A Therapeutic Journey Through Art Journaling
Updated: Sep 7
Every now and then, I take a break from creating "things" and indulge in a little art journaling just for myself. This isn't about producing a card or a notepad; it's about creating a small piece of art in a book. Sometimes I film the process for YouTube, but if I forget to turn on the camera, that's perfectly fine.
My Art Journaling Process
This week, I worked in my Arden Creative Studio small art journal. I gathered various ephemera from the Field Notes and Garden Chronicles collections. I also included some sticker books, rub-ons, and the Lindy's Gang Magicals Field Notes set. After selecting the ephemera and laser cuts I wanted to use, I chose the Magicals that would complement my design.
I activated the Peachy Keen Peach and Grazing Grasshopper colours with a bit of water. Using a paintbrush, I gently moved the colours around, being careful not to mix them too much. I dried each layer with a heat tool before adding the next colour.
I typically use stamps to add texture to the background. However, this time, I opted for the Letter Box Collage stencil with Pumice Stone Distress Ink. This choice added a unique touch to my page.
Once I was happy with my layout and had glued my pieces down, I selected some words from one of the ephemera packs to enhance my design.
The final touch was to add highlights using gold mica powder. I mixed Cosmic Shimmer Pixie Powders with a little water and applied them over the journal pages with a paintbrush.
And that's it! A delightful session of art playtime with no other purpose than to enjoy the process of working with paper and colour. It’s incredibly therapeutic and easy to do.
Why Art Journaling is Beneficial
Art journaling is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a form of self-care. Engaging in this practice allows me to express my thoughts and feelings without judgment. It’s a space where I can explore my creativity freely.
The Therapeutic Effects of Creating
Creating art has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. When I immerse myself in my art journal, I find a sense of calm. The act of painting, gluing, and arranging elements is meditative. It helps me disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Finding Inspiration
Inspiration can come from anywhere. Whether it's a beautiful sunset, a quote that resonates, or simply the colours around me, I find that keeping an open mind allows for endless creative possibilities. I often look through magazines, nature, or even my own previous works for ideas.
Connecting with Others
Art journaling can also be a wonderful way to connect with others. Sharing my creations on platforms like YouTube allows me to engage with a community of like-minded individuals. We inspire each other and share tips and techniques that enhance our craft.
Tips for Getting Started with Art Journaling
If you're new to art journaling, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Choose Your Journal: Find a journal that feels right for you. It can be small or large, with blank pages or prompts.
Gather Supplies: Collect a variety of materials such as paints, markers, stickers, and ephemera. You don’t need to have everything at once; start with what you have.
Set Aside Time: Dedicate time to your art journaling practice. It could be as little as 10 minutes or as long as an hour. The key is to make it a regular part of your routine.
Let Go of Perfection: Remember, there is no right or wrong in art journaling. Allow yourself to create freely without the pressure of perfection.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new techniques or materials. The beauty of art journaling lies in exploration.
Conclusion
Art journaling is a fulfilling and enjoyable practice that allows me to express myself creatively. Whether I'm using vibrant colours or simple words, each page tells a story. If you’re looking for a way to unwind and explore your artistic side, I encourage you to give it a try.
If you'd like to see the full process video, I have uploaded it to my YouTube channel.
That's all for today's blog. Have a wonderful week!
🤗💙
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