Finding Inspiration

I am often asked by my readers, family and friends, how do you find inspiration? How do you keep creativity flowing? Well, I thought it would be best for me to share my answers. I wrote a post last year about what was inspiring me at the time. The thing with inspiration, is that it's constantly changing and with it your work. What I was inspired by last year is completely different to what is fueling my creativity now. I
move with my influences and channel this inspiration into my work. My love of horror inspired me last year to create character cushions, but now I am inspired by it in a completely different way. 

I recently watched Frankenstein (1931) and I sat right on the edge of my seat, not because of the monster, but because of her veil! I sat forward and analysed her veil, 'how was that made?'. I almost paused it! She looks absolutely stunning and what a dress to be frightened in! She looks absolutely beautiful! I really think the 30s style cap veils are gorgeous and is something I would like to explore. I guess it seems strange being inspired to make something beautiful by a monster film, but it goes to show that inspiration comes from many different sources. 

My other love is for vintage and old movies from the 20s through to the 60s. I love looking at photos of old movie stars from all the different decades and it's interesting how they change. I love Marilyn Monroe and I know I am not alone; How can you not love her? I love the pictures from her wedding to Arthur Miller. She wears a modest but classic dress, and she makes it look fantastic!

Grace Kelly is probably one of the most famous brides to have ever walked down the aisle! A movie star that became a Princess, women and little girls have read this fairy tale for hundreds of years. Grace's dress and her look has inspired countless designers and brides and most recently, Kate Middleton. Kate's lace gown was obviously inspired by Princess Grace and the classic design is as stylish today as it was 60 years ago.When I am creating a veil I think about classic design, it will never go out of fashion and will always look amazing. I guess what I am saying is that there is nothing wrong with not moving with the times, great design will never die so use it to your advantage. The past is a great resource and it is all around us. 

Inspiration is not something you can force, you have let it come to you! Try to remember what has inspired you and start from there. I have often gone for weeks without feeling inspired, it's a terrible feeling but it never lasts forever. I thought I would write a list of tips I have found useful in my quest for inspiration. 

Take a long walk with your camera

Have a movie marathon

Watch your favourite film

Go to a museum or gallery

Read a magazine or book

Window shop

Go to antique markets or car boots

Browse Pinterest

Read your favourite blogs

Organise your work space

Cook an exotic meal

Wear something you never wear

Take a little sketchbook or notebook out with you

Look at old brainstorms or create new ones

I hope this post helps you on your creative missions. Don't freak out if you have a dry spell! Try one of the tips on my list! Get out there and soak up the world around you! 

Abbey

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