Since returning to art in April, I’ve often found myself visualizing and starting new drawings or paintings based on similar concepts but different themes, leading to abandoning three drawings and one painting, a situation I’ve rarely encountered before.

I would visualize my creations and often receive improved ideas that enhance my drawings of portraits and wildlife. It seems my mind is overflowing with creativity after my break, eager to express itself in ways beyond my initial visions.

I’m curious if any artist friends have faced similar issues, whether they are tattoo artists, authors, crafters, or painters. How do you handle this situation? Do you abandon your work for a new vision as I have?

I find that abandoning drawings in graphite is less disappointing than with charcoal or pastel, as graphite is easier to restart. Similarly, watercolor painting is also easy to begin anew due to its cover-up ability.

Redoing a colored pencil drawing due to a change in creative vision can be challenging; it’s best to stick with the original vision and create the new vision as a separate artwork.

Experiencing writer’s block is challenging, but visual artists face a similar issue that might be considered “visual block,” which affects our ability to express our vision instead of words.

Sincerely,

David L

Healingwithart