As designers, or aesthetic human beings, we are constantly devouring inspo for our next big project. Majority of the time, the easiest move is usually to hop into Pinterest and see what’s trending. Yes, Pinterest is a wealth of daily inspiration, one where you can easily find yourself lost for hours (oh, only me?). But lately, I've been finding all their content is beginning to look the same - recycled versions of past posts, know what I mean? If you’re looking for some unique inspiration for your next project that will really get your creative juices flowing, to get you thinking outside your normal “box”, try these suggestions out!
Behance - Behance is an online community of both the most famous designers as well as amateur designers. This platform is used by many creatives as a digital portfolio, if you will. Whether you’re searching for a typeface for your next project or a different photography style - you’ll be sure to find something on Behance to spark that creative light! (Don’t forget to follow me on Behance @melissaraecreative)
Old Magazines - If you’re anything like me, you’ve hoarded all the magazines you’ve either collected or have been gifted from the past 10 years. Let’s take it back to basics, shall we? Pull those old magazines out, dust them off and start collaging a mood board out of good old paper! I encourage you to get messy with the materials you have on hand. Sometimes, creating a mood board offscreen and in the physical realm instead of digitally makes a world of difference in your creative flow.
Used Book Stores - I totally understand that clutter has a way of stressing people out (I am one of those people) but believe me when I say trust the process with this one. Traditionally, used books stores have a wrap of hosting piles upon piles of books that foot their stuffed shelves - but that’s all part of the allure. Think of it as a treasure hunt. I promise you - you’ll find some gold! My absolute favourite used bookstore in the city is MacLeod's Books on Pender street.
Unplug - You’re probably been told this time and time again, but unplugging from the digital world is seriously one of the best forms of medicine for creative blocks. Getting outside and into that fresh air does wonders, I swear. Whether it be going for a walk in nature, or down a busy city street, you’ll be sure to stumble upon some form of inspiration. My best ideas come to me while I’m in the shower where there is no access to technology - that must tell you something!
It’s 2022 and we ingest content daily at a god-forsaken rate without even realizing it - scrolling through social media without any agenda. The next time you’re feeling creatively drained or particularly uninspired, ditch the easy route of diving into Pinterest and give some of these suggestions a try. We’re meant to do great things as creatives, but sometimes, we all need that extra push.
