Starting out with acrylic painting is super exciting, but let’s be real—sometimes the motivation can wane a bit, right? You’ve got all the supplies, your painting space is ready, and you’re pumped that you’re finally painting!
But then, life happens, or you hit a creative block, and suddenly the brush feels a little heavier.
No worries! I’ve got some tips to keep that spark alive and help you stay motivated on your painting journey.
1. Set Small, Achievable Goals
It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re staring at a blank canvas – like, where do you even start? That’s why it’s a good idea to break it down into bite-sized chunks.
Instead of diving straight into painting a full-blown landscape, start with something small and achievable. Maybe you spend one day just experimenting with mixing colors on your palette, seeing what cool shades you can create. Or, you set a goal to paint something simple, like a single flower or a basic shape.
These small goals are like stepping stones that build your confidence little by little. Each time you accomplish one, it feels like a win, and that feeling is what keeps you motivated. Plus, it’s way less stressful to think about completing a small task than tackling a huge project.
Over time, these small successes add up, and before you know it, you’re ready to take on bigger challenges without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Create a Routine
One of the best ways to keep your motivation strong is to build a routine around your painting. Even if you’re only squeezing in 15 minutes a day, making painting a regular part of your day or week helps keep your creative juices flowing. Think of it like brushing your teeth or having your morning coffee—it becomes something you just do, no matter what.
Set aside a specific time that works for you. Maybe it’s early in the morning before the day gets busy, or perhaps it’s in the evening when you’re winding down. Whatever time you choose, stick to it as much as possible. Over time, your brain starts to recognize that this is your painting time, and it’ll be easier to get into the zone.
And here’s the bonus: the more often you paint, the more you improve, and seeing that progress is super motivating in itself!
3. Embrace the Mess
Not every painting is going to be a masterpiece, and that’s totally okay. In fact, some of the best learning experiences come from those “happy accidents” and messy experiments.
So, give yourself permission to experiment without worrying about the end result. Let the paint splatter, mix, and flow however it wants. This carefree attitude not only makes the process more fun, but it also helps you stay motivated because you’re not bogged down by the pressure to be perfect.
It’s a good reminder to those of us who lean towards striving for perfection, – to just let go sometimes! Let yourself play with the paint, mix crazy colors, and see what happens. The process is just as important as the final product, and sometimes letting go of the need for a perfect result can reignite your passion for painting.
4. Get Inspired by Others
Sometimes, when your own creativity feels a little low, it helps to see what other artists are up to. Jump online and check out platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or YouTube for a dose of inspiration.
There’s something magical about seeing what other people create—it can spark new ideas and give you that nudge to pick up your brush again. Watch a tutorial, browse through some amazing art, or even read about another artist’s journey.
Just remember, this is about getting inspired, not comparing yourself to others. Every artist is on their own unique path, and the goal here is to find that little spark that reignites your motivation. Sometimes, all it takes is seeing a color combination you love or a cool technique you want to try to get you back in the groove.
5. Switch Things Up
Feeling stuck? Maybe it’s time to try something new.
Maybe you’ve been painting the same subject matter or using the same colors for a while, and it’s starting to feel a little stale. Try painting something totally different, experiment with new techniques, paint a subject you’ve never tackled before, or even change your workspace.
A fresh perspective can do wonders for your motivation.
6. Celebrate Your Progress
Don’t forget to give yourself some credit for how far you’ve come! Take a moment to look back at some of your earlier works and compare them to what you’re creating now.
It’s easy to get caught up in what you’re still learning, but it’s super important to recognize the progress you’ve already made.
Celebrating those small wins—whether it’s mastering a new technique, finishing a piece you’re proud of, or just sticking with your painting routine—can be incredibly motivating. It reminds you that you’re growing as an artist, and that feeling of accomplishment can keep you excited to keep pushing forward.
7. Join a Community
Painting doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Joining a community of like-minded artists can provide a huge boost of motivation. Whether it’s an online group, a local painting class, or even just a couple of friends who like to paint, being part of a community gives you support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
Sharing your work with others, getting feedback, and seeing what your fellow artists are creating can be incredibly motivating. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends who share your passion. There’s something really powerful about being part of a group where everyone is cheering each other on and learning together.
8. Take Breaks When Needed
Sometimes, the best way to stay motivated is to give yourself a break. If you’re feeling burnt out or frustrated, it’s okay to step away from the canvas for a little while.
Creativity can’t always be forced, and taking a break can help you come back with fresh eyes and renewed energy.
Whether it’s taking a day off to recharge or exploring another hobby for a bit, giving yourself permission to rest can prevent burnout and keep your motivation strong in the long run. And when you do return to your painting, you’ll likely find that your creativity is flowing better than ever.
9. Keep It Fun
At the end of the day, painting should be something you enjoy. If it starts to feel like a chore, take a step back and think about how you can make it fun again.
Maybe that means painting with a friend, cranking up your favorite playlist, or even bringing some snacks into your painting space to make it feel more like a mini party.
The more fun you have while painting, the more you’ll want to keep doing it. So, keep it light, keep it playful, and remember that this is your time to relax, express yourself, and just enjoy the process of creating.
10. Remember Why You Started
Whenever you feel your motivation slipping, take a moment to remember why you started painting in the first place. Was it to express yourself, to relax, to explore your creativity, or maybe all of the above? Whatever your reason, keep that in mind and let it guide you back to your canvas.
Your art is a reflection of you, and staying connected to your “why” can help keep that creative fire burning. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind or the pressure to improve, but don’t forget the pure joy that brought you to painting in the first place.
Reconnect with that feeling, and let it fuel your motivation to keep going.
So there you have it—some easy, fun tips to help keep you motivated on your acrylic painting journey. Remember, it’s all about enjoying the process and giving yourself the space to grow and explore. Happy painting!