Create Art Just for You!

Create Art Just for You

You know that feeling when you return to something that feels like home?

That’s exactly what happened to me recently when I finally cracked open my long-neglected art journal. Between building a new collection and balancing a temp full-time gig, my journal had been quietly waiting—patient and dust-covered. The moment I opened it, I felt like I was hugging an old friend. That familiar scent of paper, the half-finished page, the swirls of forgotten color… they all greeted me with open arms.

And just like that, I was back. Not to impress. Not to perform. Just to play. To breathe. To feel whole again.

I spent the morning lost in a sea of creativity, my thoughts floating away like clouds. Every brush stroke and layer was a breath of fresh air, reminding me of the pure joy and freedom art brings. This happy little reunion reignited my passion and sparked new ideas for a future collection. It was a gentle reminder that amidst the busyness of life, making time for creativity is vital to nourish the soul.

A Gentle Reminder for the Soul

In a world that constantly demands more, faster, better—it’s easy to forget that your creativity is not a performance. It’s your sanctuary.

My journal is where I explore with wild abandon. Where “mistakes” are magic. Where masterpieces aren’t the goal, but joy is. It’s a judgment-free zone for layering, smearing, tearing, dripping—and discovering. A playground for my inner artist, and a soft space for my spirit to rest.

You don’t need a reason to make art. You don’t need an audience.
You just need permission—and I’m here to give it.

The Creative Process

Step 1: Collage

Almost all of my pieces begin with collage—it’s like my creative warm-up. For this one, I’d whipped up the background ages ago, but life got in the way (as it tends to do) and I promptly forgot it. Coming back to it felt like uncovering a hidden gem. Those torn papers, that textured chaos—it already held so much. I carefully picked a palette of lively colors, each shade handpicked to complement the intricate textures and patterns beneath.

Step 2: Blend It

I reached for a sunny yellow instead of my usual titanium white and let loose with some fun fingerpainting. Armed with my trusty palette knife, I smeared golden rod across the surface and instantly felt my energy shift. Playful. Free. Bold.

Step 3: Texture Time

If you know me, you know I can’t resist adding more texture. I dug into my stash and found these hand-painted tissue paper roses I made ages ago. They’re perfectly imperfect and slightly transparent—like little secrets peeking through the surface.

Step 4: Hand-painted Birds

With all that warmth on the page, I knew I needed something cool and calming. Two stunning birds perched gracefully on slender branches, their vibrant turquoise plumage pops against the warm hues surrounding them. Each is hand-painted starting with transparent alcohol ink, layered with acrylic for depth, and finished with dozens of tiny brush stroke to mimic delicate feathers. Adding the perfect balance of peace and harmony to the scene.

Step 5: Flower Power

Next came the florals—because what’s a page of mine without a burst of color, right? I decoupaged vivid napkin flowers across the background. Reds, yellows, oranges practically sing as the vivid blooms flourish across the surface, capturing the joyful essence of a sun-drenched summer garden.

Step 6: Splatters & Drips

You know it’s not really done until I break out the splatters and drips. This is the moment I stop thinking and just let loose. I love how they move unpredictably across the page—like the creative process itself: messy, unpredictable, and full of surprises and happy accidents. This element of surprise keeps my art fun and exciting, not just for me, but hopefully for you too. These finishing touches always remind me to trust the chaos and enjoy the ride. I invite you to peek beyond the mess and discover the unexpected beauty within.

Come art journal with me!

If this post lit a spark in you, I’ve got even more waiting for you inside my Artist’s Journey e-workshop. It’s designed to be approachable, and joy-filled—perfect for women just like you, learning to reclaim creativity on your own terms.

Because, my friend, your art matters.
You matter.
And you’re allowed to create just for you.

A Nudge to Create (Just for You)

This page reminded me why I create in the first place—not to post or sell or be “productive”—but to come alive.

And if you’ve been waiting for a sign, let this be it:

It’s perfectly okay to make art that never sees the light of day.
It’s okay to not have a plan.
It’s okay to show up messy and just play.

Your art is valid simply because it brings you joy.

I’d love to know

What’s your favorite way to reconnect with your creativity? Do you collage, sketch, stitch, sculpt, or simply color outside the lines?

Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your story. Let’s inspire each other to keep showing up, not to prove anything, but to remember who we are.