I have a bit of a creative problem. It goes like this….
I love making mini mogs, and people seem to like buying them, but I don’t want to be a one-trick pony.
I have been trying to design something new recently. But it hasn’t been going too well.
My first thought was to do a dog, for all the dog people (as opposed to cat people).
But I just can’t seem to get the design right, for that or anything else – and I think I’ve worked out why.
As you may know if you follow me, I am a huge fan of Pinterest.
I particularly enjoy logging on over breakfast to scroll through my feed, checking out the parade of prettiness that all those lovely folks I follow have thoughtfully provided for my entertainment.
But unfortunately, much as I love it, I find Pinterest is becoming my creative poison…
As well as the time I waste actually looking at it, instead of getting inspired, I seem to be ending up so paranoid about producing something resembling other makers’ work that I end up with creative block.
The trouble is, once you’ve seen something, you can’t unsee it.
And whilst everyone has influences, it’s not helpful to keep catching sight of your own whilst simultaneously trying to design something original.
I think I may have to temporarily curb my Pinterest addiction for a while, and see what comes out the other end…
Once I’m no longer under the influence. ♥
The Pinterest influence must be a huge universal problem now a days. Such endless inspiration. But I’m reckoning that even if your ideas are sparked there, you will put your own original spin on it.
I find it a valuable resource, but like you, find it all too easy to spend hours chasing rabbits down holes instead of focussing. Have conviction: your ideas are fun, charming and commercially viable, so believe in them. Use Pinterest to put you in the mood, and then keep it Modflowers.
I agree! I don’t look so much these days, but it’s so easy to have a seed of an idea and then go straight there to feed it. Dangerous. I often wonder how I would have taught my art college students if they’d had Pinterest. (I’m sounding very old now!) It’s a double edged sword. Useful, inspiring, fun…..but it can also sap creativity and knock your confidence in your own ideas. Modflowers – be confident in your own distinct style!
I know what you mean. Sometimes I just need to unplug completely for a while and come back to myself….it’s amazing how much things have changed in just the last few years – I’m sure all we are going to see in the future are retreats advertising “no internet service here” so we can properly unwind for a bit!!