I often hear people say they struggle with getting ideas for a painting. So I wanted to share a very effective process I teach people I mentor. It helps them find ideas and express who they are.

This whole process starts with writing.

Grab a small notebook, find a peaceful place, and ask yourself what issues are important for you in this period of your life. These issues may relate to your inner world or the world outside (the culture you live in, nature, science …). Something you have strong feelings about.

Write down everything that comes into your mind. Have a brainstorm with yourself on paper. You might want to write down sentences or words, whatever suits you.

When you feel this process slows down – stop, and choose one issue you want to work on now.

Think of your chosen issue and write down all the images that first come into your mind when you think of it. If you see any details (color, light, or shape) write down these, too.

Look at what you’ve written, and make a few small sketches. Draw these images fast. Try to be playful while you are doing it. You might want to juggle the shapes, colors, sizes, and where they appear. Maybe you want to use some geometrical shapes …

Be mindful of the composition and emphasize what you want to communicate. Then, choose one of the sketches you like best, decide which colors will best communicate your issue, and start to paint!

Using this process, people I mentor sometimes discover issues and visual concepts they want to work on long-term. Hope this helps you, too.