How I Stay Inspired as a Beginner Oil Painter

Embarking on the journey of becoming an oil painter is both exciting and challenging. As a beginner, there are days when the process feels exhilarating, and I can’t wait to get my brushes out, while other times, it’s easy to feel stuck or uncertain about my next steps. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is learning how to stay inspired, especially when progress feels slow or the results don’t match the vision in my head. But over time, I’ve discovered a few key strategies that help me reignite my creativity and stay motivated on this path.

Here are some of the ways I stay inspired as a beginner oil painter:

1. Looking to the Masters for Inspiration

One of my greatest sources of inspiration is studying the works of master artists like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Rembrandt. Each artist has a unique way of interpreting the world, and by exploring their styles and techniques, I not only learn new approaches but also feel reenergized in my own creative process.

When I’m feeling stuck, I’ll spend time examining the brushstrokes, use of light, or composition of a particular painting. Seeing how these legendary artists overcame their own challenges to produce iconic works reminds me that every artist goes through periods of struggle. Their persistence pushes me to continue my own journey, knowing that the process of learning and improving is a lifelong one.

2. Practicing Often, Even When It’s Hard

Since I’m not a full-time painter, finding time to practice is often a challenge. After a long day of work and taking care of household chores, I usually feel exhausted by the time I’m able to sit down with my brushes. However, what keeps me going despite the fatigue is the deep feeling inside that I have to paint. It’s as though the act of painting calls to me, even when I’m tired.

While starting can sometimes feel like a struggle, once I immerse myself in the process, all the exhaustion fades away. There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating, even when I don’t feel at my best. It’s during these times that I feel most connected to my passion for art. After a session of painting, I always feel a sense of fulfillment and happiness that makes it all worthwhile. It reminds me that even when time is limited, the joy that comes from painting is invaluable.

3. Immersing Myself in Nature (Even in Small Ways)

Because I have a full-time job and can’t paint full-time, my opportunities for long, relaxing walks in nature are limited. However, I’ve found that inspiration doesn’t always require grand landscapes or extended trips outdoors. Instead, I’ve learned to gather inspiration from my small garden at home and during my everyday routines.

While running errands, I often observe the simple beauty of daily life—whether it’s the way sunlight filters through trees, the vibrant colors of a flowerbed, or the movement of people going about their day. These small moments in nature or in my surroundings can spark new ideas for paintings. By staying present and mindful in these fleeting moments, I manage to keep my connection to nature alive, even when time is tight.

4. Experimenting with New Techniques (And Managing Perfectionism)

As someone who deals with personal life stresses and anxiety, I often struggle when my work doesn’t feel perfect. The pressure to make each painting look just right can sometimes lead to frustration, and I’ve even destroyed a canvas or two in moments of self-doubt. This need for perfection has made certain painting sessions more stressful than they should be.

However, I’m actively working towards shifting my mindset, turning painting into a form of therapy rather than another source of stress. By experimenting with new techniques—whether it’s trying a palette knife, using more texture, or exploring abstract forms—I’m learning to embrace imperfection. Letting go of the outcome allows me to enjoy the process of painting, even if it doesn’t always go as planned. Little by little, I’m working on being kinder to myself and finding peace in the act of creating, no matter the result.

5. Joining a Community of Artists (Through Instagram and Pinterest)

One of the key ways I stay inspired is by following other artists on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. These platforms are filled with a diverse range of artists, from beginners to professionals, and seeing their work constantly sparks new ideas for my own practice. I love scrolling through my feed to discover new techniques, color palettes, or themes that I may not have considered before.

Not only does it keep me inspired, but it also helps me feel connected to a larger community of artists, even though I’m working on my craft mostly on my own. Seeing other people’s creative journeys and their honest struggles with the same issues I face is a powerful reminder that we’re all in this together. It’s a source of motivation that keeps me moving forward, knowing there’s always something new to learn and experiment with.

6. Reflecting on My Progress (Even When It Feels Like a Step Back)

Progress in painting, much like in any skill, isn’t always a steady, upwards trend. While I’ve certainly improved over time, there are moments when I look at my latest work and feel like it’s not as strong as pieces I’ve created in the past. This can be frustrating, and it sometimes feels like I’m taking a step backward.

However, I’ve learned to view these moments differently. Instead of letting them discourage me, I try to focus on what might be missing in the newer pieces or what specific aspects I should work on improving moving forward. These reflections help me stay grounded and remind me that every painting, whether it feels like progress or not, is part of the learning process. By focusing on growth, rather than perfection, I’m able to stay motivated and continue evolving as an artist.

Each of these points helps me stay inspired as I continue to learn and grow as a painter. The journey of becoming an artist isn’t easy, but by finding inspiration in the little things, embracing imperfection, and staying connected to a supportive community, I’ve managed to keep the passion alive.

What inspires you as a creative person? Let’s talk about it!