ADHD Changed My Art Style

Why I Paint Mini

If you've ever wondered why I paint mini paintings. Here's a look into my thoughts and feelings around painting small.

As a person with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) mini paintings have encouraged me to create in a way that my brain can process. Everyone's ADHD is different but most struggle with executive function.  Which can cause us to have difficulty following through on tasks, staying focused, and managing time effectively. We may become easily distracted by other things, lose track of time, or become overwhelmed by the task at hand. As a result, we may procrastinate or leave tasks unfinished, which can lead to a sense of frustration and discouragement.

Working With My ADHD Brain

I wanted to find a way to work with my brain instead of against it. I found myself leaving a lot of projects unfinished which made me feel discouraged to create more art. This made me sad because I've always enjoyed my creative brain and the cool ideas that I come up with. I have a desire to create and express my feels. On one hand I did feel okay with the unfinished projects. On the other hand I felt a sense of failure because I never got my full idea on paper before I became unmotivated to finish it.

This lead me to figure out a way to keep creating but do it in bite size pieces that I could complete in one sitting. This one sitting mini painting helped me tap into one of ADHD people's best strengths, hyperfocus!

What is hyperfocus?

Hyperfocus is a common symptom of ADHD that refers to the ability to become deeply engrossed in a task or activity to the point of losing track of time, surroundings, and other responsibilities.

While is hyperfocus can be bad sometimes. Using the focus for a short art project, makes it become a blessing. I am able to get into a flow state a lot easier then a neurotypical person. If you have ADHD or have similar struggles to me, give mini painting a try. I hope this encourages you to get creating even if it's just a small painting. Your art and creativity is needed in this world.

Learn more about flow state in this blog post...

Getting Into A Flow State

Written by Megan ~ Flow state is a state of mind where an artist or creative person is fully absorbed in their work. Feeling completely focused and immersed in the creative process. It is a state of deep concentration.

Megan Josol ArtMegan Josol

If you are struggling to finish a painting remember this quote. It has always made me feel at peace when perfectionism creeps into my brain.

"Art is never finished, only abandoned" -Leonardo Da Vinci