For every project, there is a starting and ending point. While it can be difficult to identify sources that can consistently be used for inspiration, very often artists rely upon certain methods that have worked for them in the past. If the project has been clearly outlined, a reference will present itself and serve as a springboard for future ideas. 
An individual object might serve as a focal point around which a broader concept can be expanded upon. In the design at right I sought to emphasize the importance and value of Time, and so the clock face was moved front and center. Since there would be no way to define how each individual spent his or her time in the course of a day, the supporting background elements could not be clearly defined, nor would they have to be literal. Hence, I opted for watercolor, which blends all defining lines and allows the composition to take the form that is relevant to the viewer. In other words, it becomes what you want it to be.
A graphic design might develop as a derivative of a common theme such as Nature, but sometimes inspiration percolates down from more unlikely sources. The contrast between an item’s intended appearance (such as when it is new) and its eventual form after many years without use can be striking. Zooming in close on a particular object provides an interesting perspective due to the level of detail. If, seconds later, your brain realizes that the image is just a portion of a much larger form, then your previous ideas are re-written.
Inspiration can be found in angles and lines. The wonder and perfection of symmetry awakens us to the heightened awareness of how often this design presents itself both in the natural and material world. Anyone who attempts to draw freehand can attest to how difficult this property can be to emulate. Eraser, anyone?
The important thing should be that we continuously foster inquisitiveness and our talents of observation. These allow inspiration to be born. Using a recipe created by someone else still creates a dish that contains a variation from the original, whether it was intended or not. Innovation can only come from someone’s attempt to improve upon a common standard. Design begins from many different sources. If we push ourselves to try new things and learn new methods, the end result will hopefully be inspirational to others.