Keeping an artist journal can have a big payoff for any aspiring artist. “Keeping”, in this case, means capturing moments of your life’s journey with regularity. Doing it takes discipline but it soon becomes a habit that is also a pleasure and a valuable tool. I have been doing it for over 10 years now and have some twenty or more of these little books in various sizes, colors and shapes on my studio shelf. They are much more than sketch books. I have set no limitations on what I can put into them. My journals are filled with my deepest thoughts, my dearest desires, ideas for new paintings, drawings of things I see, drawings from my imagination, inspiring quotes, mindless doodling, and lists of things to do. I include photos of completed paintings next to the idea that inspired it, and pictures of other artist’s paintings that inspire me. This “keeping” has become an important tool in my creative journey. It teaches me about myself and clarifies my intentions and desires for both my artwork and my life. My journals give me a documented history of my journey and growth as an artist. Even when I cannot get to my studio because life gets in the way, I can take a few minutes to add something to my artist journal. I know that when I do get to my studio, I will have a wealth of information on which to draw authentic inspiration.
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