7 Useful Tips for Becoming a Better Artist

An artist's daily life can take on many forms. Some artists may work for a bigger entity, or they can work solo and take on commissions for their living. An artist's life can involve going with the flow and adjusting things as they go. Conversely, other artists thrive with routine and structure. Learn seven tips for becoming a better artist with time, no matter how you navigate your artistic path.

1. Get To Bed Early

It's not uncommon to meet artists who consider themselves to be night owls — getting up at the crack of dawn to get things done is not everyone's cup of tea. A good night's sleep, however, is crucial to anyone's success, regardless of their lifestyle or occupation. Put down your smartphone and have some chamomile tea and a banana before bed to bring your body into relaxation mode.

2. Set Goals for Yourself

Are there any specific goals you'd like to accomplish with art? A schedule can help with that. For example, a goal of yours might be to paint one painting per week. Set time aside each day to work on your painting, whether it's 10 minutes per day or a couple of hours. Consistency is key, and a few minutes of art per day can make all the difference.

3. Declutter Your Space

Many artists say with confidence that there's no such thing as a spotless room for their lifestyle. However, paint everywhere, colored pencils, papers, and more can collect over time and create piles of clutter that may distract you from getting your work done. A space with minimal clutter can help you achieve clarity and a clear headspace for crafting your next big masterpiece.

4. Share Your Art

Art can be a deeply personal experience, and it's OK to save some of your works for yourself. However, if your goal is to get your art out there, there's only one way to do it: share it! Exhibit your work at an art show. Tell your friends and family about your art. Share it on social media — be sure to include proper hashtags for best traction. You never know who will want to see your work, so take the leap and show it off to the world.

5. Collaborate With Others

One sure way to better your artistry is to collaborate with other artists. Introverted artists may balk at the idea of networking and it's an understandable reaction; the concept of speaking with strangers about business matters is daunting. Don't let this scare you from making fantastic art with others, though. Many artists could be in the same boat as you, so don't be afraid to make that first move.

6. Eat 3 Meals a Day

Creative types often have the desire to just create all day and ignore everything else, including eating food. Breaks are essential to everybody's routine; working for hours on end with no food can have detrimental effects in the long run. Slow down and take time to get food in your system, ideally three meals a day. Take care of your body and nourish it because a happy body equals a happy artist and a happy life.

7. Look for Inspiration Everywhere You Go

Pears at the grocery store can be the basis of a new song. That jerk who cut you off on the highway could be the foundation of your next drawing. Writer's block is real, though, and it doesn't just apply to writers! When you're feeling stuck or uninspired, just look around, even if you're just in your room. A walk through nature provides many starting points for any creative endeavor, too, so strap on your walking shoes and get to observing.

Art is as entertaining as it is enriching, and to create art is a wonderful experience, no matter your experience level. Keep any of these tips in mind when you feel stuck in your creative endeavors.