The Sketchbook Stories
Reflections on creativity, curiosity, the artist’s journey, and the sketchbook.
Written by: Lindsay Agnew
Got a Problem? Color Outside the Lines + 5 Ways You Can Too!
Making every problem a playground for ideas.
10/20/20252 min read
The world calls it problem solving—and I mean, 99% of people do. Most see obstacles as problems to fix. The 1% of artists or designers? We see them as invitations to explore, experiment, and discover something unexpected. Or at least I do! ;)
Using my creative juices is the most exciting part of being an artist, designer, or creative. It’s a new idea or project that I get to add a spark, creativity, and fun to. I approach it by taking direction or a concept and coloring outside the lines—thinking outside the box, even miles away from it—to give my clients or personal artwork something to ponder, reflect on, or be surprised by. What was lacking is now an opportunity for curiosity and imagination to take the lead.
When a project hits a roadblock, there’s no need to panic (the 99% do). Just play. Every “problem” becomes a chance to explore new possibilities, test ideas, and create something unique. It’s not about instant perfection—it’s about curiosity in action, iteration, and a little bit of magic. After all, that’s where imagination and creativity start to stir—adding a little of this, a little of that, and seeing what emerges.
5 Ways to Explore a Problem (But Really, Play!)
1. Flip the Question
Ask yourself: What if the opposite were true? or How could I make this even more fun? Changing perspective often reveals surprising solutions.
2. Doodle It Out
Grab a sketchbook or scrap paper and draw, scribble, or map ideas visually. Sometimes a simple doodle sparks the breakthrough you didn’t see on the page.
3. Play with Constraints
Give yourself a quirky limitation—like “only use circles” or “one color”—and see how it pushes creative thinking. Constraints often unlock innovation.
4. Iterate, Don’t Perfect
Test, tweak, and explore multiple versions of your idea. Each iteration teaches something new, and every small change can lead to a big discovery.
5. Take a Break & Return
Step away from the problem for a while—go for a walk, make tea, or just breathe. Returning with fresh eyes can transform frustration into inspiration.
If you’re in a team environment, step away from your computers and have a creative brainstorming session. Write or draw ideas, discuss, collaborate—but the number one rule is: no negativity. Don’t focus on “how,” “how much,” or “that won’t work.” Let creativity flow first, and the solutions will follow.
Curiosity, play, and experimentation aren’t just fun—they’re how artists and designers turn challenges into magic.
Give It A Try
Pick one obstacle or project and approach it like an artist: explore, experiment, and color outside the lines. You might be surprised at what you discover.
Keep the Inspiration Coming
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