What's on a painter's to-do list to keep their creativity burning? Discover the secrets of contemporary artist Ana Isip as she keeps the flame alive

Words Julia de Armas
Feb 29, 2024

Creativity is a garden that must be tended with care, its seeds nurtured and nourished to bloom into full fruition. For painters, nurturing this elusive essence requires more than mere technical proficiency; it demands a holistic approach that embraces the symbiotic relationship between physical, mental, spiritual, and creative well-being.

A contemporary Filipino artist since 2013, Ana Isip's work can be found in private collections worldwide. Having participated in about 23 art exhibits, she is currently recognized for her signature painting style of doll-like portraits. “Those big, expressive eyes speak to me and inspire me to create more art,” says Ana.

Having explored the artistic journey of Ana Isip, how do painters like her nurture their creative selves amidst the demands of their craft? Delving deeper into Ana's life as an artist, we had the opportunity to ask her directly how she nurtures her inner artist and sustains her creative spirit amid the challenges and responsibilities of her profession.

Harmony of Body and Spirit

The painter's body and spirit must move in harmony. From workouts and nature walks to spending time with family and playing with her dogs, Ana engages in activities that invigorate her senses and awaken dormant energies within. Through movement, she unlocks the flow of creativity, infusing her work with vitality and dynamism.

Cultivating a Garden of Ideas

Ana's artistic core thrives on her unwavering commitment to authenticity, a quality seamlessly intertwined with her passions for coffee and music. Preferring her coffee brewed in a French press—black, sans sucre—she savors each sip as a ritual complementing her creative process. This choice of beverage not only aligns with her keto diet, supporting her weight management and energy levels but also reflects her mindful approach to life.

In tandem, her musical preferences—rock and alternative, featuring bands like Paramore and Foo Fighters—provide the soundtrack to her creative endeavors, infusing her artistic flow with a distinctive rhythm and energy. Through meditation and introspection, Ana nurtures a profound connection with her inner self, quieting the clamor of the external world to embrace the whispers of inspiration within.

Embarking on a Path to Mindfulness

Ana maintains a strict no-procrastination policy, steering clear of distractions like overindulging in her favorite TV series to nurture her creative flow. She prioritizes weekend family time and leads a prayerful life, instilling a sense of gratitude and spiritual grounding in her household. This harmonious equilibrium between her artistic endeavors and familial duties allows Ana to thrive in both spheres of her life.

Despite completing numerous commissions for notable clients like Rivermaya's bassist Nathan Azarcon and various groups of families and strangers, Ana embraces curiosity with childlike wonder, allowing her mind to wander freely in search of inspiration. “Art is an everyday learning process, so I always try to reinvent myself,” says Ana. In this fertile soil of imagination, ideas take root and flourish, giving rise to masterpieces yet to be conceived.