Art Journaling by Somerset Studio ~ Winter 2016 and a GIVEAWAY!

From its inaugural issue, I've been a tremendous fan of Art Journaling by Somerset Studio; I've been privileged to have articles published in the magazine many times. It is always a delight to work with the magazine's editor, Amber Demien, who understands that art journals can be very personal and treats them with the utmost respect.

The most recent journal I submitted for publication is actually a series of four that were filled over the course of one year; a small journal bound and created for each season.

It was great fun to use colors, images and emotions based on the seasons and use the view from my art desk as never-ending inspiration.

One of the joys of experiencing an issue of Art Journaling is the exposure to the array of art journalers that make up our 'community.' There are countless styles and inspirations shared by a wide variety of artists; no two issues ever look alike. I use the phrase 'experiencing an issue' with intent; one doesn't merely 'read' this magazine...it is, indeed, an experience!

I especially love the monthly column "ART JOURNALING at the Speed of Life" by Pam Carriker. In the interest of full disclosure, Pam and I are very good friends, albeit, long distance friends. When I read her articles I can hear her voice and the miles disappear. We also share such a love of art journaling that reading her take on the subject is a joy; not to mention, I love her style!

My favorite artwork from this particular issue is shared in the article by Mindy Lacefield, who also happens to be the Cover Girl. Mindy's work and her approach to her journaling comes straight from the heart. There is an honesty, sincerity and a soulfulness in Mindy's journaling. Her willingness to share her deep emotions in the magazine speaks to the respect that Art Journaling has for the artists and their very personal journals.

Any good discussion about art journaling offers up a journal prompt to the reader. Let me not fall short in that department! Let's take a page from Mindy's article entitled, 'Listen', and create a journal page of what we hear deep within our hearts when we take the time to LISTEN. I'd love to see what you create should you be moved to share. If you'd like to share a pic of your journal page on my Facebook page, you can do so in the comment section that accompanies the post about the magazine.

The marketing department of Stampington, Inc has graciously offered to send one of my readers a copy of this issue of Art Journaling. If you'd like to win a copy just leave a comment here, including a way for me to get in touch with you. Contest is open to U.S. residents only. Comments close on Friday, January 22nd.(If you have any difficulty leaving a comment here, just comment over at Facebook and you'll be in the drawing.)

Good luck & embrace your art journal!

© Nancy Lefko