Exhilaration!

Well, I am astounded at the response to my Online Class. Not only has there been a huge sign up – but everyone is so excited and happy! The class starts officially tomorrow – but seeing as I got organised early (insert pat on the back here), I opened up the classroom early – and the Arty Party has well and truly commenced! The forums are jumping, there is welcoming and laughing and fun and support and sharing and all the cockle warmings of the heart you can imagine.

I conducted a little poll at sign up to see who was an active Art Journaler….The results  were 62″yes”es and”of courses!” and 58 “not yet, but I sure want too!”s. So there is going to be plenty of cross-pollination of enthusiasms and experiences. I cannot wait to see what unfolds. I can hardly sleep with ideas for my own journals, videos to make, ways to share my knowledge… preparing the class has been all encompassing…and now running this gregarious and joyful lot will have me spinning on all four wheels…I LOVE IT!!!!!!

The busiest Discussion Forum is in answer to my question “Why Do I Journal?”…and the answers are inspirational and quite emotive:

“Why do I journal? Because I feel so much better when I do!  It’s as simple and as complicated as that. ” Caity

“”I love how drawing slows down my life”” Jo

“Art Journaling is the best expression of ones self . . . and for oneself.  It is my sanctuary and my love.” Nancy

“I use my journal in all sorts of ways sometimes it is therapy, sometimes it is fun, sometimes it is a friend!” Ali

“My journal is great for doing a bit of unconscious writing to get out thought patterns circling around my head” Katie

“Why do I journal? I guess because I want to do what I want to do now. I’ve raised five children, had a full career and now it’s time for me. I have a lot I want to say about my life and art and my art journal is where I want that to happen.  ” Kate

We are creating a legacy with our journals, we are unraveling complexities and reactions to the world. We are playing and having fun. Its time to make a mess and not care…just to get lost in the colour and texture and the act of creating something with our hands…. I feel very priviledged to be amongst such fine creative company.

You can still come and join us…!

ANgus and I are off to Brisbane this weekend for the Papercrafts Festival. I have already heard about a new marker that is being launched at the show, and I am buzzing about it ( I know , ridiculous!).  I Have a big space with my own classroom – hello?! I will be doing mini workshops throughout the show… it’s going to be fun! Downside is , I have no journals for the show 🙁  I just can’t keep them is stock. Maybe I’ll get the hang of the business part of this crazy adventure eventually! Good Grief!

Wherever you are, whatever you are doing right now, smile…every little thing gonna be alright  (I’m listening to Bob marley…)

Choose Happiness,

Jane