Filling the Well

As creators we sometimes forget that we are also consumers of others' creative output. Indeed, we all started out as admirers of the work of our favourite artists and in aspiring to be like them we too embraced creativity as a way of life.

But all too often, when we are in the midst of an extended or otherwise demanding project, we forget to balance output with input. That is, we are so focused on finishing a work in progress that we forget to make time to take in the work of others.

This can often lead to creative burnout.

Creativity expert Julia Cameron suggests that our creative reserves are like a well that needs to be replenished by rain. To maintain the creative energy we put out, we need to restock it with the creative output of others. She calls this filling the well and it's as simple as taking an afternoon off for a gallery crawl or a movie.

Too often we forget that we draw inspiration from the work of others–not just the works that have influenced us but anything that entertains, delights or even challenges us. If you find yourself in the midst of a project that's stalling, the best thing you can do may be to simply take some time off and enjoy some art. Your output will be the better for it.