The Ultimate Art Prompt List for Surface Designers
When you’re staring at the blank page (or screen!) it can feel really daunting to come up with a fresh new idea of what to draw.
Have you ever felt that way?
If so, no worries. I’ve got you covered!
In this post, I’m going to share 10 trend-forward art prompts to help you get out of a creative rut and start drawing right away. Plus, you’ll get a chance to unlock my vault of over 200+ drawing prompts and get a new one for free every week. Goodbye art block, hello strategic creativity!
Why Art Prompts?
Simply put, prompts give you an easy starting point while also inspiring you to step outside your comfort zone and explore trends you might not have considered before.
And, bonus! Aligning your artwork with current trends helps keep your portfolio fresh, relevant, and highly marketable. The more strategic work you have in your portfolio, the better your chances of getting it in licensed on products!
My trend-forward portfolio has been the key to getting my artwork licensed on over a million products worldwide. Get a new strategic drawing prompt from me every week, plus access the vault of over 200 prompts (and growing) by joining the free #CreateWithCatCoq challenge here!
Ten Art Prompts for Surface Designers
The beauty of art prompts is that you’re able to apply your own unique style when the prompt is generic enough.
I like to keep my prompts focused on trend-forward motifs with massive selling power.
These prompts below have all been top sellers for me in the past, and there are a mix of evergreen trends and current hot trends to help you build a balanced portfolio.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms have been a top trend for a couple years running. The mushroom designs in my portfolio are popping off and I keep getting more and more requests for funky ‘shrooms from licensing partners. I think this trend is here to stay for at least another year or two!
Space Cowgirl
Grab your rhinestone cowgirl hats and saddle up for this cosmic combo! Western themes are on the rise, but specifically paired with out-of-this-world space themes. This is what is considered a “hot trend” since it’s having a moment right now in pop culture, but it will likely die down more quickly than other more generic trends like florals, sunshine, or mushrooms.
Seaside
Seaside themes offer endless possibilities for art licensing. This theme is always popular since it evokes a sense of tranquility and escape!
Maximal Floral Pattern
Florals are always in style, but lately, maximalism is the vibe! Instead of your normal floral patterns, aim for bold blooms and color palettes that appeal to those with a “more is more” aesthetic.
Coquette Tea Party
Girlie motifs are having a huge moment right now. Bows, pastels, tea sets, and romantic iconography reminiscent of the Rococo period are trending in a big way. Go for an ultra-feminine aesthetic to tap into this trend!
Your Favorite Cocktail
Cocktails are a great choice for your next illustration project. Especially if they’re trend-forward ones like Aperol Spritzs or Espresso Martinis!
Citrus Fruit
Citrus is always in style. Almost any time I add a lemon or orange illustration to my portfolio, it immediately gets picked up for licensing. Trust me on this one, you want to draw some citrus!
Tropical Foliage
Tropical themes are another evergreen trend. The beauty of the tropics reminds us of our favorite vacation destinations and the vibrancy of the lush tropical jungle. You can’t go wrong adding this to your portfolio. I’d suggest starting with palm trees or monstera leaves for maximum selling potential!
Cherries
Cherries are everywhere these days, and I think they’re only going to continue to grow in popularity. Whether it’s a cherry pattern or a few decorative cherries on top of an intricately designed cake, you’ll be hitting on a major hot trend with this one!
Sunshine
Last but not least — Sunshine! This positive, uplifting motif is currently popular and fits well with a boho aesthetic. My Retro Sunshine illustration is one of my most licensed designs to date, and it keeps getting picked up on more and more products!
If you want to learn more about these trends, trend forecasting in general, and what’s currently trending right now, check out my free Trend Report with over 20 pages of trend guidance!
Want Even More Prompts? Unlock the Vault!
If you loved these ideas and want even more, I've got great news for you!
Every week, I send a brand new art prompt straight to your inbox through my free #CreateWithCatCoq challenge.
And when you sign up for the weekly prompt, you’ll instantly unlock the #CreateWithCatCoq Vault, filled with over 200 creative ideas from past challenges so you can keep the inspo flowing all year long.
Ready to get started?
