From Inspiration to Creation

Finding inspiration is an integral part of the creative process, but how do we move away from the original “inspiration” and arrive at our own art, especially if we get inspired by someone else’s work? This is a question I get asked a lot by my block printing students. And it’s such an important question to ask – how can we approach our inspiration with integrity and stay true to ourselves? We are surrounded by inspiration, and there is nothing that has not been done before in one way or the other. So let’s have a look at a few strategies: 

1. DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION FROM DIVERSE SOURCES
Explore a wide range of sources to gather inspiration. Keep a sketchbook or an inspiration journal to document your ideas and sources of inspiration. The more sources you have and the more diverse they are, the less tempted you will be to simply replicate someone else’s work.

2. UNCOVER THE ESSENCE OF INSPIRATION 
When you find inspiring work, take a moment to ask yourself, “What is it about this artwork or design that fascinates me?” Is it the emotion it evokes, the technical complexity, or the creative vision? Is it the composition, one of the design elements, or the use of color? By identifying these aspects, you will not only know better what inspires you, but you can use this inspiration as a jumping-off point for your own creations.

3. INCORPORATE YOUR UNIQUE IDEAS
Instead of copying, use the elements that inspire you as a starting point to incorporate your own ideas and style. Let your creativity flow and add your personal touch to the inspiration you gather. Experiment with different techniques, mediums, and perspectives to infuse your work with originality.

4. GIVE CREDIT AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE INFLUENCE 
If you are directly inspired by someone else’s work, it’s important to acknowledge and credit them. While learning from the masters and previous artists is valuable, be mindful of the line between inspiration and copying. Over centuries the old masters copied older masters to learn their techniques of how they created their masterpieces. Copying for learning can be fine – as long as you do this behind closed doors and never show it as your “own original” work, even with small changes. It is still someone else’s work even when you drew, carved, or printed it based on their design. Go back to the question of what it is that fascinates you about that design. Composition, some design elements, the technical complexity, the use of color, light, texture, … ? Use the knowledge you gain to develop your own style, ensuring that your creations showcase your unique voice.

5. EMBRACE AUTHENTICITY AND DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE VOICE 
Discovering your creative voice is an exciting journey in the artistic world. It’s a chance for personal growth in a world filled with diverse voices and influences. Your uniqueness and authenticity are what makes you stand out and push your creative journey forward.

To find your creative voice, take time to reflect on your own experiences and values. Trust your instincts, and try things outside your usual comfort zone. It might be easier said than done, but don’t let yourself be influenced by what other people do and thus feel “forced” to go the same direction for the pure sake of “because they are doing it, I have to do it too”. Go inward and create what truly inspires you. It does not need to be perfect – making mistakes is part of the learning process.

Remember, it takes time to find your creative voice. You typically don’t find your creative voice overnight but through steady work, through creating regularly. The more you create, the clearer your unique style and perspective will become. Keep creating regularly to improve your skills and refine your voice. Enjoy every step of this journey, and be open to growing and evolving along the way.

Embrace your individuality, let your true self shine in your creations, and enjoy the satisfying journey of making art that’s real, meaningful, and uniquely yours.