Why Art Journaling? Rediscovering Creativity and Healing Through Self-Expression

Feeling stuck creatively is something many artists experience. Back in 2018, I found myself in this very situation. I was several years into running my Etsy store, Art and Arrow, where I had poured countless hours into creating custom orders and personalized gifts. Although I loved providing art to others, it left me feeling empty. I felt like I had lost my identity as an artist and couldn't remember the last time I created something just for me. That's when I stumbled upon the concept of art journaling—and it changed everything.

Discovering Art Journaling

At first, the idea of art journaling seemed like a breath of fresh air but I didn't really know what to expect. I purchased a mixed media art journal and started a Pinterest board filled with inspiring art journal ideas and spreads. Initially, my pages were quite simple. I was still getting my feet wet. However, after completing five or six spreads, something shifted inside me. A flood of creativity poured out, and I was suddenly filling page after page with paintings, drawings, and mixed media collages, all made for the sheer joy of creating.

A recent art journal spread filled with vibrant stickers and colorful ephemera.

For the first time in years, I stopped worrying about whether my creations would sell or if they were perfect. I didn’t even care if anyone else ever saw them! I just lost myself in the process—creating for the sake of my own enjoyment. That feeling of freedom transformed my artistic journey and rejuvenated my soul.

Creative Expansion After Struggles

As I dove deeper into art journaling, my artistic identity began to reclaim its space. It took me two years to finish my first art journal, but the sense of accomplishment was unlike any other. This newfound relationship with my artistry made me realize how important it is to create without constraints. My second journal took just one year to finish and was a complete transformation, bursting with my own ideas and designs!

A photo of my art workspace ready for creative adventures.

Art journaling became more than just a creative outlet; it was a way for me to express my emotions and process my thoughts. Whether I was feeling anxious or elated, stressed or excited, translating those feelings into visual art allowed me to navigate my mental landscapes effectively.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Art Journaling

Art journaling has proven to be a therapeutic escape for me. I genuinely believe that, had I not established the creative habit when I did, my mental health would have taken a severe hit during the Covid quarantine and all the uncertainties of 2020. Engaging with my journal provided me with a coping mechanism—an effective tool for relieving stress, processing anxiety, and expressing my feelings.

Even now, if I miss a few days of working in my journal, I can distinctly feel the difference. It's as if my mind becomes cluttered without that creative release. Not everyone may find solace in the same creative processes, but art journaling has undoubtedly been a guiding light for me.

Sharing the Joy of Art Journaling

Realizing how transformative art journaling was for me, I felt compelled to share my journey with others. In 2022, I launched The Creative Arrow as a private Facebook group. This space became a community for crafty individuals seeking inspiration, encouragement, and camaraderie. It was heartwarming to see others rediscover their passion for creativity just as I had.

In 2023, I took it a step further by launching a YouTube channel to give everyone a glimpse into my artistic process, sharing tips and techniques for art journaling. Visual examples proved to be powerful in inspiring others, and the feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.

Expanding Horizons: In-Person Classes

This year, I’m excited to take The Creative Arrow to new heights by offering in-person art journal classes in Peoria, IL. The idea of connecting with fellow creatives face-to-face is exhilarating, and I am so excited to be able to provide an opportunity for others to come together and explore their artistic side openly.

Additionally, I plan to launch an online art journal class this spring. This will ensure accessibility for those unable to join in-person sessions. I hope to reach people from all different kinds of backgrounds, giving them the tools they need to start their own art journaling habit.

A photo of students from my first in-person art journaling class.

Why You Should Consider Art Journaling

If you’ve felt the itch to create but don't know where to start, art journaling may be the perfect answer. Here are a few reasons to consider giving it a shot:

• Freedom of Expression: There are no rules in art journaling! You can express yourself however you wish, without worrying about judgment or perfection.

• Therapeutic Benefits: As mentioned, this form of art can serve as an effective outlet for your emotions. Many find it calming and beneficial for mental health.

• Community Connection: Engaging with others who share your interests can enhance your experience and provide additional motivation.

• Rediscovery of Yourself: You may find that through art journaling, you rekindle the passion that made you fall in love with creating in the first place.

  
  

In wrapping up my journey with art journaling, I encourage anyone reading this to give it a try. It’s a therapeutic and enriching practice that not only boosted my creativity but also reignited my passion for art. If you already have an art journal or are just starting, I would love to hear about your experiences. Let’s celebrate the artistic journeys we each embark on!

Until next time, create, share, and repeat!