The process of coming up with ideas for paintings can vary depending on each individual artist goals, mood, or environment. Here are a few common ways artists come up with painting ideas and inspiration:
1. Emotion Might Be The Most Important Aspect
For me, emotion is everything. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
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What am I feeling right now – sad, happy, emotional, nostalgic?
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How can I express these emotions?
Example: A sense of nostalgia might become a painting of an idea from your childhood or a location that you remember fondly.
2. Storytelling or Symbolism
Artists often convey meaningful times in their lives. Think about:
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A personal story you want to visualize – your childhood home or your favorite time at the beach.
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Symbolic elements such as a rusty gate or an old lonely windmill.
3. Everyday Life
Inspiration is everywhere:
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Scenic locations, nature, people, or a favorite animal.
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Look back at some of your favorite photos and notice the little things (a swing hanging from a tree, an old doorway or a barn that has seen better days)
4. Use Your Imagination
Your imagination is so very powerful. Ask:
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Where would I live if I could choose anywhere? Would I live in the mountains, the desert, a beautiful valley with wildflowers?
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What if I could live in a little house with a stream nearby? Or, what if I could live in a little house on a mountain with cows just below?
5. Art Challenges
Participate in challenges like: write down 20 ideas for new art work that you would enjoy. Of these 20 ideas, identify your 5 favorite ideas. Begin by choosing your top idea and set a date to begin working on the piece.
7. Photography
Let photographs guide your visuals. Look at your favorite photos and decide which ones REALLY speak to you. Allow the photograph to be your inspiration for new art.
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