We’re probably all familiar with the phrase “priming the pump”. It means to do something that encourages growth or gets things moving. It comes from the process of filling a pump with water to remove the unwanted air that keeps it from working properly. Recently I found myself stalled out in the creative department, and I needed to prime my own creative pump so to speak. Besides the fact I did NOT have any lovely new ideas, I really just didn’t care either. Been there? Can you relate?
So, I thought I would share a few ideas that have helped me start to get back on my creative feet. (And by the way, I don’t want to hear any of you mumbling under your breath that you have no creativity. WE ALL DO – in a myriad of ways! It’s just discovering and recognizing which is YOUR path- what kind of creativity uniquely brings YOU joy).
Here are 3 simple suggestions that helped me and hopefully will help you - so you can “Prime Your Pump”…
1. Studio Reset - Clean out and organize the space where you create. Maybe that even means initially creating a space in the first place. I took EVERYTHING off my worktable and dusted (cough, cough), wiped, threw away and reorganized. Ahhh – that voice calling me to the table is much clearer and more inviting now. 😉
2. Find an Inspiring, New Artist to Investigate. Copy one of their pieces. I was fascinated recently to learn about Helene Schjerfbeck, 1862-1946 (check out ALL the consonants in her name!). She’s one of the most famous women painters of Finland, and her works are currently on exhibit at the MET in New York. Her artistic journey and perseverance through poor health, financial strain, self doubt and identity were very inspiring to me. I loved her different styles and amazing self portraits painted throughout her life.
3. Think of something you L💗VE right now. I didn’t feel like painting flowers or landscapes, or anything really (!). BUT I happen to love fresh pages in new journals – and I love playing around with number & letter design. When I sat down and started designing the numbers 2-0-2-6 in different layouts and designs, I was happily lost in right-brain-land. I copied the little birdie from one of my favorite artists, Adolph Bernd… and VOILA! all of a sudden I was in a different place emotionally & creatively.
Perhaps it’s the perfect time to prime your own creative pump! Maybe one of these ideas will help - or - make you think of another activity that works better for you. Whatever it is, I hope you can find something that stirs all the unique and wonderful creativity that’s just waiting to be expressed only through YOU.
Here’s to a NEW year of artful flourishing and creative flow in 2026!
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