This is detail from an in-process page inside my Gratitude Journal (the entire spread is pictured at the left). Done mostly in acrylic paint, it includes a word ticket given me by a student. At our last grownUPs Journal class, participants were given three word tickets. They labeled objects with their tickets, and I was tagged "Fortunately." One of the best gifts ever - thank you Toni!!
I've been a daily painter since 2006. That's a LOT of paintings to come across my easel. And a LOT of pressure to stay fresh, every day (we're not talking showering, kiddos!).
One of the creative habits I picked up shortly after making my daily painting pledge was that of art journaling. The idea behind art, or creative, journaling is that it is part sketchbook part diary part science lab with art materials. Anything goes!
I thought it would be healthy for me to have a place to work out frustrations or anxieties and be able to make marks without any necessary purpose. What I didn't realize is exactly HOW beneficial it actually is - journaling is a key element to managing stress and staying in tune with my heart.
As the years progressed, I offered journal classes locally, first to children, then most recently to adults. This summer I expanded more, leading an international group of journalers through my first online workshop. Next month I'm teaching four weekly sessions through my local community center.
And although I'm teaching, I'm also still learning. My students teach me so much with each class, and I actively take courses with other artists. I even have a traveling journal survival kit. Journaling has become a passion!
What's your creative outlet? I'd love to hear about it!
Fondly,
Kim, who's studio has turned into a science lab for art materials - there's no bubbling volcano, but I do have puddles of homemade alcohol inks and pipettes lying about
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Learn More
You don't have to be an artist in order to be an art journaler. I kid you not - you just need some basic motor skills, like holding a pencil and manipulating scissors and a glue stick. Here's some more info to get you started:
Do a google search, and see what else you can discover!
I also run workshops for classrooms, homeschool children, youth groups, parties, or other creatives.
Feel free to email me for class info - children's classes are on Sunday afternoons, grownUPs meet the 3rd Thursday of each month, and community classes are seasonal, during the days on Wednesdays.
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