The Art of Repetition: Why Doing the Same Thing Over and Over Fuels Creativity

Repetition gets a bad reputation. It’s often associated with monotony, stagnation, and a lack of originality. But in art, repetition isn’t a trap—it’s a tool.

Repetition is how we refine skills, develop style, and discover deeper meaning in our work. It’s how artists evolve, musicians master their craft, and writers find their voice. Instead of resisting it, embracing repetition can be one of the most powerful things you do for your creativity.

After repeating one of my favourite drawings in a new medium, alkyd paint, I decided to delve into why repetition is important. Here is why…

Why Repetition Matters in Art

1. Repetition Builds Mastery

The first time you try something, it’s rough. The tenth time? Better. The hundredth? Something new emerges. Picasso didn’t paint his masterpieces in a day—he made thousands of sketches, refining his technique over time. Every great artist, from Da Vinci to Beyoncé, has relied on repetition to get where they are.

The more you repeat a skill, the more it becomes second nature. Repetition frees your mind from the technical struggle so you can focus on expression.

2. Repetition Reveals Patterns

Your artistic voice isn’t something you “find” once—it’s something that emerges through repetition (see also my blog post on finding your artistic voice). When you create over and over again, patterns start to surface. Maybe you always gravitate toward a certain color palette, a specific chord progression, a recurring theme in your writing.

These patterns aren’t accidental. They’re your artistic DNA revealing itself. The more you repeat, the clearer your voice becomes.

3. Repetition Creates Depth

Repetition isn’t about making the same thing—it’s about making something deeper. Monet painted the same water lilies over 250 times, yet each version feels different. Writers revisit the same themes in new ways. Musicians play the same notes with new emotion.

By repeating an idea, you get past the surface and explore the nuances underneath. Repetition isn’t redundancy—it’s refinement.

4. Repetition Breaks Creative Blocks

We often think inspiration should strike like lightning, but the truth is, creativity comes from action. When you’re stuck, repeating a process—sketching, freewriting, improvising—helps you push through the block.

The more you create, the more momentum you build. And momentum is the secret weapon of every prolific artist.

How to Use Repetition in Your Creative Process

• Commit to a Daily Practice – Even 10 minutes a day adds up. The more you show up, the stronger your work becomes.

• Revisit Old Ideas – Instead of constantly chasing something “new,” try refining what you’ve already created.

• Embrace Imperfection – Every repetition teaches you something, even the bad ones.

• Experiment Within the Repetition – Change one element each time—a new brushstroke, a different word choice, a fresh melody. Small tweaks lead to big discoveries.

Repetition Isn’t the Enemy—It’s the Path

Repetition isn’t about copying yourself. It’s about digging deeper, sharpening your instincts, and discovering the art within the art. It’s how raw ideas transform into something meaningful.

So don’t fear doing the same thing again. Every time you repeat, you’re not staying still—you’re evolving.

Keep going. Keep repeating. And watch your art transform.

Follow for more details,

.M.