With a minor degree in illustration and art history, I am a bit of an art buff. As a freelance designer, I’ve found that the most cathartic thing I can do is to pick up my sketch book and start doodling. It can be a sketch for a logo or a brochure layout, or it might be a line drawing of my daughter asleep. I’ve found that doodling and drawing help me break my linear thought and help the creativity come back into whatever I’m working on. Time out of mind, to quote Bob Dylan.

Now – I understand that not everyone is as comfortable around pen and paper (or brushes and canvas) as I am, but I simply have to suggest getting your feet wet. It’s a wonderful, satisfying way to get (or keep) the inspiration and juices flowing.

I’ve found a few places that have some pretty nice tutorials on drawing and painting. Click here to dig it, or you can Google for your specific interest. This site is pretty broad – but also pretty nice introduction to technique.

Check it out – art is fun, and every tool you can add to your design toolbox will help!