As a graphic designer, it can be hard to come up with ideas. Sometimes, you may experience a creative block or get burned out of ideas. In that case, finding inspiration can help. Life and the work of others can help open your mind to new opportunities. Take a break and use resources to help restart your creative juices. Here are my top 5 artists that I look to for inspiration:

5 Artists That Inspire Me

1 – Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo is a Mexican born artist who was married to Mexican muralist, Diego Rivera. She began painting while in recovery from a tragic bus accident, as explained by biography.com. I am inspired by Frida Kahlo’s story more than her physical artworks. The way she captures her physical and emotional pain is stunning. For example, soon after Frida’s divorce from Diego Rivera, she painted a self-portrait titled The Two Frida’s (1939). It is believed that the painting was about an imaginary friend, but actually that it depicted Frida’s loneliness caused by heartbreak.

“I paint self-portraits because I am the person I know best” 

– (FridaKahlo.org, Frida Kahlo Quotes)

The best way to be inspired is from personal experience. She suffered through many health complications and spent a lot of time in bed. Being in bed allowed her time to create a plethora of self-portraits. She became a talented and respectable artist. No matter what challenges you face, you can turn it into something beneficial.

2 – Vincent Van Gogh

If you are not already familiar with Vincent Van Gogh, you may be familiar with his painting of Starry Night (1889). This artwork, as perceived by Van Gogh Gallery, “is one of the most recognized pieces of art in the world.” During his time alive, he only sold one painting, as stated by live about. I appreciate his ability and motivation to continue his paintings despite the public viewpoint. 

“If you hear a voice within you say you cannot paint, then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced”

– (good reads, Vincent Van Gogh Quotes)

He painted what he saw rather than trying to match perfectly. He was an impressionist painter. It also was revealed that one of his paintings, Patch of Grass (1887), has an image of a woman hidden underneath as described by Live Science. This discovery inspires me to reuse canvases to create new artworks.

3 – Andy Warhol

Biography.com describes Andy Warhol as a well-known magazine and ad illustrator that helped lead the 1960s pop art movement. His specialties were screen-printing, photography, and painting. You may be familiar with his screen printing of Marilyn Monroe or his artwork of Campbell’s Soup Cans. He also branched out into other mediums of television and writing. 

“You have to do stuff that average people don’t understand because those are the only good things”

– (good reads, Andy Warhol Quotes)

Andy Warhol was an eccentric man that pushed boundaries in the art field. If you ever feel stuck in one medium, try another. There are many ways to be expressive through experimentation. It may lead you to a new interest or skill.

4 – Ban.do

Master artists do not have to be your only source of inspiration. Ban.do is an online store that sells products to support mental health and spread happiness. What draws me to them is their art style. Their website, products, and overall message are what inspire me to create. I first discovered them at a boutique. I purchased one of their water bottles and instantly fell in love with their brand when I looked them up. You can buy desk accessories, clothing items, and self-care products. Their theme is cohesive and sends out positive vibes.

If you are designing a website, it is helpful to research similar brands to understand what your audience is expecting. If you ever find yourself needing a mood lift, I suggest browsing around sites like Ban.do to inspire your next project.

5 – My Peers

You probably want to be around people who have similar interests to yours. After being on Instagram for some time, I have found other artists that have similar styles to mine that led me to a friendly community of like-minded creators. People you went to school with may have a developed art style that you may find interesting. Supporting and networking with your peers can spark new relationships and ideas. Follow whatever keeps you creative.