#18 How to overcome art block (no BS version)...

NOVEMBER CHALLENGE 🖤

Bonjour my little demon, ready to collect gem #18?

Whether you just joined or have been here from the beginning, thank you so much for reading.

TODAY’S GEM

Yesterday, I shared how I spent an entire year stuck in an art block. Today, I want to tell you how I finally broke free.

For this gem, I could tell you the BS you see everywhere: experiment with new mediums, return to the basics, focus on play and not results... But here’s the truth: I tried all of that. None of it worked.

And it's no wonder they didn't work. For most of us, art block doesn’t stem from our practice—it comes from our mindset.

Once I understood that, I made four key changes:

1. I Accepted That I’m an Artist

The hardest work was mental. I had to confront my impostor syndrome and my constant need to prove myself.

To do this, I used affirmations:

"The simple act of creating makes me an artist, no matter the outcome of my art."

I wrote this on a sticky note and forced myself to read it whenever I felt doubt creeping in. I also shared it with a friend who held me accountable, reminding me whenever I faltered.

It took time, but through repetition, I broke the limiting beliefs that were holding me back. With a healthier mindset, I was ready to take practical steps.

2. I Stopped “Productive Procrastination”

I used to delay creating by hiding behind “productive” tasks: endless character planning, scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram for references. It felt like I was working, but I wasn’t actually creating.

So, I set a hard rule: one week, one drawing. With a clear deadline, I couldn’t let perfectionism stall me anymore.

3. I Let Go of Painting

In 2024, I learned oil painting and loved it. But to overcome my art block, I needed a safe space. Painting is adventurous, experimental, and freeing—but as a beginner, it was also exhausting.

So, I stepped back to my comfort zone: drawing. If creating felt hard, I had to remove all friction. And for me, that meant simplifying.

4. I Gave My Art Meaning

I’m known for drawing Demon Girls, and I love it—but over time, I realized it wasn’t enough for me anymore. Just drawing badass characters didn’t feel fulfilling.

It took me months to admit that. But when I finally did, I asked myself: What matters to me?

Now, every piece I create has a purpose: raising awareness about the environmental crisis and animal welfare. I still draw my fantastical characters, but they now carry a message that drives me forward.

With that focus, I stopped worrying about perfection or pressure. Instead, I think about the small impact my art can have on something bigger than myself.

If you’re in an art block, start by shifting your mindset. Accept that you’re an artist, even if it feels hard. Then, find your cause. It could be anything: your love for anime, your connection to family, little moments in everyday life, your culture, food, solitude... Whatever it is, let it drive you and give your art purpose.

And just like I finally did, you’ll start to feel the momentum again.

What portrait topic would you like me to cover next?

Bisous,

Léa