Art Journals

Not the writing type eh? Excelled more in art class than in English? Well, just because writing doesn’t fit your style doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the benefits of journaling. An art journal might be just what you need to get started.

Just like other journals, an art journal is a way to express yourself. Using images, you can still record your mind, emotions and life events.

Use whatever medium is most enjoyable and convenient. I recommend a sketchbook small enough to fit in your back pack so it’s easy to take with you.

As you’re getting started, keep it simple. I suggest drawing images about the most memorable part of your day. You could even draw one scene, for example, a concert you went to. Or, do small sketches like a great meal, the sunset or a friend you hung out with.

Once you have the hang of that, move on to drawing your emotions. It’s a bit abstract, but try to depict your emotions using different artistic methods. Anger might be shown by drawing a jagged mountain with ominous storm clouds looming over them and happiness might be a bird singing during a sunrise.

Although it’s an art journal, I also recommend writing a few sentences explaining what emotion the picture is supposed to display. You can even write why you chose those images if you think you’ll have trouble remembering them.

Besides simply being a tool to express yourself and record your life, an art journal should be enjoyable, relaxing and improve your art skills. Who knows, maybe you will build up a sweet portfolio and get some of your drawings framed or sold.