thoughts that come to mind after reading Journal Spilling
the ease at which Diana brings journaling into our busy day
throw down some paint
write
spill words
approaching journaling in a manner of comfort and simplicity
words spill - literally
like pieces of a scrabble game, the letters on the tray, become words on the board
no limitations
encouraging your process, do you like, write words, paint or collage
prompts
art techniques to experiment with
I have never meet Diana Trout or spoken to her, but I feel that we are friends; contemporaries in the world of art-making and writing. Diana brings people together through workshops and her book, Journal Spilling. Encouraging them to creatively express their thoughts with journaling.
I first purchased this book last summer and read it cover to cover. I was so thrilled with it’s content and began journaling for the first time in many years. The ease at which Diana takes the reader into the journaling process is liberating. One of her many talents is, that she does this without boundaries or stiffing rules.
But I am getting ahead of myself, let’s start at the beginning. Diana welcomes you like you were old friends, meeting for the millionth time to have a coffee and chat. You feel relaxed and encouraged by her straightforward writing. The layout is just as straightforward, presenting an idea or technique --- inspiring you to take it and run with it!
The book unfolds in a “divide and conquer” manner, breaking down obstacles before becoming an issue. Diana gets you warmed up, gathering your supplies and before you know it you are spilling. I found the exercise on page 12, Time to Spill, a great starting point (photo).
One of my favorite sections is about taming the inner critic. Diana nails this chapter with humor and wit. It is definitely worth reading and helpful in many ways. Her treatment of the inner critic, pushes us to recognize the overpowering effects of negative thoughts. But she doesn’t leave it there, she show us how to create and tame the critic. This information itself is worth buying the book!
Like the general population, I am intimidated by “self portrait” projects, however Diana’s easy instructions made the project fun and enjoyable. (photo)
Diana takes you under her wing throughout the book explaining and demonstrating a range of art techniques. These page filling processes, like watercolor are ideas that stay with you and are helpful to overcome the “white page syndrome”. She explains the benefits of trusting yourself and letting go. Towards the end of book, there is a section on creative aid, so that you are never without quotes, words or ideas. (photo)
Overall this book contains all the necessary elements for journaling. The page layouts are logical and easy to follow. Diana’s writing style is witty and sincere. I will continue to reference the book and highly recommend it for anyone interested in creative self-expression.
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