Art Journals for Personal Projects
How to Use Journaling to Keep Track of Arts Projects
When artists (mixed media or not) are able to look beyond the use of an art journal as a way of scribbling down visual thoughts, they're opening themselves up to a whole new area of creation. These thoughts don't necessarily have to center on personal crisis, grief, events or accomplishments, or making lists to deal with things of a personal nature. They can also be used to document the progress of personal projects that may be planned for a future art show, gifts, home decor and other categories.
Most artists tend to have a work in progress – or several – spread out somewhere in their studio or workplace. And, more often than not, another project will flitter in without warning. Creating a system for keeping track of what's done, what needs to be done and what's still in the concept phase is vital. Otherwise, projects may either sit in limbo for a long period of time or be forgotten entirely.
In these personal project art journals, artists should consider:
- making notes about the work currently occurring in their studios (or workspaces)
- keeping supply lists updated
- noting when projects are completed
- sketching out ideas as they happen
- noting events that might require a gift or donation
- experimenting with new styles, mediums and methods
- ranting or venting about what's not working out
- making note of what's working well
When choosing an art journal to keep track of personal projects, be sure to choose one that's on the small side. Many artists choose moleskin journals for this purpose because they're small enough to carry along (in hand or in a bag or backpack), and they contain high-quality paper (ruled or unruled). Some artists opt for a spiral binding so the book can expand easier when mixed media elements are added and so they can tear sheets out without ruining the binding. Then there's the choice of working in a handmade book specifically created for this purpose.
Each artist will have their own individual use and style for their personal project-themed art journal because it's solely based on their needs and what their personal projects are. Don't be afraid to make a mess, tear out pages, glue things in, make text-only entries when necessary and keep it active as often as possible. Don't be afraid to make use of this journal when you're out and about and inspiration strikes.
Remember that personal projects are just as important as income-producing ones, so don't be fooled into thinking otherwise. Embrace this tool!
