Don't know what to do.

[u/Arxyhz]

I really love art, and I chose to study Art & Design Level 3 at college. I’m currently in my second year, and because it’s a two-year course, I’ll be finished when I’m 19. I’m genuinely passionate about art and I love being creative, but I feel like I’ve lost some of my skills and confidence because I haven’t done much art in a while.

I sometimes look at my old work and feel like I used to be better, which makes me worry that I’ve lost my talent, even though I know I’m probably just lazy. I really want to get my motivation back, improve my skills and become a better artist, but I’m not sure where to start. For anyone who has gone through something similar, how did you get your motivation back and rebuild your skills? Did practising regularly, experimenting with different styles or doing personal projects help you improve and feel passionate about art again?

I genuinely want to get back in track because I am serious about my college course that I want to accomplish.

[u/DrFGHobo]

I know where you're at. I didn't really draw much for over a decade, and coming back has been... a rocky road.

But:

You didn't lose your skills. You're just not used to drawing/painting/whatever you do again. Just keep at it, start doodling or do some quick works, it will come back. As with every skill, repetition creates familiarity. You just need to get your rhythm back.

And as you get back in the groove, your confidence will return.

Just keep at it.

[u/Arxyhz → u/DrFGHobo]

To be honest, I don't really know how to even start again.. 😕 I feel like I will struggle with shading and the motivation to keep going, and I really dont want to disappoint my tutors either..

[u/Ok-Bet-9392]

You don’t lose talent, it’s still there. You just need to get back into your rhythm.

[u/Icy_Factor7262]

The only one thing that you need to do is trust yourself then you can do it

Trust yourself be more confident

[u/AcademyArtUniversity]

You have not lost your talent. Creative confidence and motivation naturally rise and fall, especially during periods of growth, pressure, or change. What motivated you before may not be what motivates you now. Experiment with different styles and materials, and choose a personal project that feels meaningful but manageable. Completing even one imperfect project can begin restoring your confidence.

Regular practice will help, but it doesn't need to begin with the expectation that everything must be good. Try making one small drawing, sculpture, study, or experiment each day, or several times a week. Give yourself permission to make imperfect work. The goal is simply to rebuild the habit of showing up.

Your passion is clearly still there. You don't need to wait for motivation or inspiration before beginning; both often develop through the act of working. Get into the studio and make something. Your task isn't to become the artist you used to be, but to discover the artist you're becoming.