This is my very first art journal. I know...isn't it hilarious? I had no idea what I was doing. I thought that red pleather cover and pages full of cheap, lightweight graph paper was the perfect book to begin my life in art journaling.
I remember going out and buying all these gorgeous scrapbook papers and cheap watercolor paints.
I was compelled to burn the edges of the paper. I do not know where I came up with that idea but I do remember not being happy about "torn edges." I spent hours with a lighter to the effect. I sure am glad I gave up on that technique.
I lived in WNC at the time and was incredibly inspired by the art, the people and the town. I began collecting everyday minutia to use in my journals. This is a technique I still embrace today. Shouldn't everybody embrace a parking citation?
At this time, I started scouring thrift and antique stores for old books I could tear apart. I remember a friend at the time once telling me, "So you buy books to tear apart to glue into new books?" It was probably one of the most honest things anyone has ever said about my art.
I was afraid of my own handwriting (which I lovingly embrace in my current art!) so I used a lot of rubbings and stamps (something I NEVER to today). In fact, I donated all of those supplies to the thrift store recently so they could be enjoyed and not just gathering dust in my already over-crowded studio.
I wrote a lot back then. A LOT. These days, my daily writing journals are kept separate from my art journals. As a single mother of a 6 year old, I do not have the time to write like I used to (although my daughter and I do share quiet time in the morning writing together). I was also BIG into song lyrics and I incorporated those into my journals. I have always had a love of sharpies!
I cannot believe how much my handwriting has changed since 2006. When I moved to Virginia, I did not know anyone so I would spend most of my time alone making art in the evenings and weekends. I started finding more and more books about art journaling at my local bookstore and would spend hours trying to emulate certain artist's styles. I know that had a huge impact on my current handwriting.
This journal was full of ticket stubs. I do not do live music much anymore. After I had my daughter, I became more of an introvert and more focused on my art career. I had to admit to myself that I had enough camping in my 20s to last me the rest of my life! Give me a quiet studio or an afternoon with my daughter over a loud music hall!
I see so much of my current style in these old books. I learned a lot over the years...such as binding my own art journals and making my own papers (a concept I will share with you at a later date). I learned that the binding and the weight of the paper are critical to making the book close properly. My collage process is more evolved and I work in books that are more portable. I mean, seriously, look at this monster!
I hope you have enjoyed taking a peek into one of my very first art journals. As an artist, I find it important to revisit older work. Sometimes you cringe, sometimes you find it endearing, sometimes you want to run and hide.
Would you like to see more of older work? I have loads more that I would love to share about my ever evolving art style!