Thank you again to the Bexley Community Foundation for the Wellness grant that allowed the Bexley Library to host me and 27 tweens, for 6 weeks, in learning art journaling techniques that allowed for creativity and relaxation. Starting from a simple moleskin, blank journal we worked through a variety of techniques to not only alter their journal pages with a variety of mediums, but to design intricate places for holding or hiding special elements. We dyed paper, altered both black and white and color images; we even created fresh journals from every day recyclable objects.

Art is a messy business and it is important to embrace the mess, embrace the mistakes and embrace the unique because who wants cookie cutter art? The tweens all explored their own interests and genres of art journaling themes, while allowing the week’s stresses melt away.

They surrounded themselves in happy color and conversation and learned that the act of creating can heal.