The Blues is a musical form that knows a lot about creative self-care. The blues takes a sad, hopeless, dark feeling, and expresses and transforms it through the music with gusto and style. Today we’re going to be painting the blues, and hopefully, transforming them.

[bctt tweet=”Pick up your art journal, express what you’re feeling and watch it transform. #abstractart” username=”amymaricle”]

I’m so pleased to be able to share these simple techniques for art journaling for depression with you.*

RESOURCES:

You might be interested in some of the supplies I used in this video. Any watercolor set and watercolor brush will do. Be sure to use watercolor paper though, because otherwise you won’t get the bleeding effects. Here’s what I’m using:

• A bamboo brush – I love the “organic” shapes these naturally make.
• Windsor & Newton Watercolor Tubes in my homemade portable Altoid tin
• Strathmore Watercolor Journal – Mine is smaller than this one – roughly 5 x 8.5, but I couldn’t find it for you, so this one is the same but bigger. You can decide what size you like best. I get overwhelmed by anything too big these days.
• And I didn’t end up using it, but that’s a Koi watercolor brush you see in the frame. I keep one at my desk and in my portable art kit because it has its own well of water. SO CONVENIENT for travel.

If you enjoyed this video on art journaling for the blues, I think you’ll LOVE my class, Fluid Art. It’s all about taking advantage of the natural beauty and flow of high flow acrylic paint and simple patterns. You’ll create your own organic mini masterpieces, handmade journals, and learn to weave much more art into your life. Check out the video for Fluid Art now. 

You might also enjoy learning some of my other art techniques for personal healing:

• Art Journaling for Healing: Doodle and De-stress
• Using Art to Relax
• The Big Power of Working Small
• Simple Drawing Techniques for Anxiety

You can also join our private Facebook group, Creative Self-Care. It’s a wonderful, supportive community of folks all using art for self-care. No experience necessary!

Be sure to grab your spot in my free course, the Guide to Creative Self-Care.

[bctt tweet=”Painting the blues: Let the art transform you. #artheals” username=”amymaricle”]

*DISCLAIMER: This is not art therapy, but rather a technique for personal growth. The information provided on this post and on this site is for educational purposes only. Please consult a mental health professional, such as an art therapist, if you think you need professional help.

*This is an affiliate link, if you choose to click on it and make a purchase, I will receive a small referral commission and you will support the creative self-care work of Mindful Art Studio. Thank you!