by Steve Barr
I can’t really begin to pinpoint where my inspiration comes from. When people ask where I get my ideas, I don’t tend to have an answer ready. Ideas just seem to leap into my head out of nowhere. My best guess is that there’s some faulty wiring in my brain. That’s most likely due to the regular “thumpings” my older brother gave me on a daily basis as we were growing up. Perhaps he knocked a few screws loose.
I can get inspired by all sorts of things. Some of my best ideas pop into my mind when I’m driving down the highway with no music on, just daydreaming. Or when I’m laying in bed drifting off to sleep. If I had music blaring inside the truck, the lyrics would be too distracting and I’d just end up singing along with them. At home, when I’m locked away in my studio, I do listen to music. But it’s usually jazz, classical or new age. Anything that doesn’t have words blasting into my mind. I want all of the words that are rushing through my head to be my own.
I OBSERVE. By that, I mean I tend to truly look at everything around me. If I’ve hiked miles away from civilization and I’m sitting on a mountaintop watching a hawk fly above me, I’m usually thinking “Oh….THAT’S how their wings are shaped when they’re drifting!” and I incorporate that into my work later. You may sometimes see me sitting in a mall somewhere, and it will appear that I’m gawking at people passing by. Sometimes I stare. But what’s actually going through my mind is “So, that’s how the wrinkles on a coat look when someone bends their arm” or “What a crazy hat! I need to remember that and draw it later.”
I also LISTEN. When other people are talking, I really want to hear what they have to say. Their problems, their frustrations and the things that make them laugh. Because, after all, any of those conversations can be the foundation of an idea for a book or a cartoon. Inspiration is all around us, and we just need to learn how to harness it in our own way.
For instance, a friend was recently telling me that he was concerned that his wife was thinking of getting rid of him. On my ride home, the idea for a cartoon about that popped into my head and I drew it the next day.
Yet another acquaintance was complaining about having trouble getting to sleep. As I was approaching my cabin later that night, a raccoon darted across my path. Those two subjects merged in my mind, and another cartoon was born.
The process of creating books and cartoon ideas are very similar. It’s just that cartoons are compressed into images and thoughts that can be expressed quickly, while books use pictures and words to give a longer, more complete story.
But, like everyone else involved in creative endeavors, there are those days where I’m stopped dead in my tracks by a severe case of “writer’s block”. What do I do then? Well, sometimes I give myself a break, walk away from my work and let my batteries recharge. But if I’m faced with a tight deadline, whether it’s self-imposed or from contractual obligations, I do have a backup plan. I use a technique taught to me by another successful cartoonist when I was young. I take a sheet of notebook paper and divide it into columns. The columns are labelled “Main Character”, “Setting”, and “Supporting Characters”. I fill the columns with all sorts of possibilities, then either close my eyes and randomly circle sections from each column or I simply pick combinations that I think might work. This creates unique combinations I may not have thought about otherwise, and can help trigger new ideas and possibilities.
Cartoonists, like authors, are doing the same thing as a movie director. They created a cast, give them their lines and put them in the right surroundings.
Here’s an example of the chart:
Once one of the combinations begins to trigger ideas, I roll with it….trying to think of what the characters might be saying to each other or how they would be interacting. This method would probably work just as nicely for inspiring writers as it for helping cartoonists. I ask myself what the characters would have in common, or what issues they might be struggling with. And here are the results of combining a dog, a restaurant and a woman on a date:
So, my creative process is very similar to approaching a railroad crossing. Stop. Look. And listen!
Sometimes it results in wonderful inspiration. And other times it results in a train wreck. If the latter happens, I just dust myself off, tuck that idea away for a different time and start on another.
As the late great cartoonist Gil Foxx once wrote in a book he signed to me, “Persist. Over…..and over….and over…and over.” Just keep chugging away, and eventually you are bound to end up on the right track.
Another great source of inspiration can be your editor. (Or an agent, if you have one.) Something I think that many writers and artists tend to forget is that your editor is your best friend. They’re your teammate. You both have the same goal. You are both trying to develop the best product possible. I know quite a few people who like to argue with their editors when they’re given input, because they feel a bit insulted that someone is trying to change part of their creation.
I’ve never looked at it that way. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with some of the finest editors in the field, and I would always listen to their suggestions because I knew they had my best interests at heart.
Do you know that Maurice Sendak had originally intended to call Where the Wild Things Are something totally different? Yup. He was going to title it Land of the Wild Horses. But when he started working on the illustrations, he realized that he wasn’t very good at drawing horses. It was his editor’s suggestion to change it to “WIld Things”, inspired by a Yiddish expression that referred to boisterous children.
Can you imagine the world of children’s literature without Where the Wild Things Are in it? I can’t. And it may never have happened if he hadn’t been willing to collaborate closely with his editor.
Christina Richards, my editor at IMPACT Books, edited my books perfectly and seamlessly. By the time I received the galley proofs for Draw Crazy Creatures, I could not tell which words were mine and which ones were hers. She had removed unnecessary and redundant text during the editing process, and had made minor changes to some of my sentences that had a major impact on them. A major impact that made them better. She made the book flow smoothly.
So I’d highly recommend that folks in the creative end of this business open themselves up to constructive criticism, helpful suggestions and any input from the editorial staff they are working with. These people are in the positions they are in because they know what they are doing. They are the inspiration behind the scenes, and when they’re done helping you, they will have played a huge role in making you and your work shine.
Steve Barr is the author and illustrator of Draw Crazy Creatures and Draw Awesome Animals from IMPACT books. He’s also written and illustrated a series of 11 books in the 1-2-3 Draw line from Peel Productions.
Steve’s cartoons have appeared in a variety of newspapers and magazines, including “The Complete Idiot’s Guides” and the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series. He’s also done a lot of art for a wide variety of educational products and publications. You can take a peek at some of his work on his website SteveBarrCartoons.com.
Steve is giving away two signed copies of Draw Crazy Creatures!
Two winners will be randomly selected at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
266 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 21, 2013 at 8:04 am
Kimberly Vogel
Love the 123 Draw books! I used them this year in an art class for kids. Amazing results! The kids were so proud of their work! Thank you for empowering kids (and adults too!)!!!
November 21, 2013 at 8:05 am
shiela fuller
This very interesting post got me thinking about where I get my inspiration from. My inspiration is random and can be carved from everyday experiences, nature, and other people. I also like to listen to ZEN as I write.
November 21, 2013 at 8:05 am
Cheryl Mansfield
Thanks, Steve for a great post. I tried your 3-column exercise once in a workshop, but had since forgotten about it. Thanks for the reminder…going play with it again today.
November 21, 2013 at 8:07 am
Tina Cho
I like your Stop. Look. and Listen idea. Thanks for sharing these cute cartoons, demonstrating how you matched characters and settings. And I loved what you shared about Sendak’s Wild Things!
November 21, 2013 at 8:09 am
Jackie Wellington
This is amazing. I love the chart. I am a big cartoon fanatic. So this was “write” up my alley 😀 Thanks for sharing. It is appreciated.
November 21, 2013 at 8:10 am
Laura Gehl
Love the idea chart, and your story about Whee the Wild Things Are. Thanks for a great post.
November 21, 2013 at 8:12 am
MC
That’s so crazy about the Wild Things. You’re right: collaboration can yield something better than either individual might have found on his own.
November 21, 2013 at 8:13 am
Victoria Warneck
Thanks for a great post, Steve. I love your work!
November 21, 2013 at 8:15 am
Laura Zimmermann
Great post!
November 21, 2013 at 8:15 am
Sue Heavenrich
thanks! I love your Stop, Look, Listen reminder. And the list! definitely the list!
November 21, 2013 at 8:19 am
Donna Mae Pasiczniak
Thank you for this wonderful information. Also, I think ideas come the universal energies that surround us every day
November 21, 2013 at 8:22 am
Alicia van Thiel
Great suggestions! Thank you!
November 21, 2013 at 8:24 am
Juliana Lee
I’m picturing you staring at people at the mall… hahahaha! It’s kinda hard to be professional when who look like a creeper! At least take a sketch pad with you…. just a suggestion! 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 7:27 am
Steve Barr
It gets even creepier if you stare at people in the mall, and then you try to trace them.
November 23, 2013 at 8:39 am
Juliana Lee
You have a point!
November 21, 2013 at 8:26 am
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
Sounds like I need an editor or agent! I love the post and your ideas!
November 21, 2013 at 8:27 am
MichelleLynn
Good morning! I woke up to snow this morning and anticipate it will find a way to inspire today’s idea. I love your cartoons, Steve. Thank you for sharing.
November 21, 2013 at 8:28 am
Michele Norman
Steve – I love your illustrations and your advice for generating ideas. My kitchen chalkboard wall now has three columns! Many thanks.
November 21, 2013 at 8:28 am
storyfairy
That chart you made seems very helpful! Thank you!
November 21, 2013 at 8:30 am
Juliet Clare Bell
I like your list! Thanks! Clare.
November 21, 2013 at 8:36 am
Hana
Thanks for the tips, especially the three-column one! The illustrations rock, too. 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 8:38 am
Jacki Morris
I especially liked the train analogies – very clever. Great cartoons – made me chuckle!
November 21, 2013 at 8:38 am
One Happy Writer
Wonderful suggestions, Steve. Thank you 🙂 I’m going to give your idea chart a try, see what happens. Sunny greetings!
November 21, 2013 at 8:39 am
Jewel Sample
I love your cartoons…They gave me some ideas….thank you for reminding me that events, characters and dialogue can be mixed up and a new story develops. Happy creating.
November 21, 2013 at 8:41 am
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Fabulous post! Thank you Steve!! I am taking your suggestions to heart.
November 21, 2013 at 8:41 am
jheitman22
I agree that editors can really help you make your books the best possible. Thanks for the chart–a fun and useful idea!
November 21, 2013 at 8:44 am
Kim Pfennigwerth
Wonderful post and fun art! Love your stop, look, and listen along with the persist, over and over and over. Thanks for such great advice!
November 21, 2013 at 8:49 am
msmo1958
Great post. Love the three column process and simply listening and observing advice.
November 21, 2013 at 8:52 am
Courtenay Schurman
My daughter and I love your books. And your advice. Well taken! Thanks for sharing!
November 21, 2013 at 8:52 am
rgstones
Great post! I need to turn off the noise in my life to hear the words rushing in my own head. I’m going to try the three-column technique today.
November 21, 2013 at 8:54 am
dorothia
Thank you for the wonderful post. You work is so fun. I especially liked the chart to generate ideas and the cartoon that followed.
November 21, 2013 at 9:05 am
skeerswriter
I used a chart like that when teaching a writing class with kids — now I’m going to use it to generate my own ideas. Thanks for the fun and creative post!
November 21, 2013 at 9:06 am
Pat Haapaniemi
This was such a great post, Steve! It’s filled with great ideas and I love your cartoons!
November 21, 2013 at 9:16 am
nicole snitselaar
Thank you for this very interesting post !
Geat to meet someone who can’t listen to music with lyrics…
I love observing people… and I have already mentionned to my husband that the day we are old and bored, I would just love to sit somewhere I can look and observe people ! 😉
November 21, 2013 at 9:22 am
Susan Cabael
I think it’s time for a people-watching trip to the mall so I can get back on track. Wild horses, huh? Unthinkable!
November 21, 2013 at 9:25 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Sometimes I am amazed how things come together just out of the blue. Thank you for reminding me that anything can inspire us.
November 21, 2013 at 9:26 am
S.H. Sherlock
This was an entertaining post- thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 9:26 am
Anne Bielby
I’m encouraged, because my brother once dropped me on my head. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 7:18 am
Steve Barr
🙂
November 21, 2013 at 9:26 am
Natasha
Cartooning! I’d give it a try with Steve’s help.
November 21, 2013 at 9:27 am
megmillerwrites
I love your chart idea! And the subsequent cartoon with the lady and the dog, too funny. Thank you for the inspiration!!
November 21, 2013 at 9:30 am
deborahholtwilliams
So interesting about Sendak’s original title being Land of the Wild Horses! Good to see that even the most talented and creative illustrators can take direction from an editor that leads to greatness. Thanks for your excellent post!
November 21, 2013 at 9:30 am
Bonnie Adamson
Cartoonists are MASTER storytellers! I love your work, Steve–thanks for sharing the inspiration chart.
November 21, 2013 at 9:30 am
Amanda Banks
I love the chart. Thanks for the post!
November 21, 2013 at 9:30 am
lmconnors
Thank you for your post–I think I will try a chart for ideas, but I agree that many come while being quiet and listening and observing.
November 21, 2013 at 9:34 am
Eileen
Wonderful. Thanks for sharing.
November 21, 2013 at 9:36 am
Robin Howard
Thanks for this, Steve . . .over and over and over 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 9:37 am
Dee Almond
I see so much these days about having a playlist while you write. It’s great to cybermeet someone with strong justification for avoiding said playlist. Now I don’t feel quite so un-hip for not having one. Thanks Steve.
November 21, 2013 at 9:39 am
Deb Dudley
Great Post. Really related to radio comments. Some of my best ideas come when I’m driving w/ radio off.
November 21, 2013 at 9:42 am
creationsbymit
I love the train crossing analogy! Thank you for the sound advice! And I also find the bold strokes of your art inspiring! 🙂
Michele Katz/CreationsByMit
November 21, 2013 at 9:43 am
Donna L Martin
Hi Steve!
Your post is chock full of great ideas! We are almost through a wonderful month of generating picture book ideas and your lovely chart has given us a way to continue the fun into the new year!
Great post!
November 21, 2013 at 9:44 am
Nancy Armo
I enjoyed listening to you and looking at your illustrations!
November 21, 2013 at 9:50 am
Therese Nagi
Steve thanks for sharing such helpful tips, especially the column sheet with different characters and objects. I appreciated your helpful words of encouragement.
November 21, 2013 at 9:53 am
rosemary basham
Thanks for sharing some great ideas!
November 21, 2013 at 9:55 am
Lori Alexander
Loving the 3-column chart for idea generation. Will give this a try…thanks!!
November 21, 2013 at 10:05 am
cherylsec
What a great post! Such helpful advice. I really like the column technique, and I appreciate the wise words about listening to an agent or editor. Thanks so much for sharing with us today.
November 21, 2013 at 10:05 am
Lynn A. Davidson
On my blog yesterday I said, “I go about my day filtering out way too much.” I am trying to remedy that, and your post stressed that to me. 🙂
This is an informative and helpful post, thank you, Steve.
November 21, 2013 at 10:07 am
laurenhk
Thank you for your fantastic ideas and reminding us of the value of “stopping, looking, and listening” while partnering, brainstorming, and just plain thinking outside of the proverbial box.
November 21, 2013 at 10:08 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you for sharing how you find ideas and inspiration — your chart is a great way to get the mind flowing again. I love your cartoons and how you stop, look, and listen to create them. Your point about collaboration with editors and how important and vital their input is reminds me of how helpful my critique group has been for me. Hooray for yiddish expressions!
November 21, 2013 at 10:09 am
Russ Hogle
Wow! Simple straight forward ideas that make so much sense I have to ask myself “Why couldn’t I figure this out?” Thanks for the motivation.
November 21, 2013 at 10:11 am
Sue Poduska
Thanks so much, Steve. Love your work and love all the little insights.
November 21, 2013 at 10:12 am
jdewdropsofink
Great info. I love that idea chart especially.
November 21, 2013 at 10:14 am
emazza1217
Thank you for your contribution. I especially appreciate where you discussed listening to music with no words. I can relate! Sometimes words DO get in the way.
November 21, 2013 at 10:24 am
Mary McClellan
What a wonderful thing to be able to work at something you love. And as successfully as you have! Thanks for your ideas. I’m going to make up a chart today.
November 21, 2013 at 10:24 am
Maria Gianferrari
I love the chart idea! Sometimes those visual arrangements spark just the right chords.
Thanks for your post, Steve! Love the Woman & Dog cartoon!
November 21, 2013 at 10:25 am
Debbie Watley
Thanks for the encouragement to persist–over and over and over!
November 21, 2013 at 10:25 am
Sandy Perlic
Great advice about persistence, and mixing things up to get inspiration. Love your cartoons!
November 21, 2013 at 10:26 am
Jan Milusich
Thanks for the creative thoughts.
November 21, 2013 at 10:28 am
Dawnyelle
As an art teacher, I love your drawing books. I use several in my class. As an illustrator/author I have nearly crashed into many tree, not by texting , but trying to write down my ideas as I travel. What a great Thursday post!
November 21, 2013 at 10:32 am
beckylevine
I LOVE the fragile sticker! And you gave me some great ideas. Thanks. 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 10:33 am
Shanda McCloskey
Fun inspiring post! Thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 10:33 am
Julie Falatko
It’s totally cracking me up that a friend of yours confessed he was afraid his wife was trying to get rid of him, and that your response (after sympathy, I’m sure, for sure) was to make a cartoon of it. And add me to the list of people loving that chart.
November 21, 2013 at 10:33 am
Angela Turner
This was all great information and a good laugh to start the day. I want to learn to draw with his books!
November 21, 2013 at 10:39 am
LovableLobo
Great post! I love your methods!
November 21, 2013 at 10:44 am
The Librarian
Great tips!
November 21, 2013 at 10:44 am
lindaschueler
Hmm, my first comment did not come through for some reason, so I will try again.
Anyway, it’s great to be reminded to be open to constructive criticism and helpful suggestions.
November 21, 2013 at 10:58 am
Pam Jones
Really wonderful, thank you for sharing your thoughts on inspiration and also embracing the help from our agents and editors. 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 11:01 am
danielledufayet
Good, solid advice! Thank you!
November 21, 2013 at 11:06 am
Marty McCormick
Love the chart idea and the casting director analogy. Thanks for your thoughts and for the reminder to be open to constructive criticism. Plan to check out your books – both for me and the grandkids.
November 21, 2013 at 11:08 am
Jessica
I agree. If someone wants to make your story better and help your words to have greater impact, you should listen to them…you are only hurting yourself and your creation if you don’t.
November 21, 2013 at 11:15 am
Larry Brimner
Probably one of the most helpful pieces I’ve read this month. Many thanks.
November 21, 2013 at 11:20 am
Ashley Bankhead
Great post. I had no idea about the title of the book, Where The Wild Things Are. Very interesting.
November 21, 2013 at 11:21 am
Heather Gale
Steve, it was a pleasure to read your kind words on your Editor, Christina Richards. It shows you make a great team!
Just getting into sketching and am finding the joy in staring at things in wonder like I once did. Loved your article, thanks for contributing.
November 21, 2013 at 11:38 am
LeeAnn Jensen
Thank you so much for your ideas on observation! I love your work too!
November 21, 2013 at 11:38 am
Janie Reinart
Thank you Steve for the wonderful post. Your cartoon about the lady, dog, on a date, made me laugh out loud! Love the idea of making columns on the notebook paper. Trying that right now.
November 21, 2013 at 11:40 am
naomimgruer
Thanks for the great brainstorming ideas. My favorite part of this post is the advice to “persist…over and over.” I’m chugging away and see the train I need to get to!
November 21, 2013 at 11:42 am
Susan Nicholas
Love your cartoons! I enjoyed reading about your creative process and I plan to use a few of your tips for my own projects.
November 21, 2013 at 11:44 am
Teresa Daffern
Thank you for the inspiration and for making new ideas seem so attainable. Your art books are wonderfully inspiring for children and teachers alike! I have introduced them to many reluctant teachers who thought they were ‘no good at art’, only to discover that they had it in them all along.
November 21, 2013 at 11:48 am
Holly Bliss
Great ideas 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 11:52 am
Jennifer Voigt Kaplan
What a fun framework! Thank you for sharing. Now let’s see. A priest and a giraffe zoom up to a cupcake shop in a go-kart…..
November 21, 2013 at 12:01 pm
Erin Fennell
I didn’t know that about Where the Wild Things Are! Thanks for the great post!
November 21, 2013 at 12:05 pm
SevenAcreSky
Great post on inspiration. I have to admit the STOP is the part I have problems with…when I do finally stop, I do listen and look, but the next STOP is taking time to write the idea down. At least PiBoIdMo is training me there, thank goodness and Tara and Steve and other contributors to this process–as well as all the encouraging comments.
November 21, 2013 at 12:06 pm
tpierce
This was fantastic! I love how Steve showed how to connect random things. I think creating even single-scenes (cartoons) would be tremendous creative fodder for writers and could inspire full stories. Plus, sound advice about working with editors and agents, our greatest allies.
November 21, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Heather Greene
Thanks for the insights to your creativity, Steve. Will keep chugging along!
November 21, 2013 at 12:11 pm
melaniebellsworth3
I enjoyed your cartoons, Steve, especially the dog on a date! Cartoonists have an even harder job than picture book writers; at least we get 500 words. I’m so impressed with how cartoonists can tell a complete story with 15 or so. I took your advice and observed today while I was at the dentist, and now I have a story idea. Thank you! I’ll try out that character chart too – looks very useful.
November 21, 2013 at 12:13 pm
kathydoherty1
Great post! Thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 12:16 pm
cathy john biggerstaff
Thanks for the great advice, Steve! And thanks for sharing some of your drawings with us. You have inspired me today.
November 21, 2013 at 12:18 pm
Donna L. Sadd
BOOM, there it is! Thanks for the inspiring post, Steve. I printed out your chart and came up with a funny idea for a story right away! :0) P.S. loved your cartoons!
November 21, 2013 at 12:21 pm
Pat Holloway
Great post! Thank you for all the ideas. The comments demonstrate how much everyone was inspired.
November 21, 2013 at 12:21 pm
Evie Hjartarson
Steve, thanks for the advice. Love the stop, look and listen.
November 21, 2013 at 12:22 pm
Robyn Campbell
Thanks for the stupendous advice!!! I felt a super de duper stirring of the marbles inside my head! The cartoons made me giggle. I love to giggle.
November 21, 2013 at 12:25 pm
Michelle @ Fitztopia
Since the start of the month, I have been trying to pay attention more to my surroundings. The sparks of inspiration have been flying! There will be sifting, for sure, but thanks for sharing the insights and ways to bring it all together. Love the expressions of your characters! 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 12:26 pm
Sue Schnitzer
Great blog post. Thanks. Never had heard that about “Where the Wild Things Are”. It is an awesome title and an awesome book.
November 21, 2013 at 12:27 pm
Patrick Waldron
Hey Steve, I didn’t expect this line from reading your opening sentence, “If I’ve hiked miles away from civilization and I’m sitting on a mountaintop…” Gosh, I’m in the wrong part of the country for inspiration!
Thank you.
November 21, 2013 at 12:41 pm
jdrury002
I find listening to my kids is a great source of inspiration. Sometimes their one liners are great starting points for book ideas.
November 21, 2013 at 12:44 pm
Judith Snyder
I also use that chart idea. It comes in very handy and helps to create unusual plots. I concur with your point about constructive criticism. My writing is so much better after considering critique comments.
November 21, 2013 at 12:52 pm
Debra Daugherty
Sometimes I just need to sit at my computer to find inspiration. I think staring at a blank screen motivates me to fill it. I like your chart idea. Think of the hundreds of possibilities you have with just that one chart!
November 21, 2013 at 1:00 pm
Ashley Potts
Great advice! And a great reminder of the power of constructive criticism.
November 21, 2013 at 1:00 pm
rlkurstedt
Love your cartoons. I agree that your process is similar to many writers. I know it’s similar to mine.
November 21, 2013 at 1:10 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks for the great tips. You make everything look easy (the true indication of expertise!).
November 21, 2013 at 1:14 pm
kpbock
I’m going to go try that chart idea right now!
November 21, 2013 at 1:26 pm
LeslieG
Stop, look, listen, and keep on chugging–great advice!
November 21, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Lauri
Great post! I agree, your editor is there to help make your book the best book possible. Love your drawings, Steve!
November 21, 2013 at 1:44 pm
Denise Bowman
Thank you for the suggestions! They are very practical, and I love that you use them for art as well as writing.
November 21, 2013 at 1:46 pm
Joanne Roberts
Thanks for the solid, practical advice for getting through a block. And it’s nice to know I’m not the only one staring at the fold of a coat sleeve.
November 21, 2013 at 2:12 pm
Linda
Great post and I love your cartoons.
November 21, 2013 at 2:16 pm
Alan Stacy
May not seem like a terribly original idea but I’m writing my groups of three elements down on paper and putting them in their own separate bowls/piles to draw from to see what I get.
November 21, 2013 at 2:17 pm
kathalsey
The list is priceless for creating ideas & I and I adore you humor! Thanks, Steve!
November 21, 2013 at 2:22 pm
Janny J. Johnson
Now I want to draw some cartoons! My creativity is spilling over into other areas of my life! It’s wonderful!
November 21, 2013 at 2:30 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
I would love to be able to draw cartoons like this! How amazing.
November 21, 2013 at 2:33 pm
Ann Birnie
Thanks Steve – I like your tip about listening. I’ve gotten some wonderful ideas not just by listening to what people say, but from hearing them trip over words.
November 21, 2013 at 2:39 pm
Julie Grasso
I loved hearing how an illustrator works. Fabulous post Steve and thanks for joining us with your collective wisdom.
November 21, 2013 at 2:40 pm
Christine M. Irvin
I love your chart idea. I’m gonna hafta try that one!!
November 21, 2013 at 2:41 pm
Pia Garneau
Thanks for sharing your process Steve. I like the idea of the chart you use. Also a great reminder that if you keep chugging along, you’ll eventually end up on the right track.
November 21, 2013 at 2:57 pm
Kaye Baillie
Thanks, Steve, I love your cartoons. And the three column chart is a great idea.
November 21, 2013 at 3:07 pm
Perfecting Motherhood
My kids LOVE the 1-2-3 Draw book series, especially the one with the knights and dragons!
Thanks for sharing your creative process, this is very insightful.
November 21, 2013 at 3:18 pm
Meline
Enjoyed your post, thanks for sharing.
November 21, 2013 at 3:21 pm
Sherry Walz
Steve, I enjoyed your post and tips for finding inspiration. The chart is a fun way to mix it up. Thanks for passing it on.
November 21, 2013 at 3:43 pm
schriscoe
Love the chart idea! Thanks for sharing!
November 21, 2013 at 4:00 pm
Mary Flynn
This was a really great post thank you so much!
November 21, 2013 at 4:03 pm
Darshana
wonderful post. thank you!
November 21, 2013 at 4:08 pm
Jennifer Kaap
Thanks for bring some humor into my work day! 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 4:19 pm
helen dening
Steve, thanks for your post. The idea chart sounds like a fun way to reignite inspiration. I’m trying it today.
November 21, 2013 at 4:20 pm
Linda E.H.
The Sendak story definitely shows how helpful an editor’s advice can be. Where the Wilds Horse Are…just doesn’t seem as good. I am glad he could draw horses. And I’d love to learn how to draw my own crazy creatures.
November 21, 2013 at 4:23 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Good advice. That being said, I definitely have experienced some of those Stop Look and Listen train wrecks. Thankfully, sometimes I can hop on the train and enjoy the ride.
November 21, 2013 at 4:41 pm
Stephanie Shaw
Steve, thank you so much for sharing your words of wisdom. I have such high respect for anyone who can tell a complete story in one picture and little text! Cartoonists rock!
November 21, 2013 at 4:40 pm
Mandy Yates
Draw crazy creatures looks like such a fun book! And great advice. 🙂
November 21, 2013 at 5:07 pm
DianeKHower
Enjoyed your post Steve. Thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 5:09 pm
danacarey1
I love this post.
“’Persist. Over…..and over….and over…and over.’ Just keep chugging away, and eventually you are bound to end up on the right track.”
Thanks, Steve.
November 21, 2013 at 5:16 pm
Sandie Sing
I loved the three column chart. I am going to develop my own chart. Your idea is brilliant. Great post. Thanks for sharing the ideas.
November 21, 2013 at 5:21 pm
Stella Jane Stauffer
Your chart prompt is fun. Your advice on having and keeping a good relationship with your agent or editor is great. The Sendak story was really interesting and a lesson in being open minded.
Thanks for your post, Steve.
Happy creating to ya…
November 21, 2013 at 5:33 pm
Sarah M. Isaacson
Thank you for your encouragement!
November 21, 2013 at 5:34 pm
DaNeil Olson
Love the chart! Thank you.
November 21, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Laurie L. Young
I have found listening to be very helpful too. Someone else’s problem can become my next story arc! I also love the character chart—great idea!
November 21, 2013 at 6:23 pm
Valerie McPherson
Love what you have here: 3 columns! Smart!
And harnessing inspiration in our own way. Indeed!
November 21, 2013 at 6:40 pm
Sheri Roloff
Really enjoyed your creative advice and your thoughts on working with editors. Thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 6:43 pm
Gaye Kick
Thank you Steve. Just when I say things like, “I’m not an artist,” along you come with books about drawing. If I don’t win “Draw Crazy Creatures” I’m going to buy it. Drawing your crazy creatures looks like lots of fun!
November 21, 2013 at 6:54 pm
Catherine Johnson
I love that stop.look and listen. I listen for ideas all the time but I haven’t tried seeing how things are to draw them. That’s a great tip. Love that chart too, thanks for all the takeaways.
November 21, 2013 at 6:57 pm
Debra shumaker
Great post. Thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 7:01 pm
bangersnmashdesign
I also spend time looking and listening which is often very hard to do in our over scheduled lives. Thanks for reminding me how important it is.
November 21, 2013 at 7:09 pm
mlucero30
What a great post! I especially like the chart idea and that part about observing how a shirt wrinkles when the arm is a certain way.
November 21, 2013 at 7:14 pm
dee win
love the “main character | setting | supporting character” chart, thanks for sharing!
November 21, 2013 at 7:18 pm
Sharon Nix Jones
Thanks for the chart idea. Sounds like fun.
November 21, 2013 at 7:20 pm
teresamis
This could possibly be my third post– tho 2 prior attempts seem to be lost in cyber space. Sorry if this is a duplicate or worse triplicate. I really enjoyed the Stop, Look, Listen … Keep on chugging message. Thanks Steve. I think you’d make a great conductor.
November 21, 2013 at 7:20 pm
Christine Cowan
I think the chart is a great idea!
November 21, 2013 at 7:21 pm
Amy Cohas
Thank you for sharing your column method. I’m going to try it!
November 21, 2013 at 7:34 pm
heatherj
My daughter’s class loves your 1-2-3 Draw books. Thanks!
November 21, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Ramona
Great post – I would love to win this book for my son – the perfect Xmas present!
November 21, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Your friends chart idea is a good idea starter. Thanks for sharing that with us.
November 21, 2013 at 7:55 pm
yetteejo
I like the chart idea.
November 21, 2013 at 8:06 pm
Noel Csermak
We now have so many ways to combat writer’s block, it should never happen! Well, maybe never.
November 21, 2013 at 8:33 pm
Dawn
Love the chart idea!
November 21, 2013 at 8:38 pm
Debra
I second the comment about being open to suggestions from editors. Being willing to make the revisions suggested by an editor at HIghlights helped me make my first short story sale.
November 21, 2013 at 9:19 pm
Steve Barr
Thanks for all of your kind comments, everyone. You’re all way too kind. I wish I had a few hundred books to give away for free to all of you. But, I do tend to like to be able to eat….
November 21, 2013 at 9:28 pm
Melanie Vickers
My drawing skills are pathetic. I want to begin with your books. The chart you described will be one I try tomorrow for inspiration. Thanks
November 21, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Crystal McIntyre
Another awesome post! I love the column approach and am going to try it right away. Also going to check out your 123 draw books! Thanks so much!
November 21, 2013 at 9:56 pm
Theanna
Thank you for the wonderful post. I agree that others input is important to writing. Sometimes that outside voice is necessary to make our stories come to life. Love your illustrations! Thank you for sharing.
November 21, 2013 at 10:30 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
What wonderful suggestions! I’m going to use his listing idea right now. Thanks.
November 21, 2013 at 10:34 pm
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thank you for your list idea!
November 21, 2013 at 11:05 pm
Carrie Brown
I am glad to hear that I’m not the only one that gets ideas when they are driving down the road! That’s how my first picture book idea came to me! Your word list reminds me of my word jar…I love playing with words. Thanks for taking part in PiBoIdMo. I can’t wait to find the 123 Draw books!
November 21, 2013 at 11:12 pm
Lisa Healy
You’ve inspired my inner illustrator I didn’t know I had.
November 22, 2013 at 12:20 am
Rebecca Trembula
Quite enjoyed the cartoons and the ideas!
November 22, 2013 at 12:40 am
Cecilia Clark
some wonderful ideas for synthesis of disparate things. Lots of good advice on listening and using constructive criticism. Thank you
November 22, 2013 at 12:59 am
Drew Dyer
I really like the idea chart idea and I’m going to try it for myself.
November 22, 2013 at 1:14 am
Gloria Amescua
I love the chart idea. I’m going to use it.
November 22, 2013 at 2:33 am
Malena Fuentes
Useful!
November 22, 2013 at 6:35 am
B Lee Draper
‘Land of the Wild Horses’? No way! So glad he listened to his instincts. 🙂
November 22, 2013 at 6:36 am
Joanne Sher
What a fabulous post! Loving the chart idea (and my daughter would love the book!). Thanks!
November 22, 2013 at 7:48 am
RaChelle Lisiecki
Steve, your ‘1, 2, 3 Draw’ series looks amazing. I just put a bunch on hold through my library that our little artist son will LOVE! I enjoyed your comments about respecting your editor/agent…now, if I could just find one of those…Cheers!
November 22, 2013 at 8:03 am
Debbie Austin
I love your list of characters, settings, and supporting characters as your jumping off point when you’re stuck. Thanks for sharing that with us. I’m off to make my own lists…and to check out your books. Thanks, Steve!
November 22, 2013 at 8:29 am
Gail Kamer
I loved reading this.
November 22, 2013 at 8:35 am
Marcy P.
I like the thought of using an idea in a snippet like a comic. I know you didn’t suggest that directly, but it’s a fun idea.. to take an idea and see if I can draw out a short scene (ha!). I can also picture you sitting in a mall staring and people, thinking of something no one would likely guess. THAT’S a comic!
November 22, 2013 at 8:42 am
Peyton Leung
What a wonderful and informative post, Steve! I was just in an outdoor science inquiry workshop where we discussed how to break down a student’s thinking process so they slow down and really think carefully; to really pay attention to detail. Be in the moment.
I also loved your 3 column idea generator – one thing to consider is using some dice or other randomizer to help choose items.
Special thanks to Tara for so much PiBoIdMo goodness!
November 22, 2013 at 8:43 am
Micki Ginsberg
Steve, thanks for those great tips. I’ll try your 3-column antidote next time I’m blocked.
November 22, 2013 at 9:10 am
Michelle Church
I love your chart, I may have to try it next time I’m stuck. Thank you!
November 22, 2013 at 9:17 am
Dawn Young
Curiosity leads to creation. Loved your post!
November 22, 2013 at 9:41 am
littledbl
I love listening in to conversations. I get great ideas from eavesdropping. 🙂 Don’t tell!
November 22, 2013 at 9:48 am
Tatiana Escallon
excellent, thanks!
November 22, 2013 at 10:00 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
I love your words about editor’s being our teammate. I’m creating my chart and excited about the ideas that may come from it. Your cartoons are hilarious. My favorite was the posted husband.
Thanks for an entertaining and helpful post.
November 22, 2013 at 10:43 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
I love this post. Not only is it filled with useful and inspirational ideas and good advice, it made me laugh. Thanks for sharing.
November 22, 2013 at 11:29 am
Lacey Gunter
Great observations and ideas. Thanks.
November 22, 2013 at 12:06 pm
Bridey Mendoza-Moore
Great ideas and tips! Thank you so much for taking the time to share!!
November 22, 2013 at 12:18 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Steve, I’m with you on the type of music while working! I listen to the same as I find it relaxing. And a relaxed mind is an open mind. Great idea with the mesh-up list!
November 22, 2013 at 12:53 pm
Angela De Groot
3 ideas leapt into my head while I was reading your post. Thanks, Steve!
November 22, 2013 at 1:03 pm
Cherie Behrens
My daughter (she’s 6) and I are always watching “learn how to draw” videos on youtube. I bet she’d love your book! Thanks for the ideas…I’m going to do the 3 columns right now!
November 22, 2013 at 1:06 pm
Ashley Bohmer
Wise words that “Stop, Look, and Listen.” 😉
November 22, 2013 at 1:15 pm
Quinn Cole
I often think I’m a closet illustrator since nearly all my picture book ideas pop into my mind as images. The tough job is to write the story that ties them together. Great advice about working with editors. I never turn down suggestions from an editor/expert without looking at it from every angle. I can then see the truth of it without ego getting involved.
November 22, 2013 at 1:34 pm
Barbara Messinger
Love the chart! Thanks!
November 22, 2013 at 1:36 pm
heather sisson
very cute ideas! I agree, dropping in on others conversations is like a gold mine for inspiration.
November 22, 2013 at 2:00 pm
mochamusing
I love the chart.
November 22, 2013 at 2:20 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
I’m going to try using the chart. Thanks!
November 22, 2013 at 3:29 pm
Michelle Proper
Nice insight on the editor/creator relationship. Thanks, Steve!
November 22, 2013 at 3:49 pm
Kjersten Hayes
Funny cartoons! Thanks.
November 22, 2013 at 4:30 pm
thiskidreviewsbooks
I like the cartoons (especially the woman and the dog on a date! Heeheehee! 😆 )! Great post, Mr. Barr!
November 22, 2013 at 5:03 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
The chart listing the main character, setting and supporting characters is outstanding with so many combinations. *Stop, Look & Listen!* is a great reminder to me. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold P. S. Such fun cartoons!
November 22, 2013 at 6:04 pm
Susan Groh
Stop, look and listen. Perfect advice.
November 22, 2013 at 7:12 pm
Brenda Harris
Thank you for the post, Steve. These posts are just so great. Everyone of them has such great timely advice.
November 22, 2013 at 7:50 pm
Jill Siegel
Excellent advice! 🙂
November 22, 2013 at 8:26 pm
MSackman
Such practical ideas for drawing inspiration. I love it. I think they will be helpful to me personally and to my students.
November 22, 2013 at 8:34 pm
Charlotte
That’s a fun list of inspirations to work from. Thanks for sharing!
November 22, 2013 at 10:05 pm
viviankirkfield
Awesome post, Steve! So glad that I stopped…looked…and listened to it today!
Your 3-column chart is going to be a life-saver for me – I often have so many ideas racing through my mind – this will help me get them on paper and then…..
And I love the cartoon with the husband in the mail…I’ve been working on a story about a little girl who wants to get rid of her baby brother – with similar results. It’s a rhyming picture book and I got road-blocked. You’ve inspired me to return to that story with revisions to ready it for submission.:)
November 23, 2013 at 3:02 am
bucherwurm65
Thank you for the tip about working with editors. I’m off now to stop, look and listen for ideas!
November 23, 2013 at 3:18 am
writersideup
Steve, this was such a great post. Just loved what you said (probably ’cause I agree with all of it, and I, too, find inspiration in pretty much anything, whether I’m looking or not). And what you did with the columns has also been done for kids in a flip book with the same idea: to mix up odd combos. I don’t remember the name of it, but it was specifically for writing prompts. Great stuff 🙂 Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 7:28 am
Joanna
I need to dig out and start using the three column chart again. Thanks, Steve.
November 23, 2013 at 10:26 am
Lauri Meyers
How much is it to ship a husband? And I think I have a story idea too!
November 23, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Catherine
I like your Main Character, Setting and Supporting Characters chart – that’s a great idea to use on the days when I’m not so inspired – Thank you 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 3:10 pm
Jennifer Ali
The chart is one of those ideas that one wishes they could have come up with a long time ago. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 4:42 pm
Shirley
Good advice. I love your cartoons.
November 23, 2013 at 4:47 pm
Sarah Maynard
A world without Wild Things?? Terrible place I’m sure. Great post. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 5:48 pm
Andrea
I love your point about getting inspiration and advice from people who really know what they are doing.
November 23, 2013 at 7:29 pm
wendymyersart
Great post! I love the chart. I think I’ll make one up and keep it hanging around. I try to think of illustrating as directing a play and it really helps.
Thank you for the inspiration!
November 23, 2013 at 10:33 pm
Cathy C. Hall
I always think I can draw until I take a look at what I’ve drawn–so I’m thinking I’ll take a look at your books!
November 23, 2013 at 11:56 pm
Fashionista Philly
thanks for your posting!
November 24, 2013 at 2:05 am
Dorina Lazo Gilmore
I like how you encore age us to observe and listen. These are two important skills I learned as a newspaper reporter. I am excited about trying out your chart. My daughter would love your drawing books!
November 24, 2013 at 2:13 am
Dorina Lazo Gilmore
Gotta love autocorrect! “Encourage”
November 24, 2013 at 6:25 am
Linda Norman-Lyman
Since I hate shopping, the best part of a trip to the mall is listening and observing. I love to take snippets of conversations I overhear and imagine them with different meanings.
November 24, 2013 at 8:16 am
Beth Gallagher
I too will make a chart and hang it up, using it and your post for inspiration! Thanks for some wonderful advice and now I’m off to try yet again to draw. 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 12:32 pm
Sharon K Mayhew
Love this post! It was nice to hear that I’m not the only person who gets their ideas in the silence and solitude of a car. 🙂 Great cartoons! Thanks for sharing.
November 24, 2013 at 2:54 pm
colleenrkosinski
Great tips! Thanks, Steve.
November 24, 2013 at 3:26 pm
Priya Gopal
Open to constructive criticism.
November 24, 2013 at 3:42 pm
RadSheri
Some great ideas and I like having the columns for brainstorming future stories.
Thanks.
November 24, 2013 at 3:49 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Love the three columns, Steve! My brother watched me “stuck” one day and sat me down to do an “interview”. He asked my favorite animals, favorite places to go, etc. After he had all the answers categorized, he made a paper spinner. I would spin it once for column A, once for column B, etc. and it worked very well.
November 24, 2013 at 4:38 pm
marciecolleen
Great ideas. And yes, listen to your agent or editor! Bravo!
November 24, 2013 at 5:09 pm
Angela Padron
I also love the columns – great ideas!
November 24, 2013 at 6:59 pm
Debbie Faith Mickelson
I want to try your 3-column exercise. That looks fun. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
November 24, 2013 at 8:41 pm
Cindy Cornwall
Thank you for your ideas…. cartoonists are the ultimate idea condensation machine. I have had several myself, none of which have seen the light of day, but I am inspired by your posting .
Stop, look and listen should be a motto for all artists/writers!
November 25, 2013 at 3:32 am
Helen Ross
I love your exercise and your inspiring ideas. And you are right – inspiration is everywhere.
November 25, 2013 at 7:30 am
Shannon Anderson
Thank you, good advice! I will have to try some charts. 😉
November 25, 2013 at 8:32 am
erin
Lots of wonderful advice here. Thank you!
November 25, 2013 at 9:11 am
aneducationinbooks
crazy creatures are great in any setting.
🙂
November 25, 2013 at 1:36 pm
Laurie Young
Crazy creatures are awesome!!! Thanks so much for the inspiration… I may have to start drawing some crazy creatures of my own …. 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 1:52 pm
Keri Collins Lewis
The chart idea is brilliant. I often have to snatch a few moments here and there to write (lunch break, anyone?!), and the chart will help me get something down even in the shortest time frame!
November 25, 2013 at 7:54 pm
writeforapples
Great ideas! I love the chart and the funny cartoons. 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 8:00 pm
rebeccaehirsch
I love your cartoons. Terrific advice about being open to suggestions. Thanks!
November 25, 2013 at 10:06 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks so much for the chart idea—so easy to use!
November 26, 2013 at 1:28 am
Lynn Anne Carol
Thanks for joining us. I love your lists. I’m going to have to start one of my own. I also enjoyed your insight about working with the editors.
Great humor,
Lynn
November 26, 2013 at 2:50 am
Dani Duck
I love the way you set up your inspiration chart. I’m going to try this. Hopefully it’s enough to get me my last few ideas!
November 26, 2013 at 3:42 pm
vijikc
I like the stop look and listen idea – thanks!
November 26, 2013 at 5:58 pm
Kelly Parker
Love the cartoons! It is good to remember that nobody is perfect, and sometimes two heads are better than one. Great suggestions about the lists, that could be a lot of fun!
November 26, 2013 at 6:48 pm
Kelly Vavala
Really love your “back up” plan….columns on paper! I tried it myself right away and really laughed out loud! Thank you so much for sharing…enjoyed this very much! Observe and Listen (love children’s conversations)!
November 27, 2013 at 12:44 am
blanchebaxter
Steve, thanks for sharing these wonderful ideas. I like the way your brain works! I find those activities very meditative as well…a great way to get ideas.
November 27, 2013 at 11:32 am
aliciaminor
Making charts is an excellent tool for generating ideas. This is a fun way to get creative. Just watch the road closely when you daydream. Thanks. Great post.
November 27, 2013 at 5:01 pm
laura516
Maybe your book can help me learn to draw!
November 28, 2013 at 8:50 am
Betsy Devany
I use the 1-2-3 Draw books with my granddaughter. She loves them! Thanks for your wonderful suggestions! Children’s conversations are the best! Thank you for an inspiring post.
November 28, 2013 at 5:58 pm
Ann Treacy
This book looks fun, I’d love to win!
I get ideas in the car too. The trick is to remember them until it is safe to write them down!
November 29, 2013 at 6:31 am
Tracey Jackson
What a great chart! Thank you for that. I got a few ideas just from looking at that for a few minutes and a few more when I saw your ‘how to draw a chick’ on your website. Thanks Steve.
November 30, 2013 at 1:13 am
angiekarcher
Great chart idea and people watching ideas!
November 30, 2013 at 9:12 am
Jeanette
I think I may get a copy of draw crazy creatures for myself. And start randomly choosing body parts like your random plot generator. Love it!
November 30, 2013 at 11:37 am
alwaysbedancing
Great post! I over the feeling of breaking it all down into easy steps to create the full picture!
November 30, 2013 at 2:51 pm
carolmunrojww
The cartoons in this post are fabulous. Thanks for the chuckles as well as the tips.
November 30, 2013 at 3:18 pm
City Sights for Kids
Some of my less-developed PiBoIdMo ideas could be incorporated onto your Character-Setting-Supporting Characters chart to inspire new possibilities. I may add a Conflict column too. Thanks!
November 30, 2013 at 6:13 pm
Dana Atnip
Steve, I love your cartoons! Thank you for sharing your process and how you get ideas. Many of my ideas tend to come from daydreaming as well, but I too will also listen to people’s conversations. Thank you for your post and advice about working with your editor and agent for inspiration!
November 30, 2013 at 9:26 pm
Tracey M. Cox
Steve, GREAT post. I love your cartoons. They definitely take it to the next step. Had me smiling and gave me an idea! YAY!
November 30, 2013 at 11:57 pm
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks for sharing some inspiration this month. I love the character/setting/supporting character chart you came up with! What a great idea.
December 1, 2013 at 12:40 am
Karen Sipps
Great post, Steve, thank you!
December 3, 2013 at 12:25 am
Laurie J. Edwards
Enjoyed the cartoons.