Setting Creative Intentions for the New Year

The beginning of a new year is a wonderful time to set intentions for your art practice. Rather than focusing solely on goals, think about intentions—ways to keep your art enjoyable, meaningful, and fulfilling. Here’s a guide to setting creative intentions for the year ahead that inspire growth without pressure.

1. Choose an Artistic Theme or Focus

Consider a theme that excites you, whether it’s exploring a new colour palette, focusing on a certain subject, or experimenting with new techniques. A theme can add direction to your work without limiting your creativity.

Penny’s Theme Tip: Keep it broad so it leaves room for exploration, like “expressive colour” or “capturing movement.” This way, your theme guides you while keeping things open-ended.

2. Set an Intention to Play and Experiment

One of the best ways to grow as an artist is by keeping a sense of play. Set an intention to experiment with techniques, mediums, or styles. Let curiosity, rather than perfection, be your guide.

Penny’s Playful Tip: Dedicate one session a week purely to experimentation—no rules, no goals. Let your creative side wander freely.

3. Focus on Consistency Over Perfection

Instead of aiming for perfect results every time, focus on maintaining a consistent practice. Even short, regular painting sessions can help you build skill, develop ideas, and keep your creativity flowing.

Penny’s Practice Tip: Start with just 15 minutes a few times a week. Gradually, you’ll find it easier to fit creativity into your routine.

4. Embrace New Challenges to Stretch Yourself

Setting a few challenges, like participating in an art show, trying a different subject, or even selling your work, can add excitement and motivation. Choose challenges that inspire you to grow, and enjoy the process.

Penny’s Challenge Tip: Pick one or two challenges that you genuinely want to try—not because you “should” but because they excite you.

5. Commit to Finding Inspiration Everywhere

Find inspiration in your everyday surroundings—whether it’s nature, architecture, or daily interactions. Make a habit of noting down or sketching ideas when they strike.

Penny’s Inspiration Tip: Keep a small sketchbook or notes app handy to capture moments of inspiration wherever you go. You’ll be amazed by how much material you gather over the year!

Final Thoughts

Setting creative intentions is a way to keep your art meaningful, playful, and fulfilling. By focusing on growth, consistency, and inspiration, you can make this year a vibrant and enjoyable chapter in your artistic journey. Here’s to a creative and joyful year ahead!

Until next time, Keep splashing colours!
Penny 😊🎨✨