Finding the Muse

Inspiration for an artist or designer can come from anywhere. I have to admit that sometimes I let the arts take a backseat to school, work, and life.
In those things though inspiration does strike.
My friends and I have found ourselves gathering up on Sunday evening to play a round of Dungeons and Dragons (2nd edition.... no I don't care much for newer versions)
This has always been a safety net for inspiration. Its essence is a story telling game. Players and game masters contribute to tales of (generally speaking) medieval fantasy.

This translates into hours of character sketches, writing of various tales, background stories, and artwork. It really is a simmering pot of inspiration.
If you haven't tried it, cast aside your social fears of being a nerd and step into the world of dragons and fantasy.
When you step back to the studio, you will find it has affected your work in a new light. It allows you to think outside the box, consider story lines of people you meet. What brought them right here, right now?

Why not... it's better than watching Lord of the Rings, and more enlightening than still life.