Getting back into art after a long break can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.
Start by easing into it with short drawing sessions and treating it as a playful exploration rather than a chore.
Focus on small, enjoyable projects to reignite your passion. Take this time as an opportunity to experiment and rediscover your love for art.
But that’s just the beginning; there’s more to explore to reconnect with your artistic side.
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Start with short, enjoyable drawing sessions, like 15 minutes a day.
- Warm up with simple art exercises, such as scribbling and drawing basic shapes.
- Avoid comparing yourself to other artists to maintain focus on personal progress.
- Draw subjects that genuinely inspire and motivate you.
- Find inspiration by connecting with other artists and participating in drawing challenges.
Take It Easy
Don’t pressure yourself to create a masterpiece right away when you’re getting back into art after a long break.
Instead, start small with small drawing sessions, even just 15 minutes daily. This approach keeps your creative time manageable and enjoyable.
Think of it as a playful exploration rather than an intimidating task. By focusing on small, fun projects, you’ll reignite your passion and gradually build your confidence.
Remember: the goal is to make it fun and reintroduce the joy of creating art.
Update: Here’s a video of me discussing these tips for getting back into art.
Warm Up With Simple Art Exercises
Start making art again by warming up with simple art exercises. Try scribbling and sketching doodles, drawing basic shapes, or redrawing an old piece you love.
These exercises are perfect to get back into making art without feeling overwhelmed.
Scribbling lets your hand move freely, breaking the ice and avoiding blank page syndrome. Drawing basic shapes helps you regain control and precision, essential skills for any artist.
Redrawing an old cherished piece can remind you of your artistic progress and rekindle your passion.
Not only that, but when you start to draw and paint using these exercises, you’ll start to build your confidence again.
Avoid Comparing Yourself To Other Artists
Many artists trying to get back into drawing have stopped making art because they’re comparing themselves with other artists.
This is (unfortunately) quite normal.
It’s important to resist the urge to compare your art journey with others, as every artist’s path is unique.
Everyone’s skill levels and styles develop at different paces.
Avoid comparing yourself to other artists because it can lead to unnecessary frustration and self-doubt.
Instead, focus on your own progress and celebrate every small achievement.
Grab up your pencil and sketchbook and start drawing, don’t look back.
Draw What Inspires You
One of the best ways to get back into creating is to draw what inspires you. Art school doesn’t cover this, but I honestly think it should focus more on what each particular artist enjoys creating.
And this starts by finding what inspires you to create.
Exploring your unique style becomes more enjoyable when you draw what genuinely inspires you. Whether it’s a favorite character, a memorable scene from a movie, or any subject that sparks your creativity.
Getting inspired by what truly moves you is so important.
By focusing on subjects that resonate with you, you’ll naturally tap into your creative side and produce authentic and exciting work.
You’ll also get back to your art and get good at art much faster this way!
Find Inspiration From Other Artists
If you’re feeling lost or just want to get your creative juices flowing, finding inspiration from other artists helps you get started right away!
You don’t need to connect with them if you don’t want to.
You can just have fun enjoying art they’ve created!
It was something that made me want to get back into fine art again: watching so many different traditional artists who are super inspiring.
Connecting with other artists and exploring their work can also invigorate your own creative journey. You open yourself up to new techniques, styles, and ideas.
Engage with their content, observe their processes, and learn from their experiences.
You can also participate in drawing challenges for an extra push out of your comfort zone!
Have Fun With Art
Life gets in the way, and sometimes it’s hard to find the time to complete a piece of art and improve your art skills.
So, just focus on the fun part of art.
Remember, the joy of creativity is what made many of us artists decide to draw in the first place.
Focus on enjoying the process without stressing about the outcome.
Here are three specific ways to have fun with art:
- Experiment with Different Art Styles: Try surrealism, abstract, or even pop art. Mixing styles can spark new ideas.
- Play with Various Art Supplies: Use markers, oil painting, pastels, digital tools or other art materials. Each medium offers unique possibilities.
- Join Art Challenges: Participate in online prompts or local workshops. They provide structure and community.
Your creativity will more easily improve in a playful, stress-free environment!
Conclusion
Getting back into art after a long break can feel intimidating, but remember, it’s all about enjoying the journey.
I hope these tips for getting back into art have helped you! And that you get inspired to make a bunch of different art.
Take it easy and start with simple exercises to build confidence.
And most importantly, have fun and embrace this phase of playful exploration.
You’ve got this. And as always:
Keep on drawing!
Want to learn a new Illustration Style? Here are 13 Types Of Illustration Styles To Try!
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Patricia Caldeira is the main writer here at Don Corgi. She's an art teacher with over 20.000 happy students across many platforms and courses!
Enjoy your stay and as always:
Keep on drawing!
