Don’t Look Before You Create: Liberating Your Creative Process
Do you ever find yourself scrolling through endless streams of others' work, searching for that elusive spark of inspiration? But then you realise something that many creatives grapple with, and that is - that everything worth creating has already been done, leaving you feeling inadequate and directionless. This cycle of comparison and self-doubt can be paralyzing, leading to a creative output that feels derivative and uninspired.
For years, this was my reality—a constant barrage of self-criticism and second-guessing that left me feeling creatively bankrupt. The fear of not measuring up, coupled with the pressure to produce something original, was suffocating. It seemed like every idea I had was just a recycled version of something I'd seen before, devoid of any real authenticity or personal connection.
But then, one day, just like that, everything changed. I stumbled upon a simple yet profound piece of advice that revolutionized my approach to creation: "Don't look before you create." It sounds almost too easy, but the truth is, once you've seen something, you can't unsee it. By intentionally avoiding outside influences during the creative process, I was able to tap into a deeper, more authentic space within myself.
Always remember: the most powerful stories are the ones that come from your heart
Instead of seeking validation or inspiration from external sources, I began to trust my own instincts and experiences. I allowed myself to explore ideas and themes that resonated with me on a personal level, rather than trying to emulate what I thought others would like or approve of. This shift in perspective not only liberated me from the constraints of comparison but also allowed me to create from a place of genuine passion and authenticity.
One project where I fully embraced this new approach was my Reminiscent Africa collection. Drawing on my own childhood memories and experiences, I delved into themes of nostalgia and cultural identity. From the vibrant colors of traditional Zulu beadwork to the graceful movements of African wildlife, each piece in the collection spoke to a deeply personal connection to my roots and heritage.
By staying true to my own story and vision, I was able to create work that felt truly authentic and meaningful. I’m finding that people connect with the sincerity and depth of emotion infused into each piece, and I am finding a renewed sense of confidence and purpose in my work.
Overcoming creative stagnation requires a willingness to silence the noise of external influences and trust in the power of your own voice. By embracing authenticity and tapping into your unique experiences and perspectives, you can break free from the cycle of comparison and self-doubt and create work that is truly meaningful and impactful. So the next time you feel stuck or uninspired, remember: the most powerful stories are the ones that come from your heart.
Drawing from my own past and focusing on cherished childhood memories in South Africa, I delved into numerous references encompassing African culture and lifestyle. This journey culminated in many projects, my most recent being "Reminiscent Africa." I created a comprehensive list of 365 African Drawing Prompts that I'm excited to share with you. My intention is that these references serve as a guiding inspiration, encouraging you to depict your own interpretation of this vibrant culture, rather than relying solely on others' more recent interpretations of Africa. Let this list spark your creativity to craft original works that reflect your unique perspective and artistic voice, rather than imitating the designs of others.