ART JOURNALING CLASSES
What is Art Journaling?
“The use of art mediums (paint, watercolor, collage, etc.) to visually express one's soul-felt emotions, thoughtful reflections and insights through created images and words.”
Do you find yourself occasionally feeling overwhelmed or “clogged up” inside due to the demands and struggles of life…both past and present. It’s easy to lose sight of the dreams and aspirations we hold dear when the drudgery of daily living consumes us.
Journaling is a spiritual practice that ushers us into the sacred space of listening to our souls. Here we can “unpack” our thoughts, emotions, perceptions and interpretations of our lived experiences. With the landscape of our inner being is revealed, we can sort things out and understand ourselves with more clarity. A time of reflection with a pen in hand can become a portal into the deeper places of our being, where we pursue abundant life and imagine ways to make our world a better place. But…
Why Art Journaling?
When words don’t adequately capture the depth and fullness of our experience, reaching for color, texture, shape in artful expression is delightful and satisfying. Art journaling teaches us to listen to ourselves and, over time, reveals “me to me”. When we journal, with an attitude of self-compassion and curiosity, we’re able to hear the desires of our hearts and see more clearly what is keeping us stuck. Both the joy and beauty of life and the wrestling with being human have a place on the page to be seen and embraced. A door is opened, allowing some things to leave and other things to arrive.
Do I need to be an Artist or be able to draw to attend?
Here is a page I created with the theme of JOY. The words call me to a higher place…a surrender and acceptance that inspires me to see life from a broader perspective.
An artist creates.
Create: to make or produce something new by using your talents and imagination: to cause something new to exist. (Merriam-Webster)
All you need is a willingness to believe in your unique ability to imagine. We will use a variety of art mediums (paint, sprays, gelatos, etc.) and layer with embellishments (paper memorabilia (aka ephemera), buttons, ribbon, washi tape, embossing powders, household items, etc.). Drawing or painting skills are NOT REQUIRED …however, you will need to learn to operate a glue gun!
What will it be like to attend an Art Journaling class?
Each class is 2.5 hours in length and is held in a group format with 6-8 people in attendance. We sit at work tables with plenty of space for each person to create in your own pre-purchased mixed media spiral book (see below for details). All the art materials and creative supplies are provided.
Each class has a theme and you will receive an email introducing the concept along with journaling prompts. Spending time journaling with the prompts prior to class equips you to bring your unique ideas for art journaling. You may even want to include your written journal pages in a pocket right onto your created page!
At the start of each session, step-by-step demos will be given, introducing several techniques to get you started. Throughout the class time, I will be available to offer style, color and design ideas as well as personal assistance to help bring your page to life!
What’s included and what do I have to bring?
ALL ART SUPPLIES ARE PROVIDED and included in the cost of the class. Please feel free to bring any special memento, photo, quote or personalized item you would like to include on your page.
You will need to purchase a Mixed Media spiral paper pad. Common brands available at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, JoAnns and on Amazon include: Canson, Strathmore or Bachmore. The pad needs to be labeled as MIXED MEDIA paper. If you prefer not to purchase a spiral paper pad, individual sheets of paper will be available for class.
The size depends on preference. I suggest a 9 X12 size to start. If you are already comfortable with Mixed Media Art Journaling, a larger size will give you more work space, but can be overwhelming for people new to this creative practice.
On occasion, an “art fart” from paints, sprays or a fellow creative’s enthusiasm may occur. So, I suggest wearing clothes that you don’t mind getting soiled… or bring an apron or old shirt to wear over your clothes.
The Details…
Where do we meet? At Hope for the Journey Counseling in Loveland, located on the second floor at 1401 South Taft Avenue.
When do we meet? Classes typically meet one Saturday a month from 9:30-12 noon (Please note time change).
2024 Dates: January 27, February 24, March 16, April 13, May 11, July 20, August 17, September 14, October 12, November 19
Cost and Payment? $55 which includes art materials and instruction. Participants will bring a pre-purchased mixed media journal. Space is limited so please register early by clicking on the Register for Art Journaling Class link below.
Two weeks prior to class, you will receive a text from the confidential, HIPPA compliant IVY PAY requesting payment of the $55 class fee. After clicking on the link, simply follow the prompts and enter your credit card number in the secure portal. Unfortunately, refunds are not available for Art Journaling classes, but you may receive a credit to attend a future class.
Questions? If you have any questions or prefer to inquire about alternative payment options, please email me, Stacey Blank, directly at hopeinthejourney@protonmail.com.
So, what do you say…are you willing and eager to try something new? To give your heart and soul a creative space to express itself? Does it sound exciting and intriguing to meet others who are ready to explore, learn and play? Then, Let’s Create together!
Of special interest to therapists…
This year our theme is BEHOLDING BEAUTY. We will be exploring the ways in which beauty in the natural world, various art forms and relationships cultivate hope, resilience and life satisfaction. If you are a therapist and believe any of your clients would benefit from a creative expression and connection with others, please consider recommending these upcoming Art Journaling Classes.
About the Instructor
Hi, my name is Stacey. I’m a therapist and my friends call me an artist (I’m still getting used to the idea myself). I began creating when I was a little girl…paints, glue sticks, rocks and leaves, easy bake ovens, blanket forts, mudpies sprinkled with wildflowers. With imagination, almost anything can be repurposed and brought to life in a new way!
I’ve taken drawing, painting and pottery classes here and there, but I don’t have any formal training. I just love to create! It brings me joy and feeds my soul.
I learned about Art Journaling from a therapist friend and decided I wanted to share it with others, who also find creating a soulful expression. You really don’t need to be “artistic” or have any drawing or painting skills. You just have to be willing to let your creative spirit roam free! Please, come join us if you are ready to explore your life in a creating community!
