The Basics of Art Journaling: A Creative Path to Self-Expression
Discover how to combine art and journaling for emotional exploration, mindfulness, and personal growth.
I began art journaling during the final year of my Bhakti Yoga path, a year marked by immense change and inner turmoil. It was a very challenging time of feeling so lost and disconnected. I was about 28 (back in 2017) and unhappy with how things were unfolding and unsure of who I truly was. I hadn’t picked up a pencil or drawn for pure joy in years, and the spiritual community I once felt so deeply connected to now felt distant. I also found myself torn between the desire to start a family, despite having vowed to remain single and celibate on my spiritual journey.
What helped me navigate this rough patch was art journaling. With each entry, I found a way to connect to the many layers of myself, my emotions, my desires, my struggles, and through this creative process, my vision began to clear. I gained a deeper confidence in my decision to step away from the path that no longer served me.
I’ll never forget the moment after I announced my decision to everyone. My flatmate, a fellow sister on the same path, cried, telling me, “How could you ever be happy without Guru’s light?” I didn’t respond, because inside, I was experiencing a deep joy and connection that I hadn’t had for a long time that year. What she said didn’t resonate with my truth. Through art journaling, I rediscovered so many truths about myself, truths that had long been hidden and ignored. Art journaling became a powerful practice, alongside my daily meditation, that helped me stay connected with my Self.
What is Art Journaling?
Art journaling is a creative practice that combines art and, at times, writing in a journal format. It allows individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences visually, often using a mix of doodling, drawing, painting, collage, stamping, and other mixed-media techniques. Written words or reflections are often included, but they are optional, not a requirement.
Benefits of Art Journaling
Self-expression: Art journaling is a powerful outlet for expressing emotions, ideas, and experiences that may be difficult to communicate through words alone.
Stress relief: Engaging in creative activities can lower stress and promote relaxation, helping individuals process emotions in a calming way.
Creativity: It encourages free-flowing creativity without the pressure of creating something "perfect," allowing you to explore new ideas and artistic techniques.
Emotional healing: Journaling and creating art can help individuals work through personal challenges, trauma, or unresolved emotions in a safe space.
Mindfulness: The practice encourages being present in the moment, helping to reduce anxiety and enhance self-awareness.
Improved mental clarity: Art journaling can help you clarify your thoughts and goals, aiding in problem-solving and decision-making.
Personal growth: It promotes reflection and self-discovery, leading to personal insights and growth over time.
What We Do in Our Art Journaling Workshop (1.5 - 2 Hours)
In our Art Journaling Workshop, we create a safe, welcoming space where creativity flows freely, and participants can explore their emotions and ideas through both art and words. The session is designed to nurture self-expression, personal growth, and mindfulness, using a variety of creative prompts and techniques. Here’s what you can expect during the workshop:
1. Intention Setting (10-15 Minutes)
We begin by setting the tone for the session through intention setting. This moment allows each participant to pause, reflect, and focus on what they hope to achieve during the workshop. Whether it’s self-discovery, emotional release, or simply enjoying the process of creating, we take a few moments to clarify our goals for the session. This intention helps guide the creative journey and gives the session a meaningful, personal focus.
2. Warm-Up Exercise (5 Minutes)
To ease into the creative process, we start with a quick warm-up exercise. This simple 5-minute activity is designed to relax the mind, loosen up the body, and get those creative juices flowing. It could be something as simple as drawing squiggles, creating a color palette based on emotions, or doing an intuitive doodle. The goal is to break through any initial resistance and get participants in the zone, allowing for a more fluid and enjoyable experience throughout the workshop.
3. Sharing the Theme, Prompts, and Techniques (5 Minutes)
After the warm-up, we dive into the heart of the session by introducing the theme of the workshop. This could be a general concept such as “Exploring Emotions” or a more specific prompt like “Visioning Your Future.” Along with the theme, we share a selection of creative prompts and techniques that participants can use in their art journals. These could include instructions on using mixed media, layering techniques, or incorporating symbolic imagery into the work. Participants are encouraged to experiment with different styles, materials, and ideas to create a piece that resonates with them personally.
4. Creating Time (60+ Minutes)
Once the prompts and techniques are introduced, participants have the majority of the session to work on their art journals. This is a time for personal reflection, creative exploration, and hands-on expression. While creating, participants can experiment with colors, textures, and words that feel right for them. Facilitators are available to offer guidance, suggestions, and encouragement, but the emphasis is on following your own instincts and creative flow.
5. Circle Sharing (Optional) (15-20 Minutes)
At the end of the session, we come together for a circle sharing. This is an optional, open space where participants can choose to share their artwork, thoughts, and experiences from the session. It's a chance to connect with others, gain insights from different perspectives, and celebrate the diversity of creative expression. There’s no pressure to share, as this is a personal and intimate moment, but the sharing circle can provide a sense of community and support, making the experience even more meaning.
By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of yourself, a new creative tool in your toolkit, and perhaps a renewed sense of inspiration and mindfulness. Whether you're new to art journaling or an experienced creator, the space we create is all about exploration, self-expression, and fun!
Sample of Our Favourite Basic Prompts for Art Journalling
At The Grounded Circle, we host regular Art Journalling workshops for adults and young adults. Check out all of our events here.