that energy pool right back up. Recognizing this is different for every person, but you’ve probably run into it: moments where you suddenly feel frustrated with your work, or where you’re itching to take a break even if you haven’t done a lot, or if you’re doodling without really knowing what to make.

Time to fill up! Go watch some TV, or a movie, or YouTube. (Hi there!) Look at some art books. Do something that lets you consume the media you’re trying to make. Yes, I’m giving you permission to slack off! This is part of human living and is actually crucial to helping ourselves be creative. By consuming media, you’re giving your mind a break from the pressure to create. You’re seeing things that other people make, which can often subtly inspire you to create, even if you don’t realize it. And, you often will pick up on things you’ve been studying. Working on anatomy? Maybe that movie helps you notice parts of muscles. Improving your stylistic shading? Hey, that anime you’re watching looks like it does cell shading pretty well.

Recently, I spent the weekend at Furality Somna, a VR convention, and that was a moment to re-energize for myself. Here’s some pictures! I had fun discovering the worlds, hanging out with friends, and finding every single bed. I just let myself have fun. It’s also been making me want to create some more things: I have a VRChat world I’ve been planning out for a few weeks. Hopefully I’ll be able to share more on that soon.

Relax a bit, but don’t overdo it. Days and weeks of just watching movies is going a bit past recharging, and creating art is more than just how much energy you feel like you have. Sometimes it’s making yourself get up and do it, working past the fear of starting. The real skill of creative pursuit is about balance. Don’t get yourself stuck in a mindset that you must be making and creating things every day. I sure don’t! Between making videos, my own art, and other hobbies, it’s a lot and I need breaks too. It’s OK! I’m still finding my own balance as my interests evolve. See if you can find yours. Take care of yourself, and I’ll see you here next time.