The most consistent illustrators don't rely on inspiration – they build reliable rituals that generate creative momentum regardless of mood. If you draw the first thing in the morning you get the purest creative flow, before it gets contaminated by the day’s troubles.
These early moments, when your critical mind isn't fully awake but your visual perception is fresh, often produce the most authentic expressions of your style and interests. The cumulative effect of this daily practice shapes your artistic voice more powerfully than occasional marathon sessions.
TEN MINUTE ARTIST PROMPT
Night and Day
Draw a subject in the morning (5 minutes), Draw it again at night (5minutes) …what did you notice?
It makes a lot of difference if you get a good nights sleep the night before!
I notices a wonkiness in the evening, and more confidence and clarity in the morning I wonder how it is for everyone else. For me at least morning drawings are better than night drawings, they also require less effort.
Though sometimes it does take effort to just sit down and draw.
Maybe effort is not the right word, maybe the right word is wisdom.
There is an Ancient Greek word; Kairos. Which means exactly the right moment to do something. I don’t know when your exact moment is to do your 10 minute practice, but I urge you to find it and use it!
When do you do your practice? Leave a comment!
If you know someone who could use some daily inspirations and encouragement, invite them to join us!
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At Ten Minute Artist, we’re challenging the “struggling artist” myth.
I believe artists create some of the world’s most important work and deserve to thrive while doing it. Every prompt, sprint, and resource is designed with one goal: transforming mindsets from struggling to thriving through small, consistent actions.
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I'm with you about more motivation in the morning and a weirdness in the evening. My best days are when I can ride that out.
While I say this, I actually find myself working the night shift this week! It’s what works for now, but I’m tuning myself back to ‘local’ time… it is a kind of jet lag!