What can I write in my art journal?

Keeping an art journal can complement your artistic journey as it prompts you to get curious about what you're thinking and how you're feeling. And on the days you don't manage to put brush to paper, writing a sentence or two in your art journal can help you to feel that you've done something towards your artistic goals, which can keep you motivated.

An art journal is a private, pressure-free space where you can think freely, reflect and explore thoughts and ideas. It's not about documenting your life - it's about nourishing your creativity and allowing it to flow out in whatever way feels right in the moment. That might include painting, sketching, doodling and writing.

How to use this list of writing prompts:

The prompts in this article are designed to help you get into the habit of writing in your sketchbook or journal. Whether you try it once, dip in occasionally or write something every day.

You can pick one at random, come back to any favourites (or note them inside the cover of your journal). You might turn these prompts into short sentences of they could flow into long reflections. There’s no wrong way. 

Prompts about the painting process

1. Today I painted… (describe the subject briefly - describe the form, colour, or visual texture. Did it remind you of anything?)
2. One thing that surprised me while painting todaywas…
3. Something I found difficult today was…
4. If I had more time today, I’d…
5. I paused when… (and what that told me about my process).
6. I got into flow when…
7. What felt different about today’s painting session?
8. I’m curious to explore more… (a colour combo, technique, subject).
9. I noticed my confidence changed when…
10. I put my paintbrush down and ended my session today because...

Technique & tools 

1. I tried this technique today: ... 
2. The colour mix I enjoyed working with was…
3. What I learned about water control and paint consistency today…
4. I’d like to experiment next with… (technique, supplies...).
5. I painted with a different style today. It felt…
6. How I handled mistakes or unexpected results today…

Nature & observation 

1. I noticed this in nature today and it inspired me…
2. A shape or texture in my surroundings that caught my eye today was…
3. I saw this colour in real life and want to remember it: 
4. If I could paint one living thing I saw growing today, it'd be...
5. This season makes me feel...
6. This season makes me want to paint…
7. Today reminded me how much I love painting ... (subjects)

Prompts to help you reflect on your learning

1. A tutorial I found helpful today, and why…
2. One small shift I noticed in my skills…
3. Something I used to avoid that I tried today…
4. What I’d say to myself if I were just starting out…
5. How seeing another member’s artwork encouraged me today…
6. I'll know I've made huge progress when I feel ready to paint the ........ tutorial.
7. A Practice Pic I’m looking forward to trying…
8. The course in the Course Library I'd live to try next is....

Remember: the goal of your art journal isn’t to write a lot - it’s to stay connected to your creative journey. Your journal is your companion. Let it hold your experiments, your questions, and your growth. 

And please do share any of those with the Nature Studio community if you feel willing to share, for example by starting a forum discussion. Your questions and thoughts can spark fascinating discussions and inspire others to do what you're doing.