The blank canvas is one of the most intimidating elements of the creative process. Its pure, untouched surface can feel like a challenge, a demand for perfection, or even a confrontation with our own self-doubt. Whether you’re an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, the fear of starting something new is a universal experience. But what if the blank canvas wasn’t a threat, but an invitation? This article explores strategies and mindsets to help artists move past this common roadblock and embrace the creative journey.

Introduction: The Power of Taking the First Step

Every artist, at some point, faces the fear of beginning. The blank canvas can feel like an overwhelming challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of seeing it as an obstacle, consider it an open door—one that leads to growth, discovery, and expression. 

Hey there! 👋 I’m Carrie. Here on Artist Strong, I help self-taught artists draw or paint anything they want. To date, thousands have joined the community.

👉🏽👉🏽👉🏽 If you feel like gaps in your learning hold you back from making your best art, sign up and watch my workshop, “How to Create Art from Your Imagination.” It’s completely free, and the link is in the description below.

Today I will guide you through practical and mindset-based strategies to help you embrace the unknown, start with confidence, and cultivate a habit of creative action.

1. Reframe Your Mindset: See the Canvas as an Opportunity

One of the biggest hurdles with a blank canvas is the pressure we place on ourselves to create something “good.” But what if you shifted your mindset? Instead of seeing the canvas as a test of your skills, view it as an opportunity to explore, experiment, and play.

Creativity thrives on curiosity and freedom, not perfection. Try approaching your work with the idea that your first brushstroke doesn’t need to be “perfect” or “intentional.” It can be messy, chaotic, and spontaneous. That initial mark is a way to break the ice with the canvas and start a conversation with your art.

Sometimes all it takes is making a single move—that first brushstroke—to unlock momentum and let creativity flow. Don’t wait for inspiration to strike; take action, and the inspiration will often follow.

2. Create a Ritual to Start

Many artists find comfort in establishing a ritual or routine that signals the beginning of their creative time. This could be as simple as:

• Cleaning and organizing your workspace
• Lighting a candle or playing a favorite playlist
• Doing a quick warm-up sketch or swatch test to loosen your hand and mind

Rituals can help ease you into the creative process by creating a sense of familiarity and focus. They serve as a gentle bridge from the chaos of daily life to the concentrated world of art-making.

What’s one ritual that helps your practice? Or, what is one ritual you could incorporate into your studio time? Tell me more in the comments below.

3. Lower the Stakes: It’s Okay to Make “Bad” Art

Perfectionism can be paralyzing. Many of us approach the blank canvas with the expectation that we need to create something amazing from the outset. But this mindset can lead to procrastination or creative block.

Instead, give yourself permission to create “bad” art. Experiment, fail, and make mistakes without judgment. These moments are stepping stones to discovery. Even unfinished or unsatisfactory pieces are valuable because they teach you what works, what doesn’t, and what resonates with you.

When I brought up this topic on Threads someone commented somewhat snidely “there is no such thing as bad art.” Honestly, I agree with him. The issue at hand is that individuals, myself included, have inner critics that whisper the word “bad” in our ear. It’s something we think about and battle even if we don’t say it out loud. 

Unfinished work isn’t a measure of failure. Instead, it’s part of the process. Many artists find that their strongest work emerges after a series of missteps and explorations. So let go of the idea that every piece must be a masterpiece. Start with the goal of making something—anything—and let the rest unfold naturally.

4. Harness Moments of Inspiration

Have you ever felt a sudden burst of creative energy, only to suppress it because you felt obligated to finish another task first? When inspiration strikes, lean into it. Those moments of clarity and enthusiasm are rare, and they often hold the seeds of your best ideas.

While it’s important to practice discipline and finish projects, don’t let that stop you from starting something new when you feel the pull. If you have multiple unfinished pieces, that’s okay. They’re not failures; they’re part of your creative journey.

By embracing inspiration when it comes, you allow yourself to follow the threads of your creativity. The passion and energy from these moments will often lead to work that feels alive and authentic.

5. Start Small: Break Down the Intimidation

The size of your canvas can sometimes amplify the fear. A large, empty surface can feel overwhelming, while a smaller one might feel more manageable. Consider starting with smaller canvases or sketches to build confidence and momentum.

Another way to reduce intimidation is to break the canvas into sections. Use painter’s tape to create grids or outlines, and focus on one area at a time. This approach helps you see the canvas as a collection of smaller challenges rather than one large, daunting task.

You don’t have to face the blank canvas alone. This is what we cover inside my program Self-Taught to Self-Confident, where you learn how to draw or paint anything you want. I give you structure and support to take small, manageable steps that help you step into the artist you’re meant to be. 

If you are an artist with a home studio who has taken paint like me classes, and think of yourself as a hobbyist, but have this question of, “what if,” and you feel like there’s something more for you…

I have an A-to-Z method that walks you through filling in gaps in your foundations and how to show up regularly to make art that comes from your mind. You walk away with a series of artworks that showcase your unique voice.

Get a taste of my teaching and learn more when you sign up for my workshop “How to Create Art from Your Imagination,” which you can watch for free. 

It’s time to embrace the calling in your heart to do something more with your art. Link is here and in the comments below.

 

6. Take Action: Strategies to Break the Ice

When faced with a blank canvas, the best thing you can do is take action, any action. Here are some practical strategies:

• Start with a Background: Apply a wash of color, add texture with a palette knife, or create random marks to get rid of the “blankness.”
• Experiment with Tools: Try new brushes, sponges, or even unconventional tools like credit cards to make marks and patterns.
• Play with Prompts: Use prompts like “paint the feeling of joy” or “create something inspired by the last song you listened to.” These can provide direction without being overly rigid.
• Limit Your Palette: Choose just two or three colors to simplify decision-making and encourage focus.

Which strategy will you use today? If you have another strategy you’ve used, go ahead and share that in the comments below, too. Let’s do our best to support one another. The world is better with more art in it!

7. Embrace Play and Exploration

Art doesn’t have to be serious all the time. Approach your canvas with a sense of play. Experiment with materials you’ve never tried, mix unconventional colors, or mimic techniques you’ve seen in other artists’ work.

Remember, every experiment teaches you something. Even if the result isn’t what you envisioned, the act of exploring will spark new ideas and help you grow.

I have a recent video all about what my 4-year-old has taught me about making art. You can watch it here or in the links below.

8. Allow Your Art to Evolve with You

As artists, we’re constantly growing and changing. Your art will reflect the stage of life you’re in, and that’s something to celebrate. Don’t compare your current work to what you made five or ten years ago. Instead, honor where you are today.

If you’ve created work in the past that you’re especially proud of, trust that the magic that brought that piece to life is still within you. Your new work may look different, but it will still carry your unique voice and vision.

9. Find Motivation in Community

Sometimes the best way to combat the fear of the blank canvas is to connect with others. Share your challenges with fellow artists, join a critique group, or take part in workshops. Hearing how others overcome similar struggles can inspire you and remind you that you’re not alone.

Additional Resources for Overcoming Creative Block

• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
• Art & Fear by David Bayles & Ted Orland
• Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
• Creative Block by Danielle Krysa
• Your Creative Push Podcast
• The 100 Day Project
• Creative Pep Talk Podcast by Andy J. Miller

Conclusion: Take the Leap and Start Today

If you enjoyed today’s conversation you’ll want to see the conversation that inspired it. Erika Lancaster and myself have bi-monthly conversations over on Instagram and we recently discussed facing the blank canvas. I’ve made sure to embed it on the blog and link to the chat in the description below as well.

The blank canvas doesn’t have to be a source of fear. With the right mindset and strategies, it can become an invitation to explore, learn, and grow. Now that you have the tools to get started, don’t wait. Pick up your brush, make that first mark, and trust the process. Share your progress, connect with others, and most importantly: keep creating. The world needs your art.

Remember: proudly call yourself Artist.

Together, we are Artist Strong.

 

 

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