Sounds Like Summer: Creating the Perfect Playlist for Making Art

Summer has a vibe all its own... lazy days, long evenings, and sunlight that feels like it lasts forever. It’s a season that practically begs for creativity, and one of the best ways to tap into your artistic side is by pairing your art-making with a summer-inspired playlist. Music sets the mood, stirs emotions, and helps you tune into your imagination. Whether you're painting, doodling, sculpting, or journaling, the right soundtrack can take your creativity to the next level.

Why Music and Art Go Hand in Hand
Music does more than just fill the background, it actually activates different parts of your brain, sparking emotion, boosting focus, and encouraging flow. If you've ever found yourself completely zoned in while listening to your favorite song and working with your hands, you know the magic. The right rhythm can help steady your brushstrokes, get you past creative blocks, and keep you energized through long sessions.

Some songs make you want to paint big and bold, others might have you working in tiny, delicate details. Music helps you move, mentally and physically, through your creative process.


How to Build Your Summer Art Playlist
Think of your summer art playlist as a portable mood board. Here’s how to build one that fuels your creativity all season long:

1. Start with Your Vibe
Are you dreaming of beach days and salty air? Want to capture the golden glow of sunset? Or are you feeling playful, colorful, and bold?
Match your playlist to your artistic mood.
Chill & Dreamy: Lo-fi beats, acoustic guitar, or soft indie vocals are perfect for watercolors, journaling, or reflective sketching.
Bright & Energetic: Upbeat pop, funk, and feel-good anthems can help you dive into bold paintings, mixed media, or large-scale projects.
Focused & Flowing: Instrumental tracks, ambient electronica, or cinematic scores help create a calm, steady focus for detailed work or long creative sessions.


2. Include a Few Nostalgic Summer Jams
Music can unlock memories and emotions—both powerful tools for any artist. Throw in some classics that remind you of childhood summers, family road trips, or long afternoons in the sun. These songs might not be "about" art, but they’ll help connect you to the feelings you want to express.



3. Mix in New Sounds
Give your creativity a fresh boost by discovering new artists or genres you haven’t tried before. Exploring new music can help open up your mind to new creative ideas. Try global sounds, acoustic remixes, or even jazz if it’s out of your usual rotation.


Playlist Ideas to Get You Started
Need a few sparks to build your summer art playlist? Here’s a mini mood board of sound:
Golden Hour Painting
“Sunflower” – Post Malone & Swae Lee
“Electric Feel” – MGMT
“Golden” – Harry Styles
“Dog Days Are Over” – Florence + The Machine
Laid-Back Creativity
“Peach” – Kevin Abstract
“Banana Pancakes” – Jack Johnson
“Lover Is a Day” – Cuco
“Weightless” – Marconi Union (for ambient calm)
Summer Energy & Color
“Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina & The Waves
“Levitating” – Dua Lipa
“Uptown Funk” – Bruno Mars
“Can’t Stop the Feeling” – Justin Timberlake

Let Music Be Your Muse
There’s something about summer that makes us want to create—to capture that feeling of freedom, light, and play. So grab your favorite art supplies, hit play on a sun-drenched playlist, and let the music carry you into your next masterpiece.
Your studio is your stage. Your canvas is your soundtrack.
Now go make some art that sounds like summer.

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