Art Journals and Handmade Books

My journal is where I heal, where I grow, where I recreate myself, from the inside out. I scream into my journal. I cry into my journal. I laugh into my journal. I dance, celebrate life, mourn loss, gather skills, both personal and artistic, get angry...and quietly detox my mind and defuse the anxiety that can so often build up in my Soul. Creating is a need...like food or breath, at least, for me.

When I am creating, there is a flush of energy that is almost intoxicating. Sometimes that "flush" is like a wave that hits out of nowhere and I do my best to catch it and ride it to whatever distant shore it is taking me, and though I may be surprised by the destination, I am NEVER disappointed...and I await the next wave with joyful anticipation.

There are so many, little moments that can be used for creativity and you don't need all the latest gadgets or expensive supplies. Just a pen...a napkin....and a hunger to express yourself. Now, it's very easy to have slightly more then a pen and a napkin. You can add a little color with a crayon or two. A pencil, with an eraser gives you even more options. Small sketch pads can be found at discount stores along with colored markers, sparkly paint, stickers...and the list goes on. But really, there's no need to way yourself down, too much. Fleeting moments of creativity can be enjoyed with very limited supplies and in fact, I find it to be a fun exercise to see just how creative I can get with the least amount of materials.

This Lens is dedicated to Art Journaling and the making of hand made books. I'll be sharing what I learn, as I go along on this adventure.