Why Should I Start Art Journaling? Which Art Journal Should I Use?
Journaling brings clarity by tapping into your subconscious mind, helping you find creative solutions to problems. It’s a fantastic way to expand ideas, brainstorm, and explore different topics. But beyond writing, art journaling adds a visual layer of self-expression, making it an even more powerful tool for mindfulness, creativity, and self-discovery.
Unlike traditional journaling, where words take center stage, art journaling blends images, colors, and textures with writing to create a truly personal space. Whether you're using it as a meditative morning routine, a way to document your life, or a creative outlet, art journaling can transform your mindset and bring more joy into your daily life.
The Benefits of Art Journaling
Art journaling is more than just a creative hobby—it’s a practice that nurtures mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. Here’s why you should start your art journal pages:
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Engaging in creative activities in any art style has been proven to lower stress levels and promote relaxation. The simple act of making marks on paper—whether it's doodling, painting, or layering textures—helps quiet a racing mind and shift focus away from worries.
When you express emotions visually, you release tension in a way that words alone might not allow. By creating freely in your art journal, you give yourself permission to unleash emotions without pressure or judgment.
2. Boosts Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
Art journaling encourages free expression and thinking outside the box. When you regularly experiment with different materials, techniques, and ideas, you strengthen your creative muscles, making it easier to approach challenges in new and innovative ways.
Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, playing with colors, textures, and mixed media can spark fresh ideas in all areas of life, whether in work, personal projects, or decision-making.
3. Encourages Self-Discovery and Emotional Awareness
Sometimes, we aren’t fully aware of our emotions until we put them on paper. Art journaling allows you to explore your inner world visually, helping you identify recurring themes, hidden emotions, and personal patterns.
As you flip through past pages, you may notice shifts in color choices, mark-making styles, or even the words you use—all offering insight into your emotional journey.
4. Builds Confidence and Self-Trust a journal
Art journaling is a judgment-free zone where mistakes become opportunities. Over time, as you develop your unique visual style, you’ll gain confidence, not just in your creativity but in expressing yourself more freely in other aspects of life.
By letting go of perfectionism and embracing experimentation, you’ll start to trust your instincts—both in art and in everyday decisions.
You don't need special art supplies; you can start a journal with what you have around you and unleash your creativity step by step.
5. Enhances Mindfulness and Focus
The process of art journaling naturally encourages mindfulness. When you focus on the sensation of the pen gliding across the page, the way paint spreads, or the feel of different textures, you become fully present in the moment.
A simple mindfulness activity to try in your art journal:
✔ Set a timer for 5–10 minutes.
✔ Choose a color that reflects your mood.
✔ Without judgment, make marks on the page.
✔ Focus on the sensations—texture, sound, and movement.
✔ When the timer goes off, take a deep breath and observe your creation with curiosity, not criticism.
This practice not only helps with relaxation but also improves concentration and attention to detail.
6. Provides a Safe Space for Personal Growth
An art journal is a space that’s entirely your own. It’s a place to experiment, explore ideas, and express thoughts without the fear of being judged. You can use it to:
✔ Set goals and track progress.
✔ Visualize dreams and intentions.
✔ Let your creativity flow without restrictions.
Over time, your art journal becomes a personal archive of your growth—both creatively and emotionally.
How to Get Started with Art Journaling
Starting an art journal doesn’t require expensive art supplies. Here’s what you need:
✔ A blank journal or sketchbook
✔ Colored pencils, pens, or watercolors
✔ Magazines or scrap paper for collaging
✔ A glue stick or washi tape for layering
✔ A willingness to experiment and have fun!
What Size Do I Want My Art Journal to Be?
Choosing the right size for your art journal depends on how and where you plan to use it.
✔ A4 (Large) – Perfect for expressive painting, collage work, and layering materials. Great for home use when you want plenty of space to explore ideas.
✔ A5 (Medium) – A balanced option, offering enough room for creativity while still being portable.
✔ Small Journals (10x10 cm or 8x8 cm) – Ideal for quick sketches, notes, and on-the-go creativity. I keep these in my handbag so I can journal whenever inspiration strikes!
Your art journal should fit your lifestyle—whether it's a large sketchbook for home, a travel-friendly notebook, or a mini journal for spontaneous creativity. There’s no right or wrong size—just what feels best for you!
What to Write in Your Art Journal?
Now that you understand the benefits, you might be wondering: What should I put in my art journal? The truth is—anything! But if you need inspiration, here are a few ideas:
1. Express Your Emotions with Colors and Shapes
Instead of writing “I feel happy” or “I feel overwhelmed,” try using colors and marks to reflect your emotions. Bright yellows and swirling lines can represent joy, while heavy brushstrokes or scribbles may capture frustration.
You can:
✔ Create a mixed media journal using old photos or magazine images.
✔ Make your own collage papers for unique textures.
✔ Add stitches, layers, or texture to make your journal pages more expressive.
2. Daily Reflections & Gratitude Lists
Write down something that stood out in your day, big or small. Even a simple list of things you're grateful for can shift your mindset toward positivity.
3. Personal Affirmations & Mantras
Write empowering statements like:
✨ “I am creative.”
✨ “I embrace my unique voice.”
✨ “I trust the process.”
Decorate them with bold lettering, watercolor washes, stamps, inks, or acrylic paint to create abstract backgrounds.
4. Quotes That Inspire You
Write down a favorite quote, song lyric, or book excerpt and illustrate it. I love adding quotes between painted pages or doodles—it brings extra meaning to my journal.
5. Mind Mapping & Brainstorming
Use your art journal to explore ideas visually. Sketch out concepts, connect thoughts with arrows, or layer colors over brainstorming notes to bring ideas to life.
6. Visual Stories & Dream Journaling
Instead of only writing about a dream or memory, illustrate it! Abstract shapes or detailed sketches can turn your experiences into art.
7. Experimentation & Play
Your art journal is the perfect place to try new techniques without pressure. Start creating:
✔ Color combinations.
✔ New mediums like ink, gouache, or collage.
✔ Textures and layered materials.
Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the joy of creating!
Where to find prompts?
If you’d like a little guidance, download my free Art Journaling Starter Kit for self-reflection prompts and creative exercises.
And for ongoing inspiration, join The Journaling Muse—where I share weekly insights, prompts, and tips for deepening your creative practice.
If you prefer videos, I have an art journaling course too.
🎨✨ Your art journal is a space just for you. No rules, no judgment—just creativity and self-expression.
Are you ready to start? Let me know in the comments what excites you most about art journaling!
