dealing with art block ⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅*̩̩͙‧͙ december studio vlog

the first 50 subscriber to use this link (or the code LEIGH) will receive 40% off their purchase from Pela. After that it will be a 25% discount! ☺︎ cutt.ly/7MOuiRM ♥︎
⁕ find me on patreon if u dare / leighellexson
⁕ camera: Sony a6400 w/ a 35mm lens for those soft background and a kit lens for wider shots
featuring music from Louie Zong ☘︎
louiezong.band...
& epidemic sound

[@Blick_Art]

We want to say how great it is that you support fellow artists in your community! Non-artists don't always get how important that validation is when someone chooses to own an artist's work- the $ is nice, but the significance of someone choosing to live around your work provides a different kind of sustenance. Never think artists don't appreciate those small purchases of a print or card- that's a very big deal to the individual who made it! We also love that this video confronts the reality of creative block, because there are times for every artist when it seems the well is dry. Thanks for sharing some of the ways you find renewed motivation and ideas!

[@hannahwalker7089]

I love watching your vlogs while I work on my own business. I create sensory play kits and other open-ended toys for kids, which I love. But cutting and applying labels gets so repetitive, glad to have your videos for company!

[@DrFjords]

The third digital piece with the vase and tiny puppy is just *chef’s kiss*

[@nematarot]

Here are some totally unsolicited suggestions I hope they’re helpful and not annoying: set aside as many pieces as you can when you’re producing lots of good work and keep them secret. Then when you need something for patreon rewards during difficult months you have a little stash of good pieces. Buy more art from the artists you admire, it helps me to remember why I make art in the first place (I have your blue toad painting and every time I see it I gain life points,) attempt to force yourself to study some totally different subject matter than you normally do, and just make some more free time for not making art. I appreciate all your videos and the look into your studio and process!

[@Janartable]

Every artist will tell you…..just start. Sit down at your art table, or stand at your easel, or go outside with your sketchbook…whatever your thing is. Pick up your medium, and just create. Oh look….you’re there! Never mind the product….just let it flow!

[@taralynnb]

I think making a sticker of what your paint palette looks like after a colorful painting would be cool. Like draw a palette, and just throw the colors on it all messy and fun like your pallette looks when you're all done!

[@alinatr2693]

A magnet like that would be so cool too!!

[@mackenziephoenix3687]

Today I started a crochet project for myself, since I've been mostly doing commissions recently! Making a mohair shrug!!! ❤️❤️

[@larafaith84]

What helps me when I have art block is doing neurographic art. It is a form of abstract art in that you just let yourself just not think... let your pen move the way it will and just draw. It's a form of art therapy, and I love it. It's so versatile. I get really bad seasonal depression in winter, and having art block during it doesn't help. It can be overwhelming, but you can get through it. "Just draw through it." Happy New Year!!

[@NikNakz]

I was cleaning my table while watching this video and I have been dealing with a nasty art block for months now. It's just so hard to stay consistent with a style or a type of medium especially when your "brand" depends on it 🥹 ugh, maybe I'm just complicating things. Just like what you said, we don't know what we're doing 🤷🏻‍♀️ so I'll just go with the flow and try different things.

[@Refugeiowacity]

Art block for me comes when I develop a fear of making bad art or trying to maximize the most out of my art. I'll say out loud to myself as I'm painting that "its okay if this is bad or is unusable the whole point is to enjoy the process and enjoy being creative". Thanks for keeping me company while I brainstormed cheesy valentines day cards.

[@PHcute]

I was doing my post-lunch squatting while watching coz my digestion sux! 👍🏻

[@idaselimann3946]

that puppy piece is so cute though!🌟

[@laurasmith4137]

Thanks so much for sharing your process. I appreciate the inspiration I get watching your videos as I try to switch gears back into a creative mindset after a rough year. You kept me company as I was winding yarn for my part-time job with a Cincinnati indie yarn dyer. Happy 2023!

[@WhatIfItWasPurple]

I finished up switching from my 2022 bujo to my 2023 bujo, and did some end-of-year logging!

[@daliamartinez1565]

was drawing randomly generated pokemon with pens! funny how my least favorite ones that were generated ended up being the cutest/most fun ones to draw. love you leigh!

[@littletinyegg]

Changing mediums always helps me. If not a block just like figuring out what isn’t satisfying me about what I’m making! Loved this vid XOXO

[@fuzzydragons]

beanies always slide off my head or dont fit at all and i love the look of them. you got some really nice things t the market. i think the ceramics that annie russel did are ceramic stoneware, but im not 100% sure been awhile since i've done anything with clay

[@alinatr2693]

I feel the same way rn,it really helps me to go trough pinterest,instagram and swatch my favorite art supplies and make a really simple painting or sketch,with my favorite colors

[@FallenStarArt]

I really enjoy getting my own work done for my little online shop or commissions It's just super comfy vibes and I feel like I'm able to get more than drawing done when listening and watching

[@nikkismindd]

thanks for keeping me company while i ate lunch in an empty office today :))

[@aprilenelly5517]

I was sketching in a new smol sketchbook i got while watching this!!!!

[@laurenadams6245]

I'm setting up my 2023 planner while vibing to this vlog! Looking forward to the simple happy moments that I'm sure 2023 will bring!

[@goghfurther]

Thank you for the art block talk! It definitely changed my perspective on how to approach mine. I was working on adding a zipper to a bag I’ve repurposed to be a purse that will hold all my journaling stuff that gets lost in my backpack :). Hope you had a great holiday!

[@jenn3763]

I love watching and listening to your videos when I sketch or do some chores around the house. I was doing dishes and cooking dinner while I listened to you this time. 😊🎊 Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

[@pepiart1413]

Listening to you talk about art block whilst forcing myself to draw cause I am in your boat! X

[@samawhidden]

Love you! I’m swatching new watercolors that my momma .. ahem.. “Santa” gave me for Christmas. ❤ I love the vibe of your vid’s in the background when I’m in my studio, thank you for your content 😊 merry everything!

[@kmmk292929]

WANT that secretlunch plate, so CUTE, and the BLUE IS PRETTY!!!!!!!!

[@gooze_design]

thank you for talking about your artist block!!! it is so hard to get around. i love putting on your videos while doing my own sketching or painting. it's nice company for an introvert artist.

[@toaf3402]

that greyish green jacket you’re wearing in the intro is so amazing omg :O

[@apple.cheeks]

That was the juiciest small biz haul!

[@Tinymutation]

You talking about art block makes me feel so much better for having a slow december with my own creativity ❤

[@cassie1728]

I feel like as artists we always tear ourselves apart soooo brutally, maybe so that it doesn't sting as much if someone else does. Your videos help me so much with dealing with my own blocks and the negative talk that I do to myself. I get in these moods too and it suckssssss! I just want to say from one artist to another you are amazing, your work is beautiful and you make my heart smile. 🥰

[@TheGardenStorm]

I was making little carrot plush keychains for my shop Bunimead. One thing I will be working on this year is making sure I don't burn myself out, even if it means I'm a little less productive than I'd like to be. I oftentimes overload myself with tasks which isn't very good for my creative process. Thanks Leigh for another great video!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

aw i love annie's work!!! so cool to see you highlight her work 💜

[@Whitelily63]

Love how real you are in this vid! I’m doing a puzzle while watching 💞

[@ani845]

I’m so happy you’ve made a video talking about your art block. I struggle a lot with it to and to see one of my favorite artists talk about it makes me feel better about it.

[@jessiebeilharz1799]

I was crocheting while watching this. Well, sewing crochet pieces together. I'm making a soccer ball ⚽.

[@Caro.Arevalo]

Watching these vlog while on an artist funk myself, thank you for the sweet vlog leigh 🫶🏽🪐🌝

[@johii03]

It’s about artblock, but there’s more art in it than the previous videos. I love it. The theme and the vibe are so accurat, thank you ❤

[@AngeliquesCreative]

I loved your puppy drawing. 🐶💖💖It was adorable with the flowers. Your video helped me work on some art warm ups.

[@C7557]

I love the puppy. Keep on keeping on. Thanks for sharing.

[@lunakrause984]

thank you leigh!! it's calming hearing you talk about art block. sometimes i feel i LIVE in the art block zone haha, so it helps when you share your thoughts :) still, i find and will always find your pieces, beautiful 🌷😛 xoxo

[@emilywaters6773]

I'm buildlind the lego succulent set while watching this lovely piece of media :)

[@roseannedavis9299]

Playing around with new skin tone color pencils from crayola and master touch

[@emmettowl]

Such chill and relatable vibes. You kept me company while I ate breakfast and set up my desk for work.

[@jabajabajabaa]

I really enjoyed this lil vlog, especially your perspective on art block! As a graphic designer I always give myself a hard time when im not in love with the work that im doing and hearing your thoughts really resonated with me! I hope you have a warm welcome to the new year!

[@mosslou9854]

it always feels kinda powerful to me when i make something i dont 100% love but still push through making it, even more so when i feel blocked ^^ its a little spiteful being in my brain like "hah, i made things in spite of you!!"

[@carmencordero3347]

I started crocheting a new top after not crocheting for a year :)

[@BStephensonn]

Long time lurker here, and I just wanted to say that I love the artwork that you're creating lately. I'm not here to try to validate your work because I totally get it! As a creative business owner myself, I totally get that you're the only one who will choose to be happy with your work above anyone else, you'll always be the most critical regardless of who shares their love for what you do. You're not alone in this art block, keep plugging away (or don't!) haha truly just move through the motions and keep on crafting. I honestly believe that as a creative you'll dislike more work than you love, but when you truly love something it hits right haha. We're also in a society that is based on mass production, and I think that says a lot. If you make three damn good pieces this upcoming year, that you truly feel passionate about - that's incredible! Your talent will always outweigh and exceed these mental blocks. You're talented and resilient in this creative community, and that to me is so much greater than creating hundreds of mediocre pieces a month just because you feel that you have to. Have a wonderful festive season and a start to 2023.

[@xXNekou]

As a tattoo artist I completely understand, I cannot afford an art block, just can't have it, because I have deadlines and clients that are booked in and expect me to deliver. So yeah, sometimes it's tough, but we just gotta push through. Happy new year Leigh! :)

[@flowers_and_ann]

Your videos are so healing and motivating to me! Talking about the processes, about your everyday life and being so honest about your feelings helps me in such a deep way! And I love your art 💕

[@CosmicKaori]

I was making stickers, playing a game and deciding on dinner all at the same time while watching this. I always look forward to these studio vlogs

[@jasminescorse-chen6657]

I did a composition/format thumbnail exercise. my current art block has led me to go back to learning and practice till I get excited to use what i've learned to make more art!

[@jessiebeilharz1799]

That puppy oil pastel is so cute 😍 I love it!

[@ashyapeachie]

i was crocheting while watching 🌸 been going through an art block as well but your content has always been inspiring for me 🫶

[@jessworrall9854]

Experiencing a bit of art block myself so I just painted a little in my sketchbook. Nothing great... but at least I'm creating! Thanks for your encouraging words on the subject :)

[@__ink__]

😊 right on the nose on the topic of art block last month or so. When some of my clients come up with (weird/ out of my zone) requests and I just have to draw/ paint a piece for them, that usually gets me out of a rut (in my case; contemporary tattoo illustration or commission art). For those without the client deadlines: ask a friend or family member to give you an assignment and do it even if you don’t really want to, it will make you pick up art again and probably make your support buddies happy too 😊❤ Thanks for the chill 🐢vids Leigh and enjoy 2023 everyone 💫

[@INeverMetaphorIDidntLike]

i would buy all the prints, stickers, postcards, anything and everything of those little pink, green, tanny brown houses!! SO so so so so so cute

[@MinaBolducArt]

Thank you for keeping me company tonight, I'm editing photos for my first ever shop launch! I'm a little bit nervous but way more excited. Here's to a good new year!

[@amandamakesminis]

Thanks for a great year of videos Leigh! Loved the topic today - as I often have art block. I usually try to just be kind to myself and take it as a sign that my brain needs a rest. Can't be creative 24/7, gotta have breaks! Hope you have a Happy New Year!

[@lorijohnson773]

I made art while watching your video. I painted a German Shepard as a gift for someone. Thanks for all the time you take to make these videos. I really appreciate it.

[@captainlemonn]

Eating soup and watching Leigh is a great combination ☺️

[@StalxD]

the dog paint u did looks sick :) those sibylline stickers are cool

[@hopeevans9225]

Always love to see your daily life! I was knitting while watching your studio vlog. Have a lovely end of 2022 thanks for being such an inspiration!!! 😗

[@greyshell3960]

Currently packing my bags for a trip to Liverpool to spend New Years there with friends 🥳

[@yasaisister]

Wishing you a great and productive 2023! Also hi from a long time listener, first time commenter. I also have some seasonal (and regular) depression but taking time for myself has helped. I used to be big into embroidery and took on a big project for the holidays which helped but I hadn’t done it in years so felt like a baby deer walking for the first time and struggled remembering how to do certain stitches. But I finished it and felt good even though it wasn’t perfect and my mom loved her embroidery gift. Also the dog piece reminds me of my Lisa Frank days when I was a young child and had the Dalmatian folder so it’s nostalgic for me and I love the colors!

[@bymorganco]

your vlogs are always rly relatable but especially today bc this season has been shit for me mentally, artistically, and everything in between. thanks for being real and transparent because it makes me feel like i’m not alone in this weird world we live in~

[@aislynngarrett1694]

Hey Leigh!! I watched this video while doing my nighttime skincare and today I got the stickers I ordered from you in the mail!! Hope you’re well xoxo

[@RadhiaRahman]

started my morning with this vlog 💓so glad I got to see you in person this year mwah mwah xoxo

[@LeighEllexson]

hi radish, big love

[@elaeria]

Loved hearing your perspectives on art block and managing emotions through it. I was crocheting a donut while I watched your vid. Happy New Year!!!

[@oonagi5051]

happy new year Leigh !! i was making clay things for my shop which is opening soon !!

[@debschieve3468]

Hi Leigh, I'm hand stitching a needle book while watching your video. I love your art, really love what you did with the digital art threesome. Also really love all the animals that you paint. Animals are my thing. I also struggle with SAD because I hate winter, hate being cold, not being outside riding my bike, etc. Thanks for your wonderful videos and inspiration for art making.

[@noozart9911]

[@clarestaoctavia]

first studio vlog i watched in 2023 but hello 😄i too have been struggling with art block since november, and so far i'm trying to not be too hard on myself about it. i'm the type to "i'd rather not do it than to produce half-hearted creation because i don't want the end result to look bad," but now i'm omw to overcoming that by returning to art journaling and making abstract art. and for your question, i'm actually finishing my recent art journal spread. thank you for making this vlog, totally relatable theme but wrapped in a cozy, comfy vibe. happily subbed! :D

[@nicoleblair3520]

Merry Holidaymas and Happy New Year Leigh!

[@FelicityandInk]

This video has inspired me to pick up my sketchbook and just randomly create something, for the first time in a long time! SO thank you 😌

[@signedbysky3243]

Leigh your videos are always so calming and smooth (not sure if that makes sense), and I always get hyped when I see a new video go up! While we hung out, I drew messy doodles in my sketchbook!

[@ropingmydream]

I drank my morning coffee. Perfect way to start the day with one of your vlogs ☺️

[@laurenimhof2602]

currently starting on a new's years resolution by cleaning my room and setting up a clothes rack to try and keep my winter jackets tidy :) Your vids always help get me into a productive mindset

[@wonderwonder30]

Love, love and love the Patreon rewards sticker! Oh, your keyboard is luscious ♥️

[@LeighEllexson]

thank you tee hee I am loving the keyboard!!!

[@ChantelleArts]

I loved the art you created, but its really good to hear you talking about art block so openly ❤

[@shawnajeree]

I'm still crocheting Christmas gifts (for some friends I don't usually see until after Christmas)...I love how chill your videos are and it was great seeing your process of working through art block.

[@aimeecreative]

Great practices to get out of block. I will say the digital still life with the tiny puppy is my fave ! ❤ Sorry you’re experiencing seasonal depression, it’s no fun! I lost both my uncles on my moms side this year and the holiday time wasn’t the best and frankly I’m ready for the new year and a fresh start 🎉 you’re amazing and I know you can push through!

[@eristwigs]

Love love this video so much!! I love how you tackled your art block, and I love how honest you are with your thoughts and how you see your art. It’s truly amazing to see your journey throughout the years. Wishing you a happy new year!!! Watching this at around 1pm, still in bed, delaying getting up and delaying chores 😂

[@leoniejonk]

I'm so glad you made this vlog because this (together with Sara tapes latest video) made me feel so incredibly validated. I've been struggling lately with this feeling of just not vibing with my own art and it isn't until I saw two artists I greatly look up to struggling with the same thing that I remembered that this is all part of the process. Sometimes our eyes & heads grow faster than our hands can keep up with, you know? Can't wait for the next vlog and thanks for being so open

[@leeforshort04]

I worked on my bullet journal for January while watching this video, your videos are always so inspiring for my creative process no matter what exactly I'm doing. Happy new year!!

[@redandpink219]

I'm new to your channel, and have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed watching you make your art! I love your landscapes in particular! I'd actually like to see more of the reference pic you use when painting your landscapes so I see how you are picking your colours and shapes in the composition process. Thanks so much for the delightful visuals you bring to youtube with your art.

[@cloversbooknook_]

Thanks for the hangs while i work on painting some wood slices ✌🏼 love your vids, happy new year!!

[@nicolepalermo2050]

Absolutely amazing, inspiring, BEAUTIFUL, genuine and so talented.. I love watching your video's, life and creation of art.... I am in the nesting mode right now.. before I start creating again, and you truly have helped me so much in the process. I just love your natural style, personally and in your art. Simply breathtaking but what I love so much is how simplistic... everything you do just draws me in.. I know how much work and all of the ups and downs, it is so refreshing to know that other artist's feel the same feelings, and experience the same things. We are so hard on ourselves, our minds take over or create that stinkin thinkin I always say lol.. like a little battle at times.. I love that you constantly say drink water! Like nourish your mind body and soul.. I have been an artist for 32 years makeup artist, painter, photography and jewelry.... getting back into painting after taking years off to focus on other things.. watching your videos I find so calming... one of your followers said, do you like Leigh's video before you even get through it. The answer is yes! So happy I found you.. thank you for sharing your life...and ART.

[@AshleyAwe]

Can so relate to all that you are sharing about art bloc. I have this other thought to share with you. Might consideration be given to the "art bloc' dance? YES! sometimes I have felt art bloc when I am not moving enough. I am not projecting that on to you. I am instead sharing that dancing can be so fun and somewhat goofy if you are dancing WITH art bloc or doing the art bloc dance. 2 cents.

[@lttlknn]

I am currently working through my art block by drawing fish every day. Drew a really cool one while listening to you talk about giving yourself grace and staying kind to yourself. Thank you for that!

[@PotchouDoodle]

Thank to you for providing so many great and relatable contents here in 2022. I wish you all the best for 2023 and I'll be happy to spend some of my breakfast in your company 🥰

[@notsoartsylott5114]

I really liked this video's topics! I go through artblock a lot and I always find it difficult when I compare myself to other artist that seem to be productive at all times! I hope you have a wonderful end of the year and a happy begining of 2023! (btw you kept me company while I was working on some dnd commissions :3)

[@madylynepagonis6527]

I was painting while watching this :)

[@chloecureton9223]

The seasonal depression ft art block has reaaaaaaally been apparent to me. Not only in that respect but notably there. I pushed myself to start a new sketchbook that was experimental, I think that helped kinda. I’ve also had like three illnesses in December, so I’ve been kinda low energy. I was literally going to ask what you did for holiday season. Do you and your housemates get gifts for each other? I can imagine you and James have gifted some corkers 😂 yeah, maybe. See ya next year xoxo

[@Justthisrode]

I feel so special watching this

[@amandatyler6050]

I was sewing 🪡 while watching this video. I’ve been experiencing block lately as well so this video was definitely relatable. ✨

[@vickie_sha]

Wish you a great 2023! Thank you for being such a great inspiration!

[@csengegulyas4086]

I have’nt drawn or made anything in so long due to exam season, but today i sat down to embroider while i watched this video ❤

[@sonicakagemiya]

setting up my 2023 journal while watching!!! happy new year leigh