Art Journaling is a creative way to build community within your group.

This hands-on online workshop (via Zoom) is designed for facilitators and teachers who are looking for a creative and engaging way to bring their group together. During the session, I’ll guide you through a four-step process for creating an expressive art journal page:

1. Write – Start by getting your thoughts onto the page.

2. Paint – Layer paint over the writing so no one can ever read it.

3. Collage – Add a focal image that reflects your journaling.

4. Text – Finish by adding text you write or collage.

While working on your own pages we will discuss how you can use this process with your own group or community. We will explore different prompts that work well for different types of groups, how to arrange the physical space, and how to encourage without judgement.

Creating a safe space

Art journaling invites an openness that helps build stronger community. As facilitators, we can support and encourage that by creating a safe space for people to express themselves. We’ll talk about how to do that—how to set up the physical environment, what to say (and not say) about people’s art, and when to step back and let the group support each other. This will be a big part of the workshop. There will also be plenty of time for questions about how this approach can work with different groups—youth, adults, seniors, people processing grief, caregivers, and more.

No art experience necessary. 

The best thing about art journaling is that anyone can do it. The supplies are simple and easy to find, making it accessible to everyone. The writing exercise is private, which helps people feel safe to be open—and there’s something a little magical about painting over what you’ve written so no one can read it. Sharing is always optional, but often, innermost feelings find their way to the page. The resulting page is a tangible witness to keep.

What you'll leave with

This is a hands-on class where we’ll create an art journal page you get to keep, so all the steps are clear. We’ll also address common obstacles that often come up along the way. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the skills to lead your own art journaling sessions within your community. You’ll also receive handouts covering all the steps, a list of prompts, and instructions for creating three different types of art journaling pages.

Details

October 28
9:30-12:30
$60.00

Supplies
Watercolour paper or any heavy weight paper
Paints: white, red, yellow, blue
Brushes: Dollarama has a good selection
Pen: to take notes
Markers: Sharpies, or similar 4 different colours if you have them
Images: Magazine or Junk mail
Scissors
Glue: glue stick or white glue or Modge Podge

Organizations I have worked with

Moms Stop The Harm

Workman Arts

Phoenix Foundation

Scarborough Women's Centre

Four Villages: Parent's Time Out Program

Toronto Counselling Centre for Teens

Here's what others have to say:

"Art Journaling with Anna has changed my life! I love the process involved in creating each page. Transforming thoughts into Art and learning not to judge my work has brought me great joy!" ~Laura~

"...this is where I am my most authentic self" Journaler C

"...even as a beginner I wasn't overwhelmed or intimidated." Journaler J

"I keep on looking at my page and remembering the insights and what I learnt. Can't wait to do it again."
~Gwen~

"I look through my journal pages, and I may not remember what I wrote, but I remember how I felt."
~Kristina~

"...like it's holding the weight of all my feelings"
~Amanda~