An art journaling perspective.
(I just added summer pages to the tab *art + journal* above)
I typically start my paintings with a simple sketch. A few lines and a hint of color. I often don't understand the meanings behind the images, I have just trusted that I will understand as the paint dries. I like it that way.
I have learned however that my emotional perspectives do influence my finished work. If I sit with my paints too long I will overwork things -- a sign of "inner working" something?
When the colors are bright and light in my painting, and I choose not to undo or layer over things too much, I obviously feel unburdened? Ready and happy to move on to the next piece?
I really think it is a miracle to have a *visual image of something* and to find ways to layer it in ink and paint. I am a simple photographer, someone who sees an image, frames it, and captures it. I haven't encountered a creative medium that is so imaginative and organic. No pattern to purchase and follow? No page design and colors to adhere to? No, this is such a different process than that.
If you have you tried art journaling, how would you describe it?
Cathartic healing?
Pouring out in paint?
Journaling in a very messy way?
Spilling out those cluttered heart closets?
Yes and amen to that...
Whatever it is, it is a good friend right now. I have benefited from its healing touch on my life. It is zen-like in the way it helps me stay calm. After a stressful day, it is a great reward.
For me it has also been a place of honesty and growth. Of seeing life as it is (and was) and bringing a focal point to what is now. Doesn't that sound good?
Really if you haven't tried it, it's time to pull out a sketch pad and go for it~
(Best of all, it is a great distraction when the sheep are away)
With a fresh coat of
His grace & peace,
jj
Beautiful, as always.
ReplyDeleteI haven't started art journaling yet, but my journal is on it's way! Anxiously awaiting for it to appear in my mail box. :)
As you said, I hope it's a healing process for me. Sometimes I feel like I don't have any way to express myself, my fears, anger, love, happiness... So the journal will help me to pour my heart out, one page at a time.
Thank you for being an inspiration.
I love looking at your art journal and seeing your overflowing creativity but it's not for me ;-)
ReplyDeletethere's a lot of creativity in my head but it doesn't translate to my fingers!
you have a beautiful blog. and your photographs are amazing.
ReplyDeletehave a wonderful day
hanlie
every time you post one of your art journal entries, I am in awe all over again! I actually used inspiration from your house piece (the way you created leafy trees with swirls) in a She Art piece I made for my mother's birthday. Posted in the She Art flikr gallery.
ReplyDeleteLove your blog. I don't know what I love better, your art or the little sheep faces. Wait. Wait, yes I do. The little sheep faces. Or maybe...your art. Or the sheep.. or...
ReplyDeleteLove it all!! - Thanks for starting my morning out. - Kathy
Just started art journaling this May after taking an on line class and it is so freeing (is that a word?) - thanks for your encouragement.
ReplyDeleteI love this post, and your page as well. I have tried art journaling in the past. Didn't work, bought LOADS of supplies to do it...but didn't "feel" it. I even took an online class...
ReplyDeleteBut lately my art has changed direction, I took Brave Girl and She Art workshops...and I am loving this new turn. I think I will go and try again. Maybe I will "feel" it this time :)
I wish I could sit at your table, watch and learn, soak in the process, the process of getting it out, putting it in color and words and images. Sounds so freeing. Yet still scary. I will look at your art journal tab and mabe at the e-classes Kathy ^ said she took. Might be a good "mommy thing" to do. Thank you for such a happy place to visit.
ReplyDeleteI was on the fence about taking the 3 hearts class (I missed the first round) but after seeing the post Christy did featuring your journal page, I was so inspired & excited to start journaling again, I signed up! I love your style & colors-you are talented and inspiring (& I love the little lambs).
ReplyDeletesheilah
Junelle, I wish I could click "agree" and "like" and "love" on the comments shared above because I so agree, like and love what they had to say! You have me inspired to create an art journal...something I've never done. And am so looking forward to. Your blog is one of my favorite places to visit, to linger . . . like a favorite boutique, bookstore or coffee shop with shelves and walls lined and decorated with fascination of words, art, pictures and flavor. Just a delicious place to be.
ReplyDeleteMy art journal is all the things you said, Junelle. It is the overflow of my heart (or maybe part of my heart you can hold in your hand?), the questions, fear, gratitude, inspiration.
ReplyDeleteYour pages are so lovely, so YOU, Junelle. I have been inspired by every bit you have shared!
I kept scanning your pictures over and over again, wanting to drink in the details. I am finding later that I have been pulling back from blogging into my first love which is journalling and beginning to get REALLY HONEST again. It is doing my soul good...
ReplyDeleteOne of the things that I love most about your art is the texture and depth you create. I'm curious - in the 3rd photo down... the left side, how do you create those "marks" (for lack of a better word)? They add SO much to your work. (which I adore, by the way!)
ReplyDelete