Some people are happy to express themselves through their art and leave it at that. Which is perfectly fine. The process of creating after all is such a release of inner self, often that is all that is needed. Words cannot capture in the way that the images can.

When I create and express through art sometimes I like to just sit with what I see take it in visually feel it in my being observe its effects on me without words, after all a picture is worth a thousand words right? Cliché I know but there is some truth to that.

However there at other times that when I look at my art afterward I’m left with more questions than I began with. There is a feeling of incompleteness that I am left with, even though I have a deep sense that the piece I’ve worked is done.

It is at these times that I feel the need to write about my experience of my art. I might focus on one part and begin to write what comes to mind in a free associative fashion reminiscent of Freud. I just write until I feel done. Or until I feel satisfied that I have a better sense of the art I’ve created.

Of course, it’s not always about interpreting my art but more so finding meaning of the overall experience; not what does it mean but what does this mean for me. Exploring this way may point me to next steps. Writing becomes a way to help me clarify what I see. It can help me bring closure to my experience by connecting me on a deeper level.

There is no one right way. It’s up to you to decide for yourself what helps you enhance your creative connection and expression of self.

Need some guidance on how to get started with Art Journaling? Join me online or in person for Art Journaling.  Click below to find out more!