Doodle Therapy

When You're Stuck - A Painting That Paints Inself

2012-01-29T21:56:00.002-05:00

Doodle Therapy - Green Frost - Patricia Kay

Sometimes you want to create... something. Your heart is in it, your spirit is ready, but you're...

Something vague - disconnected. Your mind is on hiatus - which actually can be a good thing - it means no interruptions from the critical controller.

If I give in and not do anything, I can add frustration to the mix. The odd thing is, I won't accomplish anything else either when this state hits. So it's best to find my way out of it, or it will be a totally wasted day.

On a day like this, I need to be into painting rather than the Daily Doodle Journal. That's when I fall back on my motivational monoprints. Just paint and paper - no brushes needed! All I have to do is drop, squirt or streak paint across the paper, lay another piece on top , give it a few taps or swirls of the hand, and voila - a painting that painted itself!

And magically, gazing at the blended colors and fascinating textures, will snap me out of my state of disconnect into a more inspired frame of mind.

Of course, my best pieces come out when I am more inspired and rely on my intuition to guide me. But, surprisingly, you can achieve really great results even when you are aimlessly creating. Some of my better prints were created when I was "out there, somewhere".

For the piece above, I used a random mix of India ink, acrylic ink and iridescent medium. Getting two for the price of one, I cut one of the prints into various sized pieces that I will use for other projects.

If you like the adventure of unexpected outcomes or are in need of some instant gratification, you can get a quick art fix with this type of monoprint. Use any kind of paint, add different mediums for different effects - just make sure it is wet enough and you don't wait too long to pull off the top sheet.

Try these just for the fun of it. The best part is when you peel back your page to find out what your design looks like - guaranteed - it's like a trip back to your childhood!

Happy Doodling!

The Power of a Sensitive Heart

2012-01-02T22:27:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

Welcome to Doodle Therapy!

I had planned to write about the new year with positive and creative intentions, but have not been able to get this topic out of my thoughts. It selected itself for the first post of the new year, and for whatever reason, maybe it needs to be heard.

We live in a society that has far greater respect and admiration for toughness and harshness. Gentleness, sensitivity and compassion are considered by many to be signs of weakness and make anyone possessing these qualities, a target for criticism.

You learn early in life to hide or deny these qualities or toughen up. A lifetime of playing defense to hide or deny who your really are, takes an enormous amount of energy and a heavy toll on one's spirit. Not only that, it means that you have bought into the belief that these qualities are really faults or flaws in your personality that should be disowned, which is even more damaging.

The truth is, if you are sensitive, it is your greatest gift. But, it can be a double-edged sword and can also bring you the greatest grief.

Being a sensitive soul may make you more easily hurt. But I wonder... are sensitive people really thin-skinned, or is it that they are more likely to be the target of thoughtless or harsh criticism? When you are constantly subjected to pain, it either becomes super sensitive or calloused. And, Isn't extreme toughness just a calloused facade?

I believe that sensitivity is a strength that ,has far more power than toughness. It is sensitivity that is:

your source of intuition
what enables you to recognize and pick up on the subtleties - to get the subtext
your source of compassion, empathy and kindness

It is the sensitive souls that are able to sense what someone else may really mean, need or feel. They know when something is wrong long before anyone else.

Yes, sensitive types are more in tune with their emotions, maybe to the discomfort of others. And yes, quicker to cry. Is that because they are weak, or is it that their emotions are closer to the surface.

Being a sensitive soul, I've been told over and over, you're too sensitive, you shouldn't care so much, you shouldn't take things to heart or let things affect you so much. Should, should, should! It could just make you want to scream!

There finally came a point in my life when I wasn't willing to listen anymore to the comment "you're too sensitive". The turning point came when I was able to simply and firmly say to someone making that "accusation", "or maybe you're just too insensitive". My "accuser" was silenced - at least momentarily; but never brought it up again.

It took a long time to truly appreciate that my sensitivity is one of my best qualities. It's the foundation of everything else that I am. During my self-help, "perfecting the product" days, I worked very hard on eradicating that perceived imperfection. How ironic, that all my attempts at perfecting, were really creating more imperfections.

I now try to remember to respond to that "accusation" with, "and that's what I like about me best!"

So, what does all this have to do with creativity? For one, I believe that art that comes from the heart is your best work - it's coming directly from the source and has the ability to connect deeply with others.

If you are blocking your sensitivity and who you are, you are blocking the flow of creativity. When that protective layer is pulled away and your heart is allowed to open fully, the light and beauty of what is inside will spill over, infusing your work with your true spirit.

Who you really are is what is in your heart, not what is in your head.

The world has its place for the tough minded, but now, more than ever, we need the strength of sensitive hearts who have the ability to bring more peace, empathy and compassion into this world. There's nothing wrong with being tough, but we need to balance and elevate the value of those with strong, sensitive hearts.

If you are one, find and surround yourself with other like-hearted souls so you can securely start to shed the protective layers blocking your light. Collectively, we have something valuable to give to this world.

Wishing you a new year filled with love, light and creativity!

Happy Doodling!

The Gift of Creativity

2011-12-18T22:07:00.002-05:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS & WELCOME TO DOODLE THERAPY!

"The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is in giving your gift away." David Viscott

In this season of gift giving, I would like to focus on the gifts we already have and the ones that may not have been used or discovered yet.

I found the quote above several years ago. It resonated with me because it pretty much summed up my feelings about my creative abilities. I would always be making something and then give it away. Some of the best experiences I've had, were opportunities to donate my work for charity auctions. It was thrilling to know that my art could make more money for a charity than I was able to give.

I knew I wanted to write about the gift of creativity this week, and of course, as the Law of Attraction would have it, I rediscovered this quote while looking through an old journal. This time, I find it even more meaningful. I think of my blog as a gift given to me that provides me with an outlet to send out my gift of positive, creative vibes that hopefully will find their way to wherever they are needed. My hope is that I am able to offer a light on the creative journey to awaken or expand creative potential.

Back in the eighties, I read, What Color is Your Parachute" by Dick Bolles. This book is considered to be the job hunters bible and has been updated over and over again. As a creative soul trying to survive in the land of numbers and big business, I took to heart his message about finding and defining your mission in life.

When I wrote my mission statement the first time, part of it read that I wanted to work for a company that measured its success by how many people were helped rather than how many dollars were made. I never did get to work for that type of company/organization, so I had to find ways to make that the philosophy of my personal life.

I truly believe that in order to experience a life full of joy and gratitude, you need to have a sense of purpose - to know or find your mission that you were sent here to accomplish. It doesn't matter if you know it early in life or if it takes a lifetime searching for that answer. Finding your purpose and using the gifts you were given to achieve your mission makes a world of difference in how you feel about yourself.

We are taught that we will get that sense of purpose from our jobs, but most people are working in a job that just pays the bills, not one that offers personal fulfillment. So, it becomes more important to find other ways to use or develop your gifts. If you don't know what they are, then it is your mission to find that out.

Every soul has their potential role to play in this life. Some may be for a smaller audience like your family or close friends, while others may be for a larger stage, influencing others in your community or even worldwide.

The key is not if your gift makes you important, it's what you do with your gifts that is important.

Whether your gifts are in the visual arts, design, crafts, music, writing, dance, cooking/baking, carpentry/diy or gardening - if you are blessed with creative gifts of any kind, you have the ability to add beauty to a world that desperately needs uplifting and transformation.

In times like today, with our economy in the state that it is and so many people out of work, creativity is more important than ever. It is going to take creatives and their creative ideas to get us back on track. Your gifts are needed at every level. No matter how small or grand the contribution; collectively, the positive energy generated has the power to make this world a better place.

The gifts you already have, the ones you have had since birth, are the ones that really matter. Nothing under the tree this year, or from Christmas past can compare. Your gift is the gift you are able to give to others. Your gifts make a difference.

What is your gift? What were you sent here to do? How will you use your gifts? Will you be able to complete your mission?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS & HAPPY DOODLING!

The Creative Journey - Standing Before the Fork in the Road

2011-12-11T23:45:00.000-05:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS & WELCOME TO DOODLE THERAPY!

Where to go next, a vagueness, a question and yet a great sense that I've been here before. Flashbacks to a time decades ago keep streaming in while future possibilities fill my consciousness all at the same time. Maybe it's the spirit of Christmas past...

I feel as though I am walking into a totally new phase of my life - unfamiliar territory - with many new pathways in front of me. I am unsure of my surroundings, but very curious and intrigued about what is around the corner.

Something in my subconscious has stirred and the tectonic plates are shifting ever so slowly, but oh so distinctly. In times past, this feeling of the unknown would set off loads of stress and anxiety. Not this time.

It feels welcoming, positive and strangely like the place I was meant to be long ago, before all the detours of life took me elsewhere.

I don't know where this flight is taking me, but I'm happy to get on board and anxious to get there.

I found lately that I have been having more difficulty drawing in my usual way. What would flow easily, is now encountering points of hesitation - my mind wants to go in one direction, while my hand wants to go in another. My old familiar style is in some type of holding pattern, but the "something totally new and different", that I sense is just beneath the surface and isn't ready to emerge yet.

Little glimpses of new forms have been popping up here and there in the past few months, but they feel like a pinhole view of something immense on the other side.

My Daily Doodle entries reflect an unsettled state - just indecisive scribbles.

I don't know what it will take to break through, so I will allow the process to take it's course and enjoy this new phase of the journey.

Following my intention to nurture and explore this new path, I found Louise Gale's 2012 Creative Color Challenge, or should I say, it found me. What perfect timing!

With the new year approaching, I have been reflecting on this past year and on my direction and focus for 2012. I was looking for a theme or word for my 2012 goals, but haven't found what feels right.

I just started my blog this past March and spent this year exploring and carving out my little niche in the creative blogosphere. I have lost and found myself many times in my life - LOL! - so exploration doesn't quite fit this new phase of the journey. Refining is more appropriate, but not quite right either.

My birthday is coming up and it is the birthday before the "big one". I want this coming year to be filled with creativity like no other, so when I hit that "big one" next year, it will be one that I celebrate and embrace.

My heart is filled with such gratitude and joy right now. To anyone who stops by to visit and read my blog, I thank you and wish you a new year filled with peace, love and all things creative. I hope you will join me on a creative adventure at Louise's Creative Color Challenge.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS & HAPPY DOODLING!

The Joy of Creativity... The Agony of Creative Blocks

2011-11-28T00:29:00.000-05:00

Doodle Therapy - Winged Floral Spirit - Patricia Kay

Nothing makes me happier than being in the process of creating. It calms me, liberates my spirit and gives me a greater sense of purpose than anything else... and it can cause me the most grief when I encounter a creative block.

I started the doodle above a few days ago and loved its shape and flow, but then I got fixated on its imperfect lines and whether it was complete. Once that discussion in my mind takes hold, things go nowhere. When I went back to my drawing, the whole debate raged on.

I am finding that sometimes the pieces that I like the most - the ones that flow the easiest in the first stages - are the ones that are sometimes the hardest to finish. It took me a while before I started to question why.

I usually follow my impulses and intuition; however, there are times when that little nagging voice comes back to torment me! Often, I will come to a point where I don't know what I want to do next, so I will sit and stare at my work imagining what the choices will look like or "air draw" it.

But if I do this too long, that annoying little voice will creep in with its cynical opinion. And once the thinking starts - I'm done! I have to walk away. Progress will come to a halt.

I have learned, over the years, many ways to get around this, not that it always helps.

Walking away and coming back for a fresh start sometimes helps, but then valuable time is lost.
Working on diminishing the value of the inner critic helps, but that's an on-going process that has proved to be more challenging than I thought.
Even exercise works to bring me back to a "feel good" state, but that also takes valuable time away. Of course, if it can do that while also being beneficial to your health, then it's worthwhile... I suppose - but, I'd rather be creating.

The bigger issue is, why don't I know what I want to do next? Is it really that I don't know?Now I go through a little interrogation process to get to the bottom of it. For me, it's usually one of four possibilities:

I'm afraid that I will ruin it with the next step (as a recovering perfectionist, this is a constant struggle).
I'm still getting caught up in what others will think.
The initial feeling or vibe has shifted. I prefer to work in an expressive, abstract style, which can be a problem if you don't finish the concept in one sitting - what you were feeling may be gone when you get back to it.
The debate over whether it's finished.

Sometimes it's a combination of the above. I don't always need to get to the root of the issue, I just need to clear out all the clutter going on to get back in the creative zone.

This is where the Daily Doodle Journal is most helpful. If I take 5-10 minutes to doodle or "scribble out" the clutter, I can get back on track.

If I'm stressed or feeling anxious, the doodles/scribbles will look that way to me - and that's the point of taking the time to draw what you are feeling - it gets it out on paper. It may seem over simplified, but getting it out on paper dissipates the emotion. If you're worried about wasting paper on scribbles, try using newsprint sketch pads or see what you can find at the dollar store.

Once you start doing this, personal symbols and different drawing styles will appear representing how you feel. The goal is to do very quick drawings and continue to do pages until you feel the energy shift to a positive state (see below).

Sometimes you may get the urge to do a more detailed drawing in a style that is unfamiliar to you. Don't fight the urge or judge it - just do it, even if it looks weird to you. It's something that needs to be expressed and has a message that may or may not be understood at the moment.

The picture below shows my first two entries. Repetitive horizontal and vertical lines, for me, are usually signs of frustration, indecision or stress. The level of darkness of the line is the intensity of what I am feeling.

What I was feeling at the time was more about negativity that was going on around me. I was starting to feel weighted down. Just writing "STOP" was enough to feel a little release. In my next entry, there is still a similar look in the shape and symbol, but it is less chaotic and intense.

The energy shifted in the next entry with the "beet person". There is still some downward symbolism in the roots/body, but there is also the balance on the upside with the leaves - this is a common theme for me. Adding the face for my own amusement, created a deeper shift to a positive state. You can see, the lines are more curved, relaxed and flowing in the following entry. Curved, meandering lines show up in my drawings when I am in a positive, receptive state. It's important to note that the intent of this technique is not to create great art. It's using art with a mind-body-spirit approach to work through creative blocks.

The next set shows the total shift. The final drawing is a symbol of flow for me. There is balance up, down and across with an upward emphasis. It looks different and felt different while drawing it.

This whole process works well because it is spontaneous and expressive - you allow your hand to be guided by your feelings or intuition - no thinking or deliberate action allowed.

Usually, a few minutes is all that it takes, but if your are new to this, you may find yourself doing page after page. I spent about about 10 minutes on these and was able to get back on track and get back to completing my doodle. I know; all this for a doodle?

But here are the biggest benefits: It is in this open, creative state, when the answers to your questions will flow freely without any effort. In the beginning, it may take some time to reach that sub-conscious level, but once you are comfortable with being open and receptive, it will become automatic. Best of all, as you progress, your style and technique will begin to transform and truly look like an expression of your creative inner spirit.

The simple doodle is the vehicle that will take you on your journey.

Happy Doodling!

From One Heart to Another

2011-11-20T23:24:00.001-05:00

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude to those that have stopped by and taken the time to read my posts and leave a comment. This blog has opened up a whole new world for me and has given me a new avenue for my creativity. I consider myself very lucky.

My work is in the land of numbers - as far removed from creativity as you can get. But I work for a company that I love, where I've been given opportunities to become involved in other activities utilizing my creative side. For that, I am very grateful. And I work with a group of people that I love, who are fun and anything but dull and boring. So even though I am living in a black and white world by day, my days are very bright and happy.

My life at home changed dramatically several years ago. My mother was seriously ill and I needed to move in to take care of her. I lost my creative space and much of the time I could devote to art, but I have the peace of mind knowing that she is ok with me there to watch over her. I still have her in my life and I thank God for that everyday.

My wish for you is a life full of creative adventures even when there just isn't that much time for yourself. I wish you a path that is free of creative blocks and stress, but should they come your way, you will have the tools to work your way through them.

Creativity is the key that will open the door to all that is possible. It needs to be developed and evolving. It is the vehicle that will take you where you need to be. I wish you a happy and fulfilling journey.

Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Doodling!

Confessions of A Recovering Perfectionist - Unfinished Work

2011-11-13T19:04:00.003-05:00

In the spirit of my post, I am displaying the best of my unfinished work! They deserve a little glory too!

Pattereeka, Goddess of Imperfection & The Incomplete

When I made Pattereeka, she was complete, but then she lost her
arms and broke her neck and I neglected to get around to fixing her.
I decided instead to dedicate her life to all things unfinished and imperfect.
With her asymmetrical breasts, missing arms and well endowed backside,
she is perfect for her new life's purpose.

I grew up with the message "if you can't do something right, don't do it at all". Is it any wonder that I became a perfectionist unable to finish my projects!

My hyper-critical eye was quick to spot the tiniest imperfection. That line isn't perfectly straight, it isn't centered right, it's lopsided. What started out as spontaneous and fun, ended up unfinished due to it's offending flaw.

Even back in high school, I was busy
perfecting all my projects. This little
bowl actually started out as a large vase!
By the time I finished eliminating all the
flaws, it became a tiny dish!

I took great pride in making things perfect and would spend countless hours fixing or covering up all things imperfect. It was my process! But sometimes, my talent in perfecting the imperfect could not resurrect or repair my work and it would end up unfinished -abandoned. Or worse yet, destroyed, never to have to be seen with its flaws again!

But after years of working that way, I just didn't have the time or desire any more to keep fixing things instead of creating things. So I found other ways to channel my creativity. Not much time would lapse
though before I had to get back to something that involved brushes, paints, pencils and paper.

The turning point came when I started feeling a sense of frustration each time "I had to fix something". I didn't want to fix it, but I couldn't accept it either - self-doubt started to settle in.

Waiting for attention...

As any true perfectionist, I had an extensive library of self-improvement books enabling me to get to the bottom of any problem I might have and banish it for good. So, I thought...

I figured, now that I know how and why I was doing this, there was really no reason to continue this frustrating behavior, right?

The truth I found, was that I wasn't frustrated with my perfectionistic tendency, I was proud of it! It was one of my best qualities - the willingness to become better at something - what could be wrong with that!

So, how do you get rid of or reform a sense of pride in creating and cultivating perfection. That goal would turn out to be a life-long project!

Someone would comment, "your handwriting is so perfect - I've never seen such perfectly spaced handwriting". Well, that just made my day! I would just be beaming like a little 7-year old, who finally got a compliment from her critical teacher. Someone recognized and appreciated my efforts!

I started to have my doubts about whether this could be fixed.

I wanted to accept the mantra of "mistakes are happy accidents". But, all I was thinking is, "are you kidding me, it's the end of the world for my project!".

Backgrounds interrupted

Avoidance became the way that I chose to deal with my conflict. Being a creative soul, I would just find other ways to channel my creativity - and that worked for a while.

I went through a long period of self-reflection and worked on self-acceptance, which really was the core issue, and the day finally came when all of that bottled-up creative energy couldn't be contained any more. I may write about that another time. I was faced with the questions, do you really want to live your life without the beauty of art and without a voice to express your vision? Should something that you love so much, be so difficult? Can you allow your intuition to be in control and to guide you on a new path, one without the expectation of perfection? Or are you willing to remain the same?

I kind of like it the way it is, but....

I was finally ready to accept images that came from a deeper place and not question what it was supposed to be. My artistic style changed dramatically and was far more natural looking to me.

Of course, that didn't totally get rid of my desire to perfect or my concern about what others might think (which is a whole other topic). What holds me back now, is that I will find that I like how a project is flowing and then come to a point where I'm worried that if I continue, I will do something to ruin it. And if it's not that, I will come to a point where I feel that it is finished, but a nagging little voice keeps butting in saying it's not. It's always something!

Now What?

But my desire now to create what needs to be expressed as is, is far greater than my desire to create something perfect. I create now what is fun and follow my intuition and natural impulses. If it starts to feel like work or needs fixing, I stop, take a break or use my Daily Doodle Journal to work out what I am feeling. And yes, I still end up with unfinished work, however, now I accept them as works ahead of their time. There is a message or a lesson in each one that I need to understand. And when it is revealed to me, they will be ready to complete, which is why I save them and refer back to them. I no longer see them as rejects - they are messengers.

Hope you enjoyed seeing some of my unfinished work in all its glory!

Happy Doodling!

'LinkConnector Validation'

When Pain, Anger or Criticism Gets in the Way of Creativity

2011-10-30T23:27:00.007-04:00

Time for creativity is a precious commodity. Finding time for your passion is hard enough, but what do you do when pain, anger or someones criticism robs you of the little time you have to devote to it. How do you, or can you turn it around?

Sometimes pain or illness just gets the best of you and you need to listen to your body and rest. But sometimes, even just a few minutes of creativity can produce those wonderful endorphins that can reduce the level of pain and allow you some time to create.

Anger or a negative mood is a very powerful distraction, and if allowed, will hold you hostage, preventing you from doing what you love. So what if you could allow it to be expressed creatively as a way of negotiating with the hostage taker to get back your creative time?

The whole "Just get over it" philosophy may work for some, but sometimes, some things just need to get out or they'll remain under the radar and explode later. A few minutes of creative fireworks can defuse the negative energy and bring you back to a positive state.

Someones careless or deliberately critical comments can deplete you of your creative energy if you dwell on it. Trying to understand someones motive or insecurity may help you to a degree, but it also robs you of your valuable time and keeps you in a negative frame of mind. A few minutes of creative repair and re-energizing can help you minimize the effects of any negativity aimed at you.

So, how do you take back your time from these energy wasters? I don't recommend that you willfully dive into your creative project of choice. If you're like me, that just doesn't work! For me, the best prescription is a few minutes of creative transition time to acknowledge what is causing the problem and then release it.

I do this in my Daily Doodle Journal. In this journal, I use quick, simple doodles or scribbles to express what I am feeling. It is more of a body/mind approach for releasing energy, not an art journal The purpose is to quickly get on paper the feeling you are experiencing. Doing this with just a pencil or marker without the expectation of producing your usual journal pages allows you to focus on just the feeling and getting it done quickly. And the quicker you release any negative energy the less time it will take for you to get back to your creative project with a clear head and positive state of mind.

I normally will spend a minute or less on a scribble, doodle or one continuous line drawing, then continue on to additional pages until I feel the energy shift or minimize. You will not only feel the difference, but will see the difference in your drawings. The important thing to remember is that the purpose is to express what you are feeling not to create a work of art.

While I usually work in pencil, I also like to use chalk pastels or pastel pencils when I feel that I need to get the color intensity of what I am feeling. In the example above, I was experiencing a lot of back pain and was very irritated. I felt that the colors best expressed the toxicity that I was feeling.

In the examples shown below, you can see the progression of the intensity of each entry as it diminished.

By the time I was finished, I felt that the anger I was feeling when I started had dissipated. The chaotic and unsettled feeling was gone and I was able to move on.

The amount of time it takes to cross over to creative energy depends on the intensity of what you are feeling. It's worth every minute though, if you gain back your time for creative pursuits.

I have tried adding words and journaling, but for me, the images are enough. I find that when I start writing about what I feel, I become to detached and analytical; whereas, the images reflect the actual emotion.

In the example below, I decided to paint my pain. I was having problems with severe palpitations and blood pressure spikes that would cause migraines. The painting didn't get rid of the problem, but it put me in a calmer state that provided relief. It also gives me some relief by feeling that I accurately expressed what I was feeling.

If you have experienced losing your creative time to unexpected pain or some type of negative energy, you know the feeling of frustration your left with. If your creativity is your source of income, any downtime can cause a missed deadline. Your Daily Doodle Journal can provide you with a method or "therapy" you need to get back on track.

For another method of dealing with negative energy, see my post on reframing. This method will take more time, but is excellent for more stubborn, recurring issues.

I hope you will give method a try. It has worked wonders for me!

As always, your comments are appreciated.

Happy Doodling!

A Creative Challenge of a Different Kind - Manifesting Jobs & Prosperity

2011-09-25T17:36:00.003-04:00

Doodle Therapy
From One Heart to Another
Patricia Kay

My post today is longer than my usual long posts. I hope you will stay for a little while and join me in a creative experiment that I hope will grow large enough to make a difference.

I would like to invite you to participate in a collective experiment using your positive, creative energy to manifest a common goal for the greater good. Don't worry, no commitment of time or money is required! Nothing to sign up for - no deadlines. Just a request to read this post.

I am deeply concerned about the fact that so many families are suffering because of unemployment and the state of our economy here and around the world.

So what does this have to do with creativity or Doodle Therapy?

I believe in the power of positive intent, the law of attraction and the power of one person's focused creative energy to make a difference in this world.

So, I wonder...

If you can use the law of attraction and positive intentions for yourself to manifest a better job or better life, can you do it for someone else, somewhere else? And if it is possible, could the results rise exponentially if creatives and healers everywhere were working on this together all at the same time? Remote healing and prayer circles work, why not this?

What if, through the connection of Twitter, the word was spread to creatives and healers everywhere that our unique creative energy was needed for an experiment dedicated to a higher good - would people respond? Could it become a movement and take on a life of it's own? I believe it can!

So, if I am not asking you for any money or more of your time, how would it work?

Creatives are uniquely suited to this challenge because, when you create, you are already in a manifesting state. So what if, while you are already in that state, you let your thoughts and intentions focus on creating jobs and new industries in general or for someone specifically.

To participate, you would simply dedicate what you are currently working on to some aspect of these issues that you strongly connect with during the entire month of October. If there are enough people doing this for a significant period of time, we could reach a critical mass and achieve great things.

If you would like to be a part of this Manifesting Jobs and Prosperity experiment and truly be a "job creator", the following is just an overview as to how it will work. However, what and how you decide to participate is up to you.

During the month of October, dedicate your creative energies of what you are currently working on to this cause. Your project doesn't have to literally be about this subject.
Ask for guidance on who needs your energy most and where you need to direct it.
State or meditate a positive intention or dedication before you start.
Intend that your project is filled with love and compassion and is intended for a higher good, whatever that may be.
Consider every step of your process as a meditation dedicated to helping someone, somewhere or imagining someone specifically that needs your energy.

Painters - With every stoke of your brush, focus on the creative energy that was just produced. What will it create for someone; who will it help? What colors will you choose to create the energy of your intention? Know that what you create is pulsating with energy and going beyond your paper or canvas and now has a life dedicated to the purpose you intended it to be.
Quilters, Knitters, Crocheters, Sewers, Weavers & Fabric Artists - Focus on every stitch holding together, securing and building momentum to repair, rebuild and provide the basic necessities that someone, somewhere needs. Your designs and patterns create beauty, love, warmth and the softness needed in times that are harsh and cruel.
Doodlers and Zentanglers - With every stroke of your pen or marker, focus on the emergence of your intricate and repetitive patterns representing jobs or people being helped with your positive intentions. Imagine every additional dot or shape as another job created. Your elaborate, complex and intriguing new designs contribute to a new kind of thinking that is needed to create new industries and skills.
Multi-media and Collage Artists - With every layer of your creation, focus on what talent and skill is revealed in your lush designs. What do you envision for someone with these talents? What can you put into your design that showcases all of one's talents and skills that will help them stand out or obtain the connections needed to get a new job. Your designs tell a story at many levels - like each person with a wealth of experience and skills to offer. They just need to get noticed.
Cooks and Bakers - With every ingredient you add to your recipe, focus on the flavors and aromas that you create and your intention that someone has everything that they need for their recipe for success. Your creations provide nourishment not just for the body, but for the soul. The love and care that you stir into your food is what someone, somewhere needs to feel right now to feel strong and confident again.
Jewelry Designers - With every bead you string or stone you set, focus on each one as a source of income for someone in desperate need of finding a job. You create beauty and your creations of adornment symbolize one's style and personal sense of self, which is so deeply traumatized when you are not able to provide for yourself and family. While you are creating beautiful pieces, envision infusing this beauty and richness back into someone's life.
Writers - With every thought and word that you write, focus on the story of someone, somewhere. Can you imagine and create a new chapter for them - one that provides them with everything that they need for a new beginning. Your talent provides you with the ability to imagine what is possible and then create it - a vision that someone needs right now to believe again.
Sculptors, Crafters, Woodworkers, Carpenters and Assemblage Artists - With whatever tools and material you use to mold, form, carve or construct your creation, focus on helping someone, somewhere build a lasting foundation to create a new life or industry. Your skills enable you to create the strength and determination that one needs to face every day with the hope that today they will find a job and it will get better.
Musicians, Singers and Dancers - With every note or step, focus on the beauty, sensitivity and joy you bring to this life. Perform your art with the intent to bring joy and hope back into someones life and that they will be guided in the right direction. You know the sacrifice it takes to stay dedicated to your craft. You know how much you have to believe in yourself to achieve your goals Be the voice to send that message to someone, somewhere who needs to hear it.
Scrapbookers, Art/Raw/Visual Journalers - With every pen or brushstroke, focus on your ability to connect with your feelings and communicate what needs to be said for those that are in need right now. Your creations beautifully and powerfully convey the messages that need to be seen and heard.
Photographers - With every shot you take, focus on someone, somewhere who needs your energy right now. What is the best angle, best view, best light or best shot for them. In your view finder, can your create a beautiful picture of a better life for them. You know how to bring things into sharp focus or soften the glare of harsh reality. Your pictures can provide a vision of a better life.
Healers & Energy Workers - this is an experiment made for you. You already know how to channel healing energy in alignment with another. Your kind and compassionate nature is exactly what this world needs right now to heal and prosper again.

As you probably surmised, I am an idealist and optimist, but I am grounded in reality.

The energy of fear, hate and negativity needs to be countered with positive, loving energy in order to turn this around.

Our leaders are either not able or not willing to find the common ground that is needed to work together in a meaningful and productive way. We can do and achieve what they cannot.
If you know anyone who would be interested. please spread the word and invitation to join the experiment.

There are many of you out there that can take this to another level by way of your followers, websites and connections. Please spread my message and help build the momentum. I would like this to be the spark that starts a movement that tackles a serious problem in a unique way.

It's all about creating energy that affects the collective consciousness that creates the shift, that creates the change. Will you join me?

Please feel free to leave your comments and suggestions for others on what you are doing creatively. But please, no political commentary or negativity. We need to keep the positive energy flowing.

I will keep this post up for the month of October while I work on changes and new material for my blog.

Happy Doodling!

Doodling 101 - Finding Your Doodle Style

2011-09-19T23:08:00.001-04:00

Are you a prolific doodler or a doodle dabbler? Do your doodles flow easily from your pen/marker or are they stuck somewhere in doodle limbo?

If you sometimes find yourself trying to imitate the style of someone else or wishing you could draw like someone else, I would say that you just haven't found your doodle signature yet.

And the best way to discover your doodle style is to set off on a doodle quest. You already have some clues to start you off on your quest - your personality and your personal style (fashion or decor).

Is your personality big and bold, soft and romantic or natural and casual. Chances are your doodle style will reflect that. However, you may find contradictions. For example, if you find that you love bold designs, but are having trouble expressing that in your art, I'm willing to bet that it's a part of your personality that is also having trouble getting expressed adequately.

Here's where Doodle Therapy can help develop and bring that style to life and put you on a path to creative self-expression. Yes, working on (or I should say, playing) developing your creative style will also strengthen your personal self-expression and confidence.

Here's a simple experiment to try to get an idea of your general preference and where to start on your doodle quest. You may be able to answer this without trying the exercise. But if you don't try it, you won't experience the most valuable part of this exercise, which is - discovering what it feels like to draw in a way that is natural to you vs. what feels uncomfortable.

Knowing and responding to "that feeling" will be your inner compass guiding you along your creative journey.

The Straight or Curved Path - Down the Straight and Narrow or Around the Bend

For this exercise, all you need is a sheet of paper or your journal and a pencil or marker.
The goal is to FEEL which type of line is more expressive to you: curved or straight. Seems to simplistic? Please try it anyway. If you have a strong preference, you will feel the difference. And this feeling is what you want to recognize and rely on in the future - the voice of your intuition.
Start filling up one half of your paper with any kind of curving vine, spiral or circular line - preferably one continuous line building up momentum as you draw. Note how you feel while you do this. Is there any tension, discomfort, boredom or distraction? Or do you feel at ease and totally immersed in what you're doing?
Now, try filling up the other half of your paper with any kind of straight, angular forms, and again note how you feel. Even if you don't feel any difference, you should find that certain shapes and lines flow easier than others.
Take time to reflect on the two patterns. Do you find certain elements very appealing? Any surprises?

An interesting thing happened when I first tried this. I love the curvilinear approach to life. My life is a curved line winding in and out, turning here, twisting there. So naturally, I started the exercise with the curved line and progressed to the straight line. And, of course, no surprise, I started feeling tension as I was drawing the straight lines.

I decided to do another page, this time doing the straight designs first. Amazingly, as I then started to draw the curved line, it did not flow in the same way as the first time. There was a carry over of the tension from being in the linear mode.

Working by day, in the business world and land of numbers, I am constantly switching from left brain dominance to right brain and most of the time hovering somewhere in the middle, where I am most comfortable. While I have found ways over the years to get back to a creative state, it was interesting to see how just concentrating on straight lines was enough to tip the balance. Not everyone will have a strong reaction to such a simple exercise.

The main point of this is the importance of finding and developing your style - your Personal Signature. You have a Personal Signature style in your home decor, your fashion preferences and your art.

Developing your style will keep the creative juices flowing. Go in another direction, that is not your own, and you will find the flow disrupted.

Continue this exercise with examples of drawings or patterns you find by other artists. Pick out elements to draw side by side to discover which are easier to draw and which feel more in line with your personal style. Then add your flourishes or slant to put your stamp on it. Keep cultivating your style. And every time you look at another artists work, first appreciate their talent, skill and style, but then, never being critical, envision how you would would do it with your unique personal signature.

And don't forget to keep up or start your Daily Doodle Journal to keep those creative ideas flowing.

Happy Doodling!

Creative Blocks: Comparing Yourself to Others - Finding Inspiration in Yourself

2011-08-28T20:23:00.006-04:00

Do you sometimes find yourself wishing you could draw, paint or create like someone you admire - so much so, that you feel that your work will never be as good? Or worse yet, you concluded that you have no talent, so why bother?

Finding inspiration in the work of fellow creatives can further develop your creativity and personal style, but it can also stifle or create blocks if you place another's skills and talents above your own.

While it may be true that someone else may have highly developed skills and talent with years and years of experience, placing yourself in comparison with them puts you at an unfair disadvantage. And the inner critic will seize on this opportunity to start planting those pesky seeds of doubt.

The thing is, if you had that person's life experience and talents and followed their same path, you might even be better - or - you might still have the same doubts.

I believe that everyone is or has the ability to become more creative. It is part of your being that has been with you from the beginning. Sometimes though, creativity may not have been valued and was discouraged at an early age, or wasn't recognized and given the opportunity to flourish or there may not have been any exposure to the creative arts. But I tell you, there is creativity in every soul - it just needs to be cultivated and allowed to follow its own path whether it be in a studio, kitchen, lab or wherever!

Seeing your creativity develop and blossom as a long, exciting journey taking you to unexpected places and meeting interesting people is the key to disconnecting from those unfair comparisons.

Remember this: Everyone is at a different point on their journey with different skills and talents. They also have unique backgrounds and stories to tell with destinations that are unknown to you. Their art tells their story. It is their perspective, and it is authentic to who they are. It is the expression of their soul.

Finding how to express your voice - what is distinctly you, is what will truly bring joy into your life. That is what the creative journey is all about - finding how to express what is within you and following the voice that will take you further on the journey.

If you try to work in the style of someone you admire, do it for the experience of exploration and experimentation, but add your own twist to it. If you try to make it your style, you'll never be truly satisfied. It will always look like that person who is dressed up in a style that is totally out of character for them.

If, what you create, is a reflection of who you are, you will better appreciate and become inspired by the work of others rather than compare your work to theirs.

Find ways to inspire yourself. Be willing to experiment with different materials and techniques. Find the tools and materials that feel the most comfortable and expressive to you. Sometimes, switching to a different medium or tool is the key to unleashing your creativity.

Approach your experimentation and journey with a sense of adventure and fun. Find the joy in the process, not the end product. The more you are willing to explore, the further along you will be in your journey. And the more you do, the more you will see your personal style evolve. It's like learning a new language. With practice, you will become fluent.

Flattened - Journal entry done when energy was very low

The Daily Doodle Journal is an easy way to document your progress. The Daily Doodle Journal is different in its approach to visual journaling in that the focus is on a mind-body connection to bring out what is within. Simple doodles and quick drawings like the one on the right, emerge from what one if feeling at the moment. Intuition guides your hand. Creative impulses are given total freedom. The emphasis is not on a completed work of art, but the emerging personal symbols and style. It is an outlet for releasing negative energy and seeing what it looks like on paper.

In short, it is a visual documentary on the evolution of your creative spirit!

Use the Daily Doodle Journal as a separate journal if you already have or prefer an art journal. It will give you the space to do "creative warm ups" and clear out any negative energy that might be holding you back.

Keep the Daily Doodle Journal for doodles or scribbles when trying to come up with a new idea or trying to get through some creative block or problem.

Words can be added, but I think you will find that the images will reveal far more and will speak to you at a much deeper level. Referencing back to them at another time can reveal even more.

Another way to help develop your style and discover your personal symbols, is the exercise I described in Drawing to Music. If you play music you absolutely love, that actually makes you want to move to the music, you will find that your style will be much easier to access. Interestingly, you may also find that your creative style probably has some type of visual connection to the type of music you enjoy.

Click here - Daily Doodle Journal - for more info on how to set up yours.

How do you inspire yourself and develop your creativity? Please feel free to leave a comment about what works for you. I'd also love to know if you started a Doodle Journal.

Happy Doodling!

Visual Journaling - Transforming Negative Energy With Reframing

2011-08-21T18:22:00.001-04:00

The highly expressive art of visual journaling is one of the most effective practices/therapies for personal growth and self-reflection. The power of art and doodling to inspire healing and transformation has been a well known secret that has finally gone mainstream with the now readily available products, books, blogs and magazines.

Just the recording and capturing of your feelings and personal journey in a journal is therapeutic. But if you are using your visual journal to work through issues or to relieve stress, the process can be transformational.

One technique that you may want to incorporate into your visual journaling practice is reframing. Reframing is the ability to take a thought, idea or emotion and flip it to see it from a different or opposite perspective. Adding reframing to your journaling adds the element of resolution, which may be appropriate for your journal. If it doesn't fit with the style of your journaling, but you like the idea of reframing, you may want to consider a separate journal for problem solving.

To use reframing in your journaling, you would use it as a 3-step process.

First, create your page or an image expressing something that is causing stress, negative energy or pain.
After taking some time to take in and reflect on what you created and the feelings it brings up, try to envision the image in another light.
Allow your feelings and energy to guide you. Don't think it; feel it! If you feel the urge to draw or paint something totally foreign in style to you, fight the urge to ignore it - put it on paper!
If what you are feeling is very intense, you may need to do a few additional pages, allowing the intensity to dissipate naturally in stages.
Many techniques can be used to reframe or replace an image, but most importantly, it will work best if it is a natural progression, rather than forced.
Sometimes, just a change in color selection can transform the look and feel. If you used bold or dark colors, try using something softer or brighter for your reframed image. If the colors were intense and warm, try cooling off the look with soothing cool tones.
You can use the same elements and shapes in a different setting or background or use something that is a similar shape for reframing.

For example, I did a drawing of a mushroom cloud and scorched earth, which in itself, deflated much of the toxic energy that I was feeling. When some of that energy dissipated, the image that came to me was a tree, which I drew in a similar shape to the mushroom cloud. That image and the process of drawing it helped shift my energy to a more positive state.

Doodle Therapy - Criticism - Patricia Kay

In the example above, I was dealing with my "old friend", criticism. I say old friend, because it has been in my life so long and doesn't seem to be ready to leave any time soon. So, I decided to reframe it and just consider it an annoying friend that takes aim at me, but can't penetrate my new protective force field show below.

Doodle Therapy - Energy Force Field - Patricia Kay

Use the style of visual journaling that you prefer. Reframing works well whether you use a raw style, simple doodles or a mixed media layered technique. For myself, I like to use quick doodles done in pencil that resemble my energy state at the moment and continue drawing additional pages until I feel a shift in energy to a more positive state.

If I am feeling or experiencing something more disruptive that I need to work through, I will do something more detailed and in color. I also make these images more simplistic or child-like to better express the emotion.

While I love the bold, more complex, layered techniques and using journaling in the image, I prefer to write on the opposite page of my journal - it's just my personal preference. I find that for me, the more involved and detailed the image, the more involved I become in the completed project instead of the process of dealing with the feeling. Simple, quick drawings help me maintain my focus. I also like to refer back to my pages and would rather "feel" what the image has to convey to me in my current state of mind without the influence of the words.

I recommend though, that whatever approach to take, that you follow your heart and do these exercises in a style that is in your own voice. Only then will it ring true and put you on the path to personal growth and transformation.

If you're like me and love to immerse yourself in the inspiration of beautiful art from kindred spirits, the following books will take you on a journey to explore and further develop your technique and creativity. And for more information on starting your Daily Doodle Journal, click this link.

Happy Doodling!

Scrapbookers: Take Your Creativity to A New Level

2011-08-14T23:28:00.005-04:00

Doodle Therapy - Pink Sorbet - Patricia Kay

There are thousands of beautiful background pages for scrapbooking. But, if you're a seasoned pro or looking for a new approach, why not create your own?

Sometimes you have a special page that needs a unique and special background that you just can't find. If you follow some of the techniques that I outlined in Meditative Painting and Recycled Art, you will end up with a collection of your own original art to use for your backgrounds and embellishments.

I love to paint layered background-type paintings as a stress reliever and meditative practice. Some I leave untouched and others I use for paper mosaics or other art projects.

For this post, I'll focus on three ways to use your meditative paintings to create your own original art.

The example above was created by using a simple painting technique with acrylic paint on smooth Bristol paper. See Meditative Painting for more information on what you will need, the how-to's and painting style choices.

Doodle Therapy - Blue Energy - Patricia Kay

The paints were thinned with water to create a transparent watercolor-like glaze. A basic horizontal brushstroke from edge to edge was used, letting it fade and intensify sporadically. Alternating orange and raspberry, layer after layer, blended the colors. Multiple layers can be used until the desired effect is achieved.

Or you can try something like the example to the right, using a fan brush with a swirling brushstroke.

Don't worry if it doesn't come out exactly as you expected. To me, imperfections are perfect as they are. But, if you are not satisfied with the results, you can use the mosaic method, which gives you the option of cutting away the offending flaw.

If you are satisfied, you now have a page that is ready to use without cutting it into paper mosaic tiles. If you used a paper smaller than 12x12, you can mount it on a coordinating, solid color sheet of your choice.

For the paper mosaic technique, cut the painted paper into various strips, squares or punched shapes. In the example at the top of the page, the painting was cut into 1 inch squares, along with 1 inch and 3/4 inch circles, glued onto Bristol vellum. It was then mounted on a coordinating color. You can use it as is, but if you want to cut down on the thickness and weight of the page, photograph it and have it printed.

To make this design more ideal for a scrapbook page, I would add squares to cover a larger area or use the squares for smaller design areas to create different sections or elements on the page. This example is just to give you an idea of how to create a mosaic pattern from your painting.

You can also cut larger sections to create panels, borders or accent elements.

In the example below, the same design used at the top, was photographed and cropped to create yet another version of the original painting. Using the camera's software, it was given a cool tint and the contrast was then softened to to give it a lighter quality.

Once you have finished altering your photograph of your painting, you may want to have this printed at a copy store to ensure that the ink doesn't fade or smudge. Just ask for acid free paper.

Doodle Therapy - Pink Sorbet Tic Tac Toe - Patricia Kay

For the page further below, have fun dabbing paint with various sized fluffy, round brushes to create a page full of circles and dots. By using thinned paints as glazes, a more luminous look can be achieved. You can create bold and bright or light and airy designs that reflect your mood and personality - all in a simplified technique.

Try your hand at creating your own background papers for photos that need something unique or customized.

When you're ready to start, take yourself back to the time and place where you were when the shot was taken. Bring back those memories and feelings and then select your colors that express those memories.

Recreate those feelings in your brushstrokes - just follow your creative impulses. Dab, streak or swirl the paint in whatever feels right. If it doesn't come out exactly as expected, keep it for another day. You'll find that anything you create in this way will be just the perfect choice for what you will need somewhere down the road.

On the other hand, if you can envision it potential and beauty cut and designed into a beautiful mosaic piece, you will see that it is exactly as you intened it to be.

Doodle Therapy - Puffs - Patricia Kay

Continue creating your own original art for your scrapbook pages so you have a collection to choose from. Your pages will truly stand out as uniquely and distinctly you.

Looking for more inspiration? Try painting your pages to music. See my post on Drawing to Music. And don't forget to keep up or start your Daily Doodle Journal to keep those creative ideas flowing.

Happy Doodling!

Creative Stress Relief - Meditative Painting

2011-07-24T21:54:00.002-04:00

Doodle Therapy - Blueness - Patricia Kay

Looking for a creative way to relax? Have trouble sitting still to meditate? Meditative painting might be just the thing you're looking for. No painting skill or experience necessary - only a desire to relax and become more creative.

Whether you are without any experience, or a seasoned pro, this method takes you deeper into the creative process by letting your intuition take the lead. This approach is also a great way to overcome the creative block of not knowing where to start or what you would like to create. There is no object of subject to paint or think about.

The Body-Mind Connection of Meditative Painting

This method is all about feeling at several levels. A desired state can be achieved by letting outwhat is going on inside, or by bringing in what is needed. By that, I mean, the body-mind connection is a two-way, expressive channel that can be used to your benefit. Negative or stressful energy can flow out onto the paper, or positive, relaxing, healing energy from what was painted can be brought inward.

Which way you choose will be up to you and what your are feeling at the moment. Generally, if you are feeling very unsettled or anxious - express what you are feeling. If you are experiencing low energy, boredom or no direction, you need to bring uplifting energy in.

So how do you do this? You will need to depend a lot on your own intuition and follow its direction.

Here's What You Will Need:

Acrylic Paint - I use Liquitex. If you don't have paint on hand and are not sure what colors to purchase, use this as your guide. First, select colors you love. Pick a few that you find exciting and uplifting to use when your energy is low. Then select a few that you find soothing, peaceful and pleasing when you need to achieve a calmer and serene state.
Brushes - A variety of brushes will give you the ability to be more expressive in your meditative paintings. You don't need any specific size, but include larger rounds and flats, along with fans and mops. Fans will allow you to add expressive textures and "punctuation" to your painting. Mops and wash brushes are great for dreamy-like washes of color or for covering a large area with color. If you do not have any brushes, you can find variety packs at varying costs and quality. Choose what fits your budget. Pick the ones that appeal to you and select what you are drawn to - that's your intuition guiding you.
Paper - I use various size pads of Bristol Vellum. It's inexpensive and will not buckle. I find that if I use something that is not expensive, I am freer to experiment.
Optional - Glazing medium can be added to the paint to thin it and create transparent layers. But adding water to thin the paint works just fine.
Miscellaneous - You will need cups or jars for water - use one for a first rinse and a second for a final rinse, a palette or plate for mixing paint, paper towels for cleanup and mishaps and a protective surface under your paper.

How-to's:

Take a minute to reflect on what you are feeling and where you feel it in your body. Ask yourself a few questions: Do you feel the need to release tension or bring uplifting energy in? Do you feel a build up of stress or not enough positive energy. The need to release tension or stress would indicate that allowing that energy to flow out onto the paper would be the best approach. If you're feeling low energy and need uplifting, you can paint what that looks like or you can choose to paint in a way that would give you the energy you need. I will explain how as we go along.
Line up all your paint colors. Looking at the colors you have available, which colors are you drawn to? What do you want to reach for? These are the colors your intuition is telling you that you need. Every color has its own energy level and can help to raise or lower yours. The colors you choose will have the most impact on your reaction to the painting, so follow your intuition.

As an example, let's just say that you are gravitating to a bright red. You could be drawn to this because you are feeling something intensely in a negative way that needs to be released or you could be feeling the need of its strong energy to elevate yours. You could logically conclude that if you are feeling intense stress, that a softer or lower energy color might be a better choice to bring about calmness - and that would be true.

But I would suggest that when there is strong gravitation to a color - go with that. The need for a color or feeling to be expressed may be stronger than the need to sooth or calm it. The therapy in this process is trusting your intuition to take you in the right direction.

Now, for the fun part! You can approach the way you paint in a number of ways. First, pick a brush you want to use in the same way you chose your color. When you start to paint, you can dab paint quickly across the paper, streak broad strokes of color or add squiggly lines or dots. But most importantly, approach it in a child-like manner - don't think about it - just do what you feel like doing and don't hold back.
To begin, I like to thin my paint with a little water or glazing medium to make it more transparent. This technique will allow the layers and details below to blend and still be seen.
I usually start with a big fluffy mop brush and let the brush dance across the page in swirls and circular motions - it creates the texture of my first layer and instantly calms me. However, you can use a large flat brush, fan or any brush you like to start your first layer. I might do this step repeatedly with the same color to intensify it or an alternating color that appeals to me - allowing the paint to dry in between layers.
How you use your brush to express what you are feeling is what is important. The intensity of the stroke, the marks and patterns created, the movement and rhythm used, all create the message and feel of the painting. The color creates the energy and mood. You can do similar brush strokes layer after layer or switch it up. Let your intuition lead your hand. Go with what you feel like doing, not what you think you should do. As with regular meditation, you need to turn off the mind.
If you want to achieve a calmer or meditative state, use slower, repetitive brush strokes. For some a curving, meandering movement will be more relaxing and soothing. For others, the preference may be a straighter more linear approach.
Check in with how you are feeling. If you are losing track of time and feeling more serene - you're on the right track. If you're getting bored or tense, change the way you are painting. Either use a different brush, brush stroke or different color. Keep changing until the tension melts away.
You can use just one color for the entire painting, creating textures and patterns by using different brushes and brush strokes, one color plus black or use multiple colors like the one below. Again, follow your intuition.

Doodle Therapy - Ripples - Patricia Kay

Notice how the fan brush was used to create swirls in this painting. Depending on your taste, you may find this type of repetitive brush stroke very soothing to do or very annoying. For me, it puts me in a meditative state - I'm really not painting anymore, it is more of an "active meditation". Remember: the goal of this method is to achieve the same benefits you would obtain from meditation, not the end product of the painting.
Experiment with your brush strokes. Quick, strong brush strokes like streaks and splashes are great for getting out excessive energy. Dots and curvy lines can convey a more upbeat energy. Straight lines, boxes and triangles can bring about more order. Use lines and shapes that appeal to you. They are the symbols of your creative language. You will soon find which ones bring you to a calm, meditative state and which ones can unlock and release negative energy.

If you would like more ideas on how to create paintings like these that can be used for art projects, I recommend reading Painted Paper, Techniques & Projects for Handmade Books and Cards, by Alisa Golden and Collage With Color, Create Unique Expressive Collages in Vibrant Color, by Jane Davies.

Painted Paper offers a multitude of techniques that are explained very well and illustrated beautifully. If you are a scrapbooker looking to create original art for your background pages, try meditation painting or the techniques described in these books.

Collage With Color is filled with bright and "happy" paintings. For me, just paging through the book gets me energized. The techniques and projects are simple and easy to understand. If you're looking for inspiration, this book has plenty of it. Try some of her techniques, then try using them in your mediation painting.

Once your painting is finished, take some time to look at it and reflect on what you created. Did the process lower your stress level or raise your energy to a positive state? If it didn't and you have the time, try another painting.

Hold on to your paintings and use them for reflective meditation. You will find that if you experience the same feelings again, just gazing at these will help you relax or energize. A great benefit when you don't have the time to sit down and create a new painting.

Another great way to release stress or raise your energy level is Drawing to Music. See my post on how to do this and try painting to music and don't forget to keep up your Daily Doodle Journal.

Happy Doodling!

Doodling Inside the Box - Square Mandala

2011-07-16T12:51:00.001-04:00

Doodle Therapy - Square Mandala - Patricia Kay

What is your doodle style? Do you doodle big and bold or tiny and delicate? Are your designs linear and orderly or curvy and flowing?

Some people are prolific doodlers. Put a pen in their hand and they just start doodling. Others may approach doodling like a puzzle - contemplating each section of the design and figuring out what to do next.

Whether you have a highly developed doodling technique or prefer simple design, doodling's expressive nature can provide you with more than just a creative outlet. As I have mentioned many times in my posts, doodling can be used to become more creative, for creative problem solving or to express yourself in a visual journal.

In the following exercise, try your hand at creating your design inside a framework. You will be creating a square mandala. Yes, I know mandalas are round, and you can stick to the circle if you prefer. But this is about trying something new - stepping outside of the box. Except in this case, you will be doodling inside the boxes!

The concept of the mandala is that everything is contained in the circle - it symbolizes wholeness. Mandalas have long been used for healing and transformation, which is why they are perfect for doodle therapy. Your creation will provide you with a tool for reflection and meditation.

In traditional mandalas, the circle is either methodically divided into sections or randomly divided with a general theme or concept that may not be apparent at the start. Designs are usually repetitive, but can be done in any way that you like.

If you would like more information on mandalas, I highly recommend, Mandala, Journey to the Center, by Bailey Cunningham. This book is a beautiful collection of illustrations and photographs that document mandalas throughout history and in nature. It is truly an inspirational and uplifting book.

CREATING A SQUARE MANDALA

This a great project for doodlers of any skill level. If you are an advanced doodler, try this exercise to showcase and expand your doodle style. If you are a newbie doodler, this is an excellent tool to develop your technique by using more manageable squares to make the design process easier. All you need is to fill them in.

To set up your mandala template, make a nine inch square divided into nine 3 inch squares like the one above. Of course, you can make them any size you want, with any number of squares. Just keep in mind that the center in a mandala is the focus, so you will want to have an odd number of squares to create the balance of a circle.
Use pencils, markers, crayons or whatever you like to create your design. A variety of Sharpies and Micron pens were used in the example above.
You may want to fill in your center square first with whatever you feel the urge to draw. This will give you the direction or the general look of the mandala. But, I always recommend to start wherever you feel is the best spot to start. If you follow your intuition, the rest will flow.
You may want to further divide up your square into triangles, smaller squares, rectangles or diamonds to create a more complex design for advanced doodlers or more manageable sized doodling spaces for beginners.
Your design can be simple or intricate - it's just a matter of taste.
Continue to fill in the areas until it's finished to your satisfaction.
If you like, embellish your outer edges as well. You may even feel compelled to put a circle around the design to make it a traditional mandala.

Once your mandala is complete, take the time to reflect on the design you created. What have you placed in the center? What insights or feelings does it bring up?

As you make more mandalas, you may notice recurring themes or symbols. You may see subtle changes in your style and technique as you progress and grow.

In her book, Creating Mandalas for Insight, Healing and Self-Expression, Suzanne Fincher, provides a chapter on colors and symbolic meanings of the motifs you may find in your mandala. This is an excellent book on creating and interpreting your design.

If you find that this exercise has piqued your interest in mandalas and you're ready to take it to the next level, a must read is Judith Cornell's book, Mandala, Luminous Symbols for Healing.

I first read this book more than ten years ago. It has been a huge source of positive energy for me. No matter how often I open that book to reflect and contemplate the beauty I find in these illustrations, I continue to be inspired and mesmerized by the light that illuminates from them.

The technique she showcases in this book uses colored pencils on black paper. To get the highly illuminated effect, she uses a white pencil to create various gradations of white as a foundation underneath the layers of color. The effect is awesome!

Whether your are interested in mandalas or art in general - get this book! It's not a once read - you'll refer to it over and over again, and be inspired each and every time!

Why not become inspirational yourself? Try her techniques and the ones described here on this site. Try some of the experimental art exercises and see where your creative journey takes you.

And don't forget to keep up your Daily Doodle Journal to keep those creative juices flowing.

Happy Doodling!

Do You Doodle?

2011-06-26T23:51:00.002-04:00

Doodle Therapy - Psychedelic Yin-Yang - Patricia Kay

A doodle can be random scribbles, dreamy florals, ornate motifs, linear mazes or intricate, complex designs. While common design elements are used, doodles are as unique as the person creating them.

Have you ever watched someone doodling? They seem to be transported to another place - relaxed, but fixated on their creation. You even begin to find yourself more relaxed just watching them.

What makes doodling different from drawing and sketching?

What sets doodling apart from drawing and sketching, is that doodling is more a reflection of an inner state - a snapshot of what one is feeling or what is going on at that moment. And that, in itself, is the biggest benefit of doodling.

I find that drawing is more deliberate with an expected outcome, while doodling is a more spontaneous process that is more open to creative and expressive impulses. Not only that, there is less judgment of the outcome.

Doodling, as an art form, is not taken very seriously; after all, it's just - doodling! Right?

So, here you have a creative activity that:

allows you to scribble, draw or design anywhere from a simple or cartoon-like style to one that is highly skilled or complex.
can look silly, weird, fantasy-like or childish to sophisticated, organic or intriguing.
does not have to be perfect - can even be totally awful.
allows you to express your mood - good or bad.
releases tension, stress or negative energy.
can bring about an open and receptive creative state.
can help one to identify and recognize the symbols of one's mental and emotional state at any given time.

If you ask me, I think that's a pretty impressive and powerful art form! Just by doodling and observing your current state, you can reframe or redirect your energy to anything you choose, simply by changing how and what you doodle or by letting the process flow naturally until a shift takes place.

If you don't doodle - you should try it! It can be used:

as a tool for personal growth and transformation if it is done regularly in the Daily Doodle Journal.
to develop creativity and be the vehicle for your creative journey.
to bring yourself into a higher level of positive energy.

I use doodling as a daily practice primarily to release stress and keep the creative channels open. For me, having even just a few minutes each day of creative release, is very therapeutic and keeps the creative juices flowing.

The example above is quite different than the technique I use in my Daily Doodle Journal. In my daily entries, (examples below) I do quick, simple drawings that relate to how I am feeling both physically and emotionally and reflect my energetic state. I follow my intuition and creative impulses rather than any pre-conceived idea as to what to draw. The result is spontaneous and more natural looking - and sometimes a little "unusual".

Doodle Therapy - Patricia Kay

Doodle Therapy -
Finding a Delicate Balance
Patricia Kay

If I am stressed or disconnected, my doodles will reflect that. When I am not in a positive state, I will continue with additional pages until there is a shift in my energy, which will be very obvious in the drawing and how you feel.

The main purpose of the Daily Doodle Journal is not to create beautiful drawings in the journal, but rather to draw in a way that is more expressive and intuitive to enhance well-being, develop creativity and increase positive energy. It is my therapy!

Doodling for Creative Problem Solving

Doodling is also an effective way to stimulate the mind for creative ideas and problem solving. When you're doodling, your thought process changes. You're in a more receptive and clear state of mind.

Need a creative idea, a solution to a problem or need to make a choice? Try this exercise:

Write down your need/problem and any ideas or obstacles that you have.
Take a few minutes to go over your thoughts.
Now, using whatever you prefer - pencil, marker or crayons, start to scribble or draw, using lines, squiggles, dots or slash marks in whatever way you are feeling. By that, I mean, if you are feeling frazzled or confused, you might express that with zig-zagging Ines scribbled across the paper. Or if you're feeling very low energy and don't know where to start, you might have light, spotty or droopy lines that look like they're going nowhere. That's perfect, you want to start where you are and progress to where you want to be.

Caution: Do not judge what comes out on the paper - it will only stifle the creative process.

Follow any urge you have to draw something - no matter how "out there" you perceive it to be. Honor what you intuition is telling you by putting it on paper. It might just be a symbol or clue to the answer or solution you are looking for.
Your doodling does not have be be an elaborate design. It can be just a few lines or simple image (like the example above). When you feel that it is complete, start a new page.

I usually spend only a few minutes or even a few seconds on a page and then continue with additional pages until I see and feel a shift in my energy and drawing. When the shift happens, you will see a distinct difference in the look and style of your doodle. It will be either more free and relaxed or more intricate and defined. At this point, if you haven't received an answer, you can continue with additional pages or walk away to allow the ideas to start percolating. I like to do this before I go to bed. Usually, by morning I will have my answer. Bigger issues may take several days - with obstacles or negative ideas popping up that need to be addressed.

You can also deliberately draw images of what you are trying to achieve or get to in order to reframe or direct the process. I prefer letting the process flow at its own pace. For me, reframing, which I will discuss in another post, works better on something that I want to change that is known.

Sometimes, this process is not what gives you the idea or answer. Instead, it clears all the clutter in your thinking to allow the creative process to start flowing again.

The Power of the Simple Doodle

For the cost of a pad of paper and pencil, you can get lasting stress relief, become more creative, solve problems, overcome obstacles, eliminate negative energy and change your mood. That's pretty cheap therapy!

Happy Doodling!

Experimental Art - Monoprints With a Twist - Part II

2011-06-19T13:17:00.001-04:00

Doodle Therapy - Monoprint - Green Wings - Patricia Kay
Air Brush Paint on Paper

Creative expression of any kind has the ability to transport you to a state of being that can heal, relax and transform your spirit.

It can provide you with an outlet to eliminate negative energy or to bring positive energy in. For me, expressive, experimental art and doodling is all I need to eliminate any stress and find inner balance.

But what about the times when you would like to create something, but just don't know what you want to do? What about when you're just feeling stuck or tired or bored and would like something that gives you quick results? What if you don't have the time and you need a little creative energy and instant gratification? If your're in need of a creative boost, this experimental art technique will get the creative juices flowing.

In my preious post, I described the how-to's of creating quick and easy monoprints with a twist by adding paint mediums for intricate and intriguing designs. In this post, I would like to focus on the use of this technique for creative development and the creative journey.

If you are in real need of creative rejuvenation, stress relief or creative escape, I highly recommend that you try this technique. Because these paintings "paint themselves", there is no pressure on you to produce some pre-conceived outcome.

The process becomes the focus. You provide the choice of colors, amount of paint and the expressive touch of your hands to create your painting, but the results will be the unknown.

If you're willing to go with the flow of the process, you will find yourself in a more relaxed and reflective state. One that is more conducive to healing, growth and expanding creative development.

This is also a great activity for kids or seniors alike. My 81 year old mother created the one below. Using your fingers and hands to magically design the drizzled and squiggled paint is fun and appeals to one's sense of adventure. Discovering the surprise design when the painting is revealed is truly joyful.

Doodle Thereapy - Monoprint - Posies - Norma Kay
Acrylics and Gloss Medium on Paper

Give this technique a try - you'll find yourself totally engaged in the process and making many more. For complete instructions and more examples, click Monoprints With a Twist.

And don't forget your Daily Doodle Journal! Even if you can only devote five minutes for a quick little doodle, keeping up the practice will keep the creative channels open.

Happy Doodling!

Experimental Art - Monoprints With a Twist

2011-06-13T00:47:00.004-04:00

Body of Pink - Doodle Therapy - Patricia Kay

Looking for a quick shot of creativity with very little effort? Try the old art of monoprinting. It's easy, has the element of surprise and you'll find yourself making one after the other.

Monoprints are nothing new. The method I use is like the one you might have done in grade school, where you put drops o paint on a folded sheet of paper, and then peel back the paper to reveal your design.

The twist is the addition of different painting mediums to create intricate designs with lots of texture and luminosity. You will be able to create designs with very organic-like texture that would be difficult to reproduce by hand.

I love the spontaneity and instant gratification of this technique. If you are not a painter, but would like to experiment with painting, this is a great way to start. If you're an artist looking for something new and fun, this back to basics technique with a twist might just be the creativity booster you've been looking for.

For this experimental art exercise, you won't need any special plates or brayers, just a pad of bristol vellum paper, paint (suggestions below) and various paint mediums (listed below).

You will need:

Any size bristol vellum paper or whatever you prefer
Paints - acrylics (artist or craft) or air brush paint
Your choice of painting mediums - gloss, gel, glazing, pouring, iridescent

Here's how it's done:

You will need two sheets of paper. You will use one for your paint and mediums, the other, you will place on top of the paper with the paint.

You will need to work quickly so that your paper doesn't stick together.

On a covered or protected surface, squirt, drizzle or drop paint randomly across the paper. Then do the same with the medium.

Caution: too much paint and you'll end up with a solid mass of paint; too little paint and your paper will stick together. Use less paint near the edges of the paper to prevent paint from oozing out when pressure is applied.

Carefully, line up your second sheet of paper to place on top of the painted sheet - if you would like it to be a mirror image, line it up exactly (all corners matching). Don't take too long doing this or your paper will stick together.
Use your hands intuitively to press and sweep across the top of your paper. Paint will ooze out from the sides, so make sure your working on a protected surface and have paper towels ready for cleaning off your hands.

This is the magical part of the process because it is the way that you quickly sweep across, lightly pat or finger dance across the paper along with how you sprinkled your paint and medium, that will spontaneously create your monoprint. Your hands become the press.

Caution: Pressing too hard and too long will cause your paper to stick together.

Now, for the ooh part:

Just peel back a corner to reveal your surprise design.

The end result will give you random areas where the medium has blended with the paint or is clear on the paper.

Using the airbrush paint creates these great textured and transparent areas. However, rather than buying a lot of extra paint, try using a gel or glazing medium with your acrylic paint for a similar look.

What is really cool about your twin paintings is that you can cut exact portions from each sheet of paper to use in collages or side by side display (like the one above) and no matter which way you turn them, they will match.

In the example above, air brush paint from the bottle was used with iridescent medium. Air brush paint will work differently than acrylics in that it doesn't move or spread easily. You will tend to get a lot of round splotches if you don't use enough paint. You can mist some water on the paint before you press. You will also find that it is tackier than acrylics when dry.

In the example below, Liquitex acrylics were used with gloss medium.

Eclipse of the Heart - Doodle Therapy - Patricia Kay

Use your intuition to pick pleasing colors. Add the mediums or just use the paint alone. When you add the second sheet on top, use your hands and fingers to express how you feel - light hearted, tense, indifferent - whatever the energy, this is the alchemy that will transform your drizzles and drops into an intriguing design.

I hope you will take the time to try this simple technique. It will uplift your creative spirit and help you move through any creative block. Any stress that was lingering will quickly melt away as you get lost in the transformative process of creation.

Don't forget to keep up your Daily Doodle Journal. If you haven't started, click on the link to find out how.

Happy Doodling!

Art For Healing and Transformation

2011-06-05T22:59:00.001-04:00

The power of the arts (art, music, dance, writing etc) to heal the body, mind and spirit has been documented and studied extensively.

I'd like to say upfront that I am not an art therapist. I am a creative soul on my own healing journey and would like to pass on to you what I have learned along the way.

In my quest to find inner balance and serenity, I use experimental art, expressive art, doodling and writing to clear away any stress and negativity.

There are many ways to use the arts to achieve a more positive state of being. The simplest act of just coloring, dancing or listening to music that uplifts you can be enough to melt away stress and tension.

However, if what you are really seeking is a way to dig deeper for personal growth and well-being, then you may want to try more expressive approaches.

An expressive approach means you are creating what you feel - it's about the process of creation - about getting to what is underneath the surface and allowing it to be seen or dealt with. Your end product is not so much the object created, but instead, what was revealed to you in the process.

It requires you to develop a tolerance to look at something that might not be acceptable or what was intended. If you are open and willing to let go of what has been holding you back, you will find yourself on a path to self discovery. A path that can lead you to better understand yourself and uncover hidden strengths and talents.

I recommend using a Daily Doodle Journal for many reasons:

When you doodle, you are more apt to doodle what you feel - you are more connected with your inner state.
It is more spontaneous, with less expectation of a certain outcome.
You can do one quick entry or do a few quick pages until you see the energy shift.
If done on a daily basis, over time, you will see patterns emerge that you are able to identify as certain emotional states.
This daily practice allows you to take a slower approach to personal growth and change that is much easier to accomplish.

Periodically, trying other techniques will help develop and transform your creative spirit. With practice, you will find your personal creative style evolve and become more distinct. But, there will be times when you might want to use a more abstract, primitive or child-like approach to your work.

This allows you to get to the heart of the matter more quickly. It allows you to better express what you are feeling at the moment.

In the example below, I used tempera paint on bristol vellum. I was in a positive state and had a positive outlook about where I was with my life, but there were some "remains" of where I had been lingering on in the background. This painting is a great example of reframing - taking a negative image and putting it info a more positive light. I will expand on this concept in another post.

The dark image of the bullet riddled, bandaged and wounded heart was not the intention at the start. The process started happily with the long curving strokes in the middle. When I added the black strokes, feelings of the past started to creep in. I tried to fend off them off, but they just wouldn't go away. I wanted my paining to be "pretty". I finally gave in and painted the wounded heart. And once I did, the remainder started to flow with the symbols of rebirth and transformation.

I have never felt compelled to draw or paint embryo-like images, but that is what I felt compelled to do at that moment and didn't understand it. While I felt a lot of hesitation to put it in the painting, I was also feeling a great release of positive energy. I still have that same conflict when looking at it.

It may seem like an odd image to someone if they are observing it with the expectation that artwork is meant to be displayed. This type of art is done strictly for what it reveals to its creator and sometimes it is better left for their eyes only. Otherwise they may leave themselves open to others' criticism as they try to understand it or judge its level of expertise.

In taking a risk putting this out there, I hope you will see the value in what is being revealed. Writing in a journal would never have adequately conveyed the message and feeling that this painting reveals.

So my challenge to you is:

Can you allow the images that want to appear to emerge in your creations?
Can you refrain from judging them harshly?
Can you appreciate and recognize what is being revealed to you?

Two great books that I highly recommend for more in-depth information on this subject:

Art and Healing - Using Expressive Art to Heal Your Body, Mind and Spirit by Barbara Ganim and...
Point Zero - Creativity Without Limits by Michelle Cassou

Happy Doodling!

Experimental Art - Recycled Art

2011-05-29T15:49:00.003-04:00

Woodland Spirits

When you are willing to try new creative techniques, new products or to use materials in a different way, a great sense of adventure and expectation takes over.

Often, you're rewarded with pleasant surprises and stunning results. But, sometimes the results are disappointing or even a total flop.

I firmly believe though, that whatever the results are, taking time to experiment with new techniques and materials will take you on a creative journey that will unleash your creativity and develop your unique creative spirit.

To some, getting past the disappointing results is difficult. Sometimes, the desire to quit isn't an emotional reaction, but more of a practical reaction - to continue would be a waste of materials.

So, what I would like to talk about today, is seeing the beauty in "flops" and recycled art. I save all of my "experiments" not matter how bad I perceive them to be.

I would suggest that every piece that doesn't meet your expectations should be looked at for its potential.

Is there a part of it that you do like?
Could it be used in another project or remade into something else altogether?
Or could you keep it and just see it as a memento of the creative journey?

One of my favorite art recycling projects is to trim off the parts of paintings or drawings that I like and use the remainder of the piece for paper mosaics, collage or paper weaving. Sometimes, their second life as recycled art is more beautiful and what they were really intended to be.

Just knowing that my new art experiment I'm about to plunge into will not be wasteful and will become something beautiful no matter what way it turns out, gives me the confidence to jump in without hesitation.

In the example above, I was trying out a new product that I thought would be fun to experiment with - Liquitex Pouring Medium. This product, used with Liquitex soft body acrylic paint, creates these awesome, swirling, glossy pools of color that spread across the paper. All you need to do is tilt and move the paper in different directions and watch as the paining develops itself.

It is that process of being totally immersed in directing the flow and movement of the paint while letting go of control of the end result that is both exciting and calming to me at the same time.

I like to do monoprints, where I use random shots of paint and mediums (which I will explain in another post). So, I thought I would use the pouring medium in the same way. I didn't have any spare bottles to mix each color with the pouring medium, so I just squirted the medium over green, blue, yellow and black paint that was drizzled over bristol vellum paper.

Because I didn't premix the colors, it didn't come out quite as I hoped. However, there were these great areas of very organic-looking "mini paintings" that were perfect for cropping. So, rather than discard it, I now have many pieces to work into other projects or to display alone - like the one above. This piece is only 1" by 2.5" - a lot of detail is packed into such a tiny piece.

Tiny works of art can be used in framing. Mounted on colored card stock or a painted background with a wide border and matt, they look more substantial. They can be used alone or in multiples from the same painting or with others.

Photographing the work opens up even more possibilities of new art. You can crop and enlarge an image, alter the color, contrast and look. I'm new to photography and the thought of all this new potential for recycling my old works has set me off on new adventures in my creative journey.

Recommendations:

Purchase a good quality, larger paper cutter.
If you are a OK with recycling a piece, cut it into a variety of strips for weaving or bookmarks and squares for mosaics, framed display or other projects.
Use clear, storage containers with plenty of compartments to store your paper pieces by color.
Depending on your taste, there are many suitable papers, but I prefer to use a smooth bristol vellum.

Recommended Reading:

I recently came across a wonderful little book called, Inchies - Create Miniature Works of Art Using Textiles and Mixed Media Techniques by Peggy Donda Kobert. While fabric is the focus for the projects in this book, you can easily use painted paper instead. Definitely take a look at this book. The styles vary from cute to sophisticated and will inspire you with new projects for your recycled art.
Another inspiring book is Collage with Color - Create Unique Expressive Collages in Vibrant Color by Jane Davies. Just sitting and slowly paging through this colorful book, gets me daydreaming about endless possibilities. It is bursting with gorgeous colors and patterns that, to me, are truly mesmerizing. There are projects galore that are perfectly suited for recycled art. I highly recommend this book.

Love all that you create - good and bad; after all, it is a part of you.

You are its creator!

Don't forget to keep up your Daily Doodles!!http://doodletherapy.blogspot.com/2011/04/daily-doodle-journal-develop-your.html

Happy Doodling!

Expermental Art - Rit Dye

2011-05-22T14:47:00.002-04:00

I love the idea of paintings that paint themselves. By that I mean, letting go of control over the process and watching as the process unfolds.

You need to approach this experiment with a sense of adventure and without any expectations of getting a great painting. The idea is to be open to the process of creation and to become so engaged in that process that you lose all sense of time and place. In this state, you can rid yourself of any stress and escape the everyday demands.

For this art technique, you will need:
Any size watercolor paper

Dark brown, powdered Rit Dye
Spray bottle of water
Hair blow dryer (optional)

This technique was featured in Jan Fabian Wallake's inspiring book, Watercolor: Pour it On! This book is loaded with interesting techniques, step-by-step instructions and beautiful illustrations that will totally inspire you.

The technique is simple:

Soak the paper in water for a few seconds or spray it thoroughly. Make sure that it is on a protected surface to prevent staining. For those who work with watercolor, it can be put on a stretcher board, but it doesn't need to be.
While it is wet, sprinkle tiny amounts of the dye on the wet paper. Don't squeeze the particles to a fine powder - it will tend to look solid brown.

As the particles hit the paper, they will "explode" into individual color particles. Wallake states, "Once the dye has put on its spectacular display, you can easily see the many colors used to make this color. I have used this technique for organic images such as forest foliage and underwater plant growth".

For myself, I have used it alone and with India ink to create random and spontaneous abstract images.

You can tilt and turn the paper to spread the flow of color or use a hair dryer to blow the dye in different directions - I love the movement this creates.

If you're in a truly experimental mood, add drops of India ink to the wet paper using an eye dropper. Use the spray bottle if you need to re-wet the paper. For the image above, I used tiny drops of India ink along with the dye.

I usually like what turns out as is, but you may find that images have formed that you would like to draw into and expand on what was created with additional art work.

The main idea though, is to explore new techniques to develop and transform your creative abilities; to approach the process with positive intentions and appreciate the beauty and alchemy of the unexpected results.

This openness will allow you to connect at a much deeper level to your creative spirit. And when the creative spirit is in charge, instead of the mind, you will be amazed at what you are able to create.

Try this technique - consider it your playtime!

Special Note: for the perfectionists and judgmental types (you know who you are!). If there's a section that don't like or "didn't come out right", don't throw it out - trim off the "offensive" part instead. You may find at a later time, that you have grown to like it.

Happy Doodling!

Creativity - What Holds You Back?

2011-05-15T12:48:00.004-04:00

Is it the fear of what someone will think of your creative endeavors. Are you afraid that it won't be good enough, won't be perfect?

If it's any of these, I would ask you to consider this. Would you stop a child from creating something because it isn't perfect? Would you discourage them because of what others may think? Even if you can argue that you would to protect them; would it really be beneficial if the message is, what others think is more important?

So, why would you want to inflict such restrictions on yourself? If you have not been able to experience the joy of creation, watch someone while they create. Instead of focusing on what they are creating, and comparing your ability to theirs, focus on them. Do they look like they are immersed in the process, relaxed, stress-free or happy? That's what you want to aim for - not the talent or the skill. That will develop and transform once you allow the creative process to chart its own course.

Michelle Cassou has written the best books on overcoming blocks. Her books have had a profound effect on my work. They have helped me break away from my perfectionist tendencies. They still creep in, but I don't allow it to get in the way anymore. I have learned to accept and love what emerges.

Doodling has helped here in a big way. Knowing that what you are doing is "just doodling", puts your expectations at a lower level and makes you less judgmental. You're likely to be less focused on the outcome.

If you continue to doodle, journal style, on a regular basis without judging the outcome, you will begin to see your own symbols and style emerge. Keep at it, and your work will develop and transform itself while transforming you at the same time. All you need to do is allow it to happen!

Click here, to see how to set up a daily doodle journal.

There will be moments when you really dislike what you created. Fight the urge to throw them away. In fact, I would suggest that you keep them and look at them often. Allow what feelings or thoughts to come up. They provide the secrets and clues to the issues that need attention.

I have found that the images that I dislike most, have revealed the most to me. And when I took the time to "listen to their message", I eventually came to find them intriguing and sometimes ended up liking them more than the others.

Take the time when you can, even on a scrap of paper, and just take a few minutes to draw something - anything. Are you feeling uneasy or conflicted on what to do? Is there an overpowering thought directing what you "should" do? Is it directing you away from something you would like to do? That's the voice that gets no say in the matter! Pay attention to how it is making you feel, but follow your heart instead.

There is no joy in following orders to do something you "should" do. The joy is in the process of discovering and transforming what is deep within you. Allow that to emerge and blossom!

It can take a long time if there have been a lot of barriers and tight controls. But it will be very much like caring for a delicate, new plant in your garden. You may not see much growth at first. That's because what is underneath the surface is spreading out and developing its strength and foundation. Once these roots are securely grounded, it will start to flourish.

Be patient though, there may be few or no flowers in the beginning. Sometimes they won't show up until the next year. But, when they do, it will be a burst of beauty.

Bringing out the beauty and light within you is worth the time and effort and is definitely worth waiting for!

Happy Doodling!

Unleashing Creativity - Finding Time for Your Passion

2011-05-08T12:08:00.005-04:00

Doodle Therapy - Torn In All Directions - Patricia Kay

Sometimes there just isn't time for creativity. Work and family obligations don't allow for the luxury of free time to indulge in the pure pleasure of creation.

As much as I believe that it is a healthy indulgence, I also believe that it is a therpuetic and healing necessity.

Many creativeas will tell you that long periods of time away from their creative activities is deeply frustrating. Your passion, whatever it may be, is part of who you are, not just what you do.

Many more people don't think of themselves as creative at all or don't discover their creativity until later in life. Somethimes, that unsettled stirring or unidentified anxiety that one feels is the calling of the creative spirit trying to break free.

I truly believe that not expressing or connecting with that part of yourself is very unhealthy for the spirit. And when your spirit is lacking the nourishment it needs, it's only a matter of time before it has a negative effect on the body.

For me, not being able to do something creative on a regular basis, causes a lot of anxiety, tension and headaches. I would love to spend hours every day engaging in whatever I find intriguing that day. But, as it is with most of us, that is not my reality.

In an attempt to find a way to get some time in everyday to unleash that creativity and allow it to develop and transform, I started the Daily Doodle Journal. Even if it is only five minutes, I try to take the time each day to get into the practice of letting the flow of the creative process emerge naturally. No preconceived ideas allowed. I just follow what I feel at the moment. A few minutes doodling or daydreaming calms and grounds me. Whatever extra time I get, is a bonus.

I can't stress enough how beneficial it is to find whatever time you can for yourself. Maybe early in the morning or before you go to bed, on your break or at lunch, you can find a few minutes to doodle, write, daydream or walk. Just find a way to block out the rest of the world to allow the ideas to start flowing.

Put it off, lock it up or ignore if you want; but you will find that, like with any other thing that is neglected, it becomes rusty or out of shape. Or worse, negative energy builds up. The old concept, use it, or lose it, applies here.

If you don't know what your talent is, have fun in the process of finding out what it is. Use your doodle journal to explore and write down new ideas.

If you know what your talent is, give it the time it derserves. Your life will be filled with more happiness when you do.

Most importantly, get connected or reconnected with your creative spirit by doing something you love or trying something new. You don't have to be an expert or perfect - so don't compare yourself to others.

To me, bringing creativity into your life, is bringing joy into your life - and everyone needs more of that!

Happy Doodling!

Creativity, Transformation and Spring

2011-04-24T23:24:00.004-04:00

Sprouts of new life, vibrant colors emerging - it's an inspiring and uplifting transformation.

There is so much work to be done this time of year - cleaning, preparation, getting rid of the old to make way for the new - it's all good and very therapeutic. But, what can be overlooked is the opportunity to take this time to reflect and transform your creative spirit. What better time than spring to try something new.

Your doodling journal can be where you explore new ideas, try drawing in a different style or different subject matter. An open heart and open mind is all you need.

Take time to pay attention to what is stirring inside. If you don't know, a good question to ask yourself is: If I could do whatever I want right now, what would it be? Write your thoughts down, or at least, make a mental note of them. And don't allow "but I can't because...." to take over your thoughts.

Maybe, practically speaking, it's not something you can do at the moment, but don't allow that to stop you from visualizing or thinking about it. You are what you focus on; therefore, you can do or become what you want. So, think of this as a time for planting seeds of intention.

As with all the work that is involved with your yard and garden, you will need to give the same amount of care to your newly sprouted ideas and intentions. Your life is no different than your garden - it can flourish and become lush in its growth and beauty, or it can be ordinary and just survive, or worse, it can wither from neglect.

Give it the care it needs in the early stages of growth, allow it to find its own path, support it and give it the nutrients and foundation it needs. Your ideas and intentions will also need to be protected from the weeds - don't allow negative thoughts or people to take over.

Your dreams will thrive if you can provide them with sunny, positive energy and a constant flow of creative juices. Creativity is what brought them to life and is what will make them flourish.

Keep your doodle journal at your side to record the journey and help you find the answers you seek. If doubts or negative thoughts sprout up, get them out on paper to help eliminate them.

Try this as a way to literally wipe out negative influences:

Doodle, draw or scribble whatever the thought feels like, then draw something that eliminates or overpowers it. Even scribbling over it or just crossing it out will work.
However, if the feeling is still there or you now feel more anxiety, continue to draw what you feel until you start to get a better understanding of what it is that you are feeling.
You want to transform or eliminate the feeling, not just cover it up.

Deeper feelings and self-doubt are the tougher weeds that will appear often. You will need to keep an eye on them and continue to be vigilant about eliminating them.

If you keep up with your Daily Doodle Journal, you will be able to monitor your feelings and progress. Progress that will lead to transformation.

Using the law of attraction along with your creativity is a powerful way to transform your ideas and intentions into your dreams. If you would like more information on the law of attraction, here are a few of my favorite books on the topic.

Happy Doodling!

Overcoming Creative Blocks - Creative Mood

2011-04-16T14:37:00.004-04:00

For most of my creative life, I needed to be in the mood to create. My state of mind or emotional state dictated if and when I could do what I loved.

Not being able to do something creative would make me feel extremely frustrated and discouraged, which would then continue the mood that would keep me from creating.

So much prescious time was lost. So, I thought.

Here's where a Doodle Journal can help transform your negative mood or low energy into a positive, flowing, energetic state.

All you have to do is get out your pad and pencil. Give yourself a moment to clear your thoughts, meditate or state your intentions. Put on paper whatever it is you are feeling. Even if it is a lonely, little dot in the middle of the page - do it! Consider this a warm-up exercise; not a work of art. If you have that expectation, it may only make it more difficult to transform your mood.

The idea is to acknowledge your current state and transition to a more receptive, creative state.

Suppose after several minutes, you can only manage a few weak, squiggly lines drooping downward on the page. Or maybe your page is filled with a lot of jagged lines bouncing back and forth across the page. Now what?

You may not realize it, but you did create something! You now know what your inner state looks like. Keep going - do additional pages!

There are a few ways you can approach the next step.

You can continue to draw, following what you feel until there is a natural shift in the flow. Or you can consciously start to draw or doodle in a way that is familiar to you - more or less forcing a shift. That can be a little more difficult if you're just not in a creative state, and may not always be that effective. But it may be a good idea if you just need to shift from a logical, left brain state to a creative, right brain state or if you're working on a project with a deadline.

I prefer to let the the process take its own natural path. It becomes my self-reflection. Many things are resolved and revealed to me during these, what I used to refer to as, dry spells. I now consider these moments to be full of surprises that allow me to release any stress or negative energy.

The most important thing is that you now have a way to bring yourself back into a flowing, creative state. You don't have to wait for the creative mood to miraculously appear. You can bring it out natually. Just allow your inner voice to reveal itself. Respect and acknowledge what comes out on the page.

And don't limit this technique to artistic persuits - this works just as well when trying to overcome a writer's block or trying to come up with ideas. Doodling can clear your mind of all the mental clutter. Use it as a tool to transform your mood and state of mind to a fountain of creativity.

If you are a creative soul like me, you know the deep sense of frustration when creativity stops flowing. While I no longer want to waste any more time staying in a state of "stuckness", I also believe that creative droughts appear for a reason and are very valuable to the whole process. Possibly, something needs to be cleared away to make room for something new. Or maybe, an issue needs to be resolved before going forward.

In her truly inspirational book, Making Pearls, Living the Creative Life, Jeanne Carbonetti, writes about the stages of creation. She explains, "You may have felt blocked at times, uninspired at others, or perhaps frustrated and self-critical. All of these experiences come from not honoring where you are in the creative cycle."

In her chapters on waiting, opening, closing, holding, releasing, emptying and sitting, she describes the purpose and gifts of each stage. Her book is filled with inspiration and is a profoundly different way to look at the creative process. And while it's filled with art, it is a great book for anyone interested in developing creativity of any kind.

So, the questions to contemplate are:

Instead of facing an obstacle as if it were a brick wall, can it be envisioned as a door that can be opened to transport you through to a new level of being?
Can you learn to appreciate and even welcome obstacles and uncertainty as opportunities for self-reflection?

The Daily Doodle Journal can put you on that path, help you transform your mood and take you further on your creative journey.

Doodle On!