First Steps to Starting an Art Journal - a playlist, a dance practice, a movement practice, a magic spell…
Step 1: Get a Journal. You can purchase a mixed-media or watercolor journal. You can find one at a local art store or order online from places like Dick Blick. Alternatively, you can find suitable items at thrift stores. I do like Canson Mixed Media Journal or Strathmore 500 Series Visual Mixed Media Journal or something like this https://www.jerrysartarama.com/bee-dlx-mixmed-6x12-pad-808
Pay attention to the weight of the paper. Ensure it’s suitable for watercolor or mixed media, designed to handle glue, water, and paint without buckling. If you’re new to art, a slight buckling might still happen, so don’t worry—embrace the process!
Step 2: Gather Your Materials. Do you have markers, pens, pencils, watercolors, paints, glue, tape, old magazines, or random items you’ve meant to toss out? Gather them all in one spot—your art journal space. A glue gun is also a fun tool to have!
Here are some other ideas for art supplies:
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Color Pencils
Sargent Art Watercolor Crayons
https://www.jerrysartarama.com/holbein-designer-gouache-15ml-set-5-primary-colors-v37426 (gouache) - I choose to avoid acrylic because of the plastic
Step 3: Create Your Space. If you like, light a candle or incense to set the mood. Open your journal to the first page. Place your hands on it and ask yourself, “What is already here that I’d like to express or explore?” By "here," I mean within you—your body, mind, thoughts, and feelings. There’s no right or wrong.
Start writing. Fill the page, rotate it 90 degrees, and write over what you wrote. Continue until the words overlap and become unreadable. Let everything flow without editing (check out my example above. In the image, you will see this kind of text). Remember, no one else will ever read this—unless they’re a forensic scientist, and even then, why would they care about your inner thoughts?
Step 4: Get Messy and Have Fun. Now, grab some paint, markers, and glue. Layer it over what you’ve written. There’s no right or wrong—pick colors that feel right for you in the moment. Let your creativity take over!
Step 5: Share and Ask Questions. I’m here to support you. Please feel free to reach out, and I will respond within two business days. I’m excited to help you stay committed to this process. You’ll soon crave this time for yourself. You can even get your family involved if you want! Sharing with friends and family is a great way to stay accountable.
Also, you can join this group, filled with other creative professionals and therapists, and you are welcome (unless you are a current client due to confidentiality boundaries).
https://calendly.com/bridgetexpressivearts/gettoknowyou or …buy this 50-minute session now. I hope to get to know you more soon!