How to Exercise your Creativity with Symmetrical Flow Drawing

As artists, it’s completely common to hit a creative block. Whether you are simply feeling a little down, uninspired or overthinking it all, it can really affect your creative drive. One method I like to use to kick start my art is creating a symmetrical flow drawing. It is also a great activity to build spontaneity and flow in your art. This post will include step by step tips, materials, and a video tutorial to show you the process in action. So let’s get started…

What is artistic flow?

Artistic flow is a state of mind. It is the act of being immersed and present in your art making process. You’ve probably been “in the flow” if you have been working on an artwork and completely forgot about the constructs of time or the need to eat. When someone is in artistic flow, worries about the past and future cease to exist. It is a truly great feeling!

What is symmetry?

Symmetry is when an image is equally balanced on left and ride side. To determine symmetry, simply draw a line down the middle of an image. If the image is mirrored, it is symmetrical. A great example of symmetry found in nature is a butterfly.

What materials will I need to create a symmetrical flow drawing?

For this activity, it is fun to work with a mixed media approach. I recommended the following materials:

• White paper
• Pencil
• Sharpie
• Liquid watercolor (a little goes a long way!)
• Colored pencils

However, feel free to explore a variety of tools, such as alcohol inks, India ink, acrylic and more.

What are the steps to create a symmetrical flow drawing?

1. Fold a piece of paper in half.
2. Add some colorful paint on one half. I recommend using lighter colors to make marks you add more visible.
3. Fold the paper in half again and press to create a symmetrical “ink blot”
4. Take a mindful moment to observe the ink blot. What images do you see in the shapes and blots? Grab a pencil and begin drawing into the colors. Feeling stuck? Outline some shapes to get started.
5. Use sharpie to define your pencil lines.
6. Add details with a fine line marker or ball point pen.
7. Explore adding more color with a colored pencil.

Here is a helpful video showing a symmetrical flow drawing step by step. Check it out!

Here are a few examples from some of my talented high school students:

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I hope you enjoy this idea for a breaking out of a creative block. I would love to see your symmetrical flow drawing. Feel free to send me your work at makeamarkstudios@gmail.com.

Let’s here from you!

What do you do to help get out of an art funk? How do you find your artistic flow? Comment below! I’d love to hear from you.

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