I’m immediately drawn in when I see a photo of someone else’s journal. Maybe because we think there will be some key or hint to their creativity, to an inside look – into their creativity, their thoughts, their lives. But recently I’ve been looking around to see what other artist’s use, what they put into their journals. Are they visually documenting their lives through their journals with doodles and notes? Are they meticulous writing down their day with words? Are they disciplined and write or draw every day? I saved a few images from journals that intrigued me: Edward Hopper, Keith Haring, Lisa Congdon, and 1Canoe2. Enjoy!
Edward Hopper
Edward Hopper’s is more of a ledger-style book. He includes dates, titles, notes, newspaper clippings – it all has me so fascinated!
Keith Haring
The Keith Haring Foundation has been publishing his journals on a Tumblr site, Keith Haring’s Journals. His style, more of a diary or written journal, is an intimate look into his life. It’s personal, and it makes me wonder – what if someone publishes my journals one day?!
Lisa Congdon
Lisa Congdon, an illustrator/artist/designer has some amazing pattern work and illustrations in her sketchbook. Caught a glimpse into her process through her Instagram.
1Canoe2
And one of my all-time favorites is the landscape paintings of Beth from 1Canoe2. I can’t quite put my finger on what fascinates me so much, maybe because they remind me of where I live? I’m not sure, but I love her paintings and especially love that she shares these on her Instagram account.
Tony Mazzola
My watercolor journals hold a special place in my heart. They are a record of my observances at a particular place and time. They are a record of my life. Sights seen, experiences shared, moments felt. They are a treasure that will be passed down to my children and maybe even theirs.