Insight

6 creative hacks I learnt in lockdown

Marketing and Events Officer, Holly Matheson produces, acts, and directs in her spare time. She explains how she nurtured her creativity in lockdown in Sydney last year.

Woman with pink hair and pink hoodie, writing

Portrait photo of woman with hand on chin

By Holly Matheson

Marketing and Events Officer

It has been a challenging time for most, especially for us creatives who seek inspiration from life’s adventures. Last year, lockdown tested our ability and forced us to stretch our imaginations within the four corners of our homes.

There were times where I felt uninspired, unmotivated and struggling to find inspiration. I then had a thought, maybe I can use this time to find creativity within the mundane and simplistic circumstances of lockdown life.

1. Keep a notepad with you

Write down every thought and feeling that comes to mind – regardless of whether it’s positive or negative. This time has given us the opportunity to reflect and observe the world around us. Keeping a journal has helped me immensely and has even sparked an idea for my next creative project in script writing.

2. Upskill and study something you love

Why not learn a new skill or enrol yourself in one of SAE’s new short courses. Now is the perfect time to kick start your career in the creative industries. SAE is now offering a range of undergraduate certificates in graphic design, game art, virtual screen production, and virtual reality.

3. Explore with lighting and camera angles

I bought myself a handheld gimbal and have been walking around the house capturing different images and clips on my iPhone, whilst playing around with natural light and camera angles. What part of your house would make a great film set?

Do not beat yourself up if you feel like there are some days where you don't have the creative energy. Be kind to yourself and know that this moment will strengthen and inspire the creativity that is to come.

4. Move!

Physical exercise is incredibly important. I always find that I feel more creative when I have spent time in nature and breathed some fresh air. Taking regular breaks away from your screen, to rest your eyes, is equally as important to maintain your energy levels so you can reach your creative potential.

5. Watch films that inspire you

I have gone through a list of movies that I have always wanted to watch but have never got the chance. I ask myself questions like, what do I find interesting about this Director? What did I like about the cinematography, the acting or the script? Whilst in lockdown, I have been making my way through old Hollywood films such as An American in Paris (1951), and Calamity Jane (1953).

6. Keep connected

How can you network with people in the industry? The creative industry is all about building connections. This could even be your peers, or someone you look up to in the creative industry. What groups or short workshops can you do online? LinkedIn is a good place to start, as are Instagram or Clubhouse.

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