A blog dedicated to

Art, Creativity, & Mental health

My creativity is tied deeply to my mental well being so it is easy for me to speak of them both in the same breath. Whether it is insight on my process, art tips for fellow creatives, or simply a mental health check in, I created this space to help others feel a little less alone in the world. Consider this a lantern in the dark.

Samantha Johnson 7/9/21 Samantha Johnson 7/9/21

The Dreaded ‘Art Block’

When Creativity Feels Like Pushing a Boulder Up a Mountain

First off, encountering creative blocks and resistance is normal. No one can create all day every day their entire life without hitting snags.

Second, that resistance is probably trying to tell you something, and if you stubbornly try to push past it or repeatedly throw yourself against that wall without taking a moment to assess your situation, you’re gonna have a bad time.

I am speaking from my own experience, of course.

Samantha Johnson 5/21/21 Samantha Johnson 5/21/21

Artistic Alchemy

When art means creating light from absolute darkness

I've been in a grief induced depression fog all week. It will come and go as it pleases, and I'm coping the best I can. But it is really frustrating when I have so much to get done and my poor brain is too exhausted to stay focused.

Samantha Johnson 3/15/21 Samantha Johnson 3/15/21

Tabula Rasa

Time To Start Anew

To exist is to be in a constant state of evolution. A choice is made, knowledge is obtained, growth occurs, a single path diverges into several paths, a choice is made and the cycle continues. To be an artist is no different.