There are many ways to record and document feelings, experiences, and reflections. Most of us resort to words alone, believing we lack the time or artistic talent to create illustrated pages that can make our journals more meaningful. But longtime writer and visual journaler Gwen Diehn believes that is simply not the case. She suggests many simple methods for making books more artistic, beautiful, and expressive using visual elements to enhance the written word.
Most art begins with materials chosen to create the desired effects. Diehn explains how materials such as paper, paint, and adhesive work and interact so that you can make informed decisions when buying them. She believes that less is often more when it comes to supplies.
Journals reflect the interests and values of the people who produce them. With that in mind, Diehn presents seven different worldviews that affect the way a journal can look. For example, the naturalist's journal is functional, and its beauty lies in the precision of its sketches, maps, and diagrams.
To provide a structure that will start your creativity flowing, Diehn suggests working in stages-creating layers on a page. These stages include starters, which are the foundation layers; middles, which are the embellishments; and toppers, which are easy finishing touches.
One of the most challenging aspects of journaling can be finding a book suited to individual needs. Diehn demonstrates how to make your own book, which allows you to incorporate special features you won't find in store-bought books. There's also information for customizing ready-made blank books as well as altering existing books for creative expression.
Following-up the highly successful The Decorated Page, this unique guide provides a wealth of ideas for beginners as well as those looking for inspiration to explore visual journaling further. Book jacket.
|
