Brushstrokes & Pixels: How Art Keeps Me Whole as a Designer

The Power of Consistent Creation

Why showing up matters more than waiting for inspiration

As designers, we’re trained to solve problems, meet deadlines, and deliver polished results. But behind the scenes, the real growth often happens in the in-between—those quiet, sometimes messy moments of simply making things.

Whether it’s sketching in a notebook, exploring an idea in Figma, or painting just for yourself, consistent creation is where our creative muscle builds strength.

I used to think that if I wasn’t working on a real client project, it didn’t “count.” But over time, I’ve learned that what we do when no one’s watching often defines the depth of our voice as creatives.

The small, unfinished pieces.The failed drafts.The ideas that lead nowhere.

They are all part of the process.

In the last few years—especially after shifting between full-time work, freelance, and running an eCommerce business—I’ve come to value one practice above all: making space for consistent creation.

It’s not about output volume—it’s about staying in motion.

How consistent creation has shaped me:

• It clarifies my taste. The more I create, the more I understand what I like—and what I don’t.

• It keeps me curious. Trying new mediums or tools outside of “work” keeps me playful and open.

• It prevents burnout. Ironically, making time for personal creation fuels my energy for client work.

• It builds confidence. Because I know I can generate ideas—even when inspiration feels low.

If you're feeling stuck, I get it.But just start.Make something today—even if it’s small, even if it’s bad.

Design is a practice.And like any practice, it rewards those who show up consistently.

Painting saved my creative rhythm.

Consistent creation doesn’t always happen in front of a screen.

One of the most transformative shifts in my creative life came when I stepped away from digital tools and picked up a paintbrush. Immersing myself in oil painting—layer by layer, color by color—taught me a different kind of patience.

It slowed me down, reminded me to look closely, and gave me a physical connection to creativity that I had forgotten in years of working behind a monitor.

Painting became my reset button.

There are no “undo” buttons in oil.Every brushstroke counts—but also invites improvisation.

That mindset seeped back into my design work—helping me:

• Trust the process more

• Loosen my grip on perfection

• Allow space for emotion and texture

Now, painting isn’t just a hobby.It’s part of how I stay grounded as a designer.

Stepping into the world of color, light, and form—without deadlines or client feedback—has expanded how I see and feel design.

It’s made me a better observer, a more intuitive problem-solver, and honestly, a happier creative.

oil on canvas, 2025