James Joyce created Zephyer to help give artists a healthy creative process that nurtures their growth and artistic journey. He aims to create a new educational framework designed to help artists discover the best ways to learn to draw. James uses traditional tools along with his Wacom Cintiq 16 and Wacom Intuos Pro to improve and create his designs. Follow him on YouTube, Instagram, or Tik Tok.
In this video and guest post, Joyce shares his perspective on a common problem many artists face: getting really excited about a new project, then ditching it to start working on another project they’re really excited about. If this happens too often, an artist can have a huge folder of “works in progress,” and almost nothing completed.
Watch the video below, or read on, for Joyce’s perspective on why this happens, and his advice for how to get past it.
Today, we’re going to talk about the real reason you’re not better at art — and it’s got nothing to do with how much you apply yourself. It’s about how you never finish anything because you’re always excited about the next thing you want to do. I had the same problem, but I found some amazing tools to help out. Now I can finish my projects and art pieces, and improve my art. You can too.
Cravings
The aroma of fresh chocolate chip cookies, or the excitement of a new cyberpunk world, can trigger a craving that’s hard to resist. Artists, too, feel that surge of excitement when inspiration strikes, driving them to create. But what happens when that excitement leads to a never-ending cycle of unfinished projects?
Join me on this adventure as we explore the journey through cravings, the impact on creative endeavors, and how to break free from the cycle of perpetual sketches.
A tempting tale
Remember the anticipation for Cyberpunk 2077? I was all in, planning a grand launch event. But amidst the excitement, the game’s flawed release was a wake-up call. It made me realize how cravings can lead us astray, causing us to veer off our intended paths.
Similarly, my ambitious art project around the manga Bleach suffered from my craving for the next big idea. I outlined an extensive art book with 50 pages, only to hit a roadblock when the initial enthusiasm faded.
Understanding the mind’s role
Our brains, designed to handle stimuli, can also trick us into chasing the next high. Like craving a new game while playing another, our brains lure us away from completing ongoing projects. It’s like an endless loop of unfulfilled promises to ourselves.
This behavior turned me into a perpetual sketcher, someone who never finishes anything, including the chance to improve. If you can relate, know that you’re not alone in this struggle.
The path to resolution
To break this cycle, let’s turn to a four-step self-treatment method used for OCD. It starts with relabeling — identifying the urge as an impulse rather than a necessity. Then, reattributing the urge to the brain’s mechanisms, not to a personal flaw. Refocus by allowing time for the craving to subside, and revalue the impact of succumbing to the urge.
Finally, recreate your choices. Instead of giving in to every new idea or craving, choose what truly aligns with your values and aspirations. It’s about finishing what you start, one project at a time, and celebrating those victories.
Embracing a healthier creative process
With this newfound approach, I’ve recommitted to my Bleach project. Each step forward is a step away from the perpetual loop and towards completion. Let’s support each other in the comments, fostering a community that encourages overcoming impulse control issues and embracing the journey of artistic growth.
Remember, our cravings don’t define us; our choices do. Here’s to a happy and healthy creative journey!
