What is Art Journalling?

christenevanwyk0
Feb 28
2 min read

Art journaling has become one of my favourite ways to express myself. It’s a beautiful blend of visual art and written reflection, allowing me to pour my thoughts, emotions, and experiences onto a page in a way that feels raw and real. Unlike traditional journaling, where words take center stage, art journaling lets me communicate beyond language—through colour, texture, and imagery.

The Beauty of an Art Journal

My art journal is my personal sanctuary—there are no rules, no pressure, and definitely no need for perfection. Each page tells a story, reflecting the mood and energy I bring to it. Some days, I fill the pages with bold strokes of colour and layers of collage, while other days, I simply scribble some thoughts next to a delicate sketch. It’s an ever-evolving canvas of my inner world.

Why I Love Art Journaling

Everyone has their own reasons for art journaling, and for me, it’s become a powerful tool for:

Self-Expression – It gives me a space where I can be truly myself, without judgment or expectations.
Therapeutic Benefits – There’s something incredibly soothing about getting lost in the process. I find that even just a few minutes of creating helps me feel more grounded and centered.
Personal Growth – Looking back through my pages, I can see how much I’ve evolved, not just artistically, but emotionally and mentally as well.
Creative Freedom – I love the freedom to experiment without fear. It helps me break through creative blocks and discover new ideas.
Memory Keeping – My art journal captures moments, emotions, and reflections in a way that words alone never could.

How You Can Start Your Own Art Journal

Starting an art journal is easier than you might think! Here’s what helped me when I was just beginning:

Gather Some Supplies – You don’t need anything fancy. A blank notebook, pens, paint, glue, and a few scraps of paper are more than enough.
Let Go of Perfection – The magic happens when you allow yourself to create without overthinking. There’s no right or wrong way to do this.
Experiment with Different Techniques – I love trying new things—watercolour washes, ink sketches, layering, stamping, and collage all add depth and personality to my pages.
Incorporate Words – Sometimes I add quotes, affirmations, or just a few personal thoughts alongside my artwork.
Make it a Habit – Whether it’s once a day or once a week, setting aside time for art journaling makes it an intentional and rewarding practice.

Final Thoughts

For me, art journaling is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to explore, heal, and grow. It’s a place where I can freely express who I am, without the constraints of perfection or expectation. Whether you use it for self-reflection, stress relief, or simply as a space to play and create, your art journal is uniquely yours.

So, why not give it a try? Grab a journal, some supplies, and just start. You might be surprised at what unfolds on the page!

Stay Inspired