How to stay inspired!
Written by: Charlene Gary

We've all had those times-the lapses in our creative lives when we feel the thrill is gone. Our ambition has left us and a creative writer's block has taken over our imagination.

What to do? How do you get that thrill back? I've found myself in that funk lately and I've come up with some ideas.

For several years now I've kept notebooks of drawings, sketches and notes of pieces I've dreamt up and created. After I thought I mastered the design, I shelved it for awhile, trying another new design. When I brought it out again, I felt that same rush of excitement I did originally. I made the design, but I added something, or tried a new technique to make it a little different.

I've also subscribed to several jewelry magazines over the years. I find inspiration in some of the designs they feature. I don't copy the ideas, as that can lead to some legal problems, but it would lead me to another idea of my own. The Sunday paper ads, and jewelry catalogs where I buy supplies, have been helpful for some inspiration.

My mistakes have been the catapult to try something new. What idea I had set in my mind, morphed into something else. My original frustration at my piece not working out as I had hoped, turned into what I call a "happy accident"

I have also entered into several contests lately. These are a great source of inspiration to me. I remember as a child entering creative contests. I was always thrilled to try my best, just to see if I could win. I was successful, a few times, and the thrill of being successful again has me just as thrilled. You can do a web search for 'jewelry contests' to see what's out there. There are several at different times of year, so keep checking. Set a goal to enter a specific number of contests per year, and don't pressure yourself to win, or to spend more time or money on the project than you can afford. Enter for fun and for the thrill of saying you entered.

If you have children, ask for their input on a project. Children's imaginations are wide open and they don't feel confined to traditional standards when it comes to design. They'll be very proud to say they helped!

Get out into nature with a digital camera or pencil & drawing pad. We spend way too much time indoors as it is breathing re-circulated air. This technique has many benefits-fresh air, exercise, and inspiration!

Good luck in your new endeavors!

I've been a creative soul all my life. I've recently started looking at things sideways and found it to be a very unique point of view. It's helped me to try different things, and create new things I didn't think were possible. I enjoy working at my bench at home and showing my pieces at a local artists' shop. You can visit my blog at www.cleverminerva.blogspot.com