Every artist faces setbacks that bring work to a standstill.
The causes are different for each of us but all of us will experience at least one of these obstacles.
1.
The 'aftershock' of your first success.
Your first solo exhibition leaves you with the anticlimax of its success.
You fear you'll never be able to repeat that success.
It was just a fluke.
Nothing could be further from your thoughts than getting back to the easel.
2.
Relationship drama.
You've just met 'The One' or your heart is breaking over a lost love.
Your mind is fully occupied with images of the beloved one.
Nothing could be further from your thoughts than getting back to the easel.
3.
Financial difficulties.
You've lost your 'day job' and now you struggle to pay the bills.
You need to spend all your time finding a new job.
Nothing could be further from your thoughts than getting back to the easel.
4.
Deadline pressure.
You're short of the number of paintings you promised for your upcoming show.
You worry the gallery will dump you but you're out of ideas for new work.
Nothing could be further from your thoughts than getting back to the easel.
5.
Inclement weather.
( Don't laugh! This is serious for oil painters.
) You're desperate to get some canvases varnished for your upcoming show.
Nothing could be further from your thoughts than getting back to the easel.

• What's the solution?

I suggest a simple-sounding but powerful mantra that's guaranteed to keep your art fresh in your mind until you're back at the easel.
Gertrude Stein wrote the original version: 'a rose is a rose is a rose.
' I've skewed it to suit our purpose as painters.

• Here it is: "an artist is an artist is an artist.
  "

What does it mean? A painter can use other art forms to keep the work fresh, for example, writing.
You can make quick sketches of your ideas for a new painting.
You can scribble a sketch of anything that catches your eye and inspires you.
Tape those sketches somewhere you're bound to see them, every day.
You can write notes on any flashes of insight you get for improving your art.
Keep a small notepad and pen in your pocket or purse.
Keep another in the bedroom, the kitchen, the office, anywhere you frequent.

• How will it help?

Every serious artist is a "genius" at some times and an "idiot" at others.
When the 'genius' moment strikes, you may be unable to take up brush and paints but you can always make a sketch or a written note.
TIP: go into your studio every single day.
Even if it's only for 10 minutes.
Before you leave for your 'day job' or a date with the 'One,' walk into that space you call Studio.
Take a deep breath, reminding yourself of the truth.

• You are an artist, no matter what.