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The Painted Art Journal: 24 Projects for Creating Your Visual Narrative
Take a mixed-media journey to the very heart of your creativity!The Painted Art Journal opens doors to your most personal and authentic art yet. Tell your story as only you can, through a series of guided projects that culminate in a beautiful, autobiographical art journal worthy of passing along to future generations. Along the way, you will hone your own unique style of artful storytelling, filled with the images, colors and symbols that resonate most powerfully with you. Twenty-four inventive, step-by-step prompts help you • Set the scene for making art--from establishing rituals that unlock creativity to curating a personal storyboard. • Draw inspiration from photos, typography, sketches, childhood memories, quotes and more. • Shape your story with timelines, gathered-word poetry and simple approaches to portraits. • Express yourself through an exciting range of mixed-media techniques, using everything from pen and ink, markers and watercolor to image transfers, printmaking with linocuts, acrylic and collage.A book unlike any other, The Painted Art Journal is all about digging deeper, honoring your life, and coming away with a truer understanding of yourself and your art. "Each of our stories is so different, lovely and broken in its own way." --Jeanne Oliver
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2018
61 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Jeanne Oliver
1 book3 followersJeanne Oliver grew up in rural Illinois and now resides in Castle Rock, CO. She is inspired by our personal stories, travel, and nature.
Jeanne uses art to tell her current stories and also those of growing up among gravel roads, cornfields and early life surrounded by open spaces. Through mark making, layers and mixed media, she hopes to convey that we all have a story to tell.
Jeanne is married to her dream maker, Kelly, and the mother of three funny and creative children. She homeschools her children even though she has tried to get out of it a few times. You can often find her hiking, creating in her studio and finding an excuse to have another cup of coffee. She speaks and teaches all around the country and sometimes she even gets to cross the pond. She was told that she needed to find that one thing but she doesn’t like listening to directions so she embraces many loves and that has given her a sweet mash-up of family, art, and travel. Connecting with women and sharing that each of us has been creatively made is one of her passions.
Jeanne uses art to tell her current stories and also those of growing up among gravel roads, cornfields and early life surrounded by open spaces. Through mark making, layers and mixed media, she hopes to convey that we all have a story to tell.
Jeanne is married to her dream maker, Kelly, and the mother of three funny and creative children. She homeschools her children even though she has tried to get out of it a few times. You can often find her hiking, creating in her studio and finding an excuse to have another cup of coffee. She speaks and teaches all around the country and sometimes she even gets to cross the pond. She was told that she needed to find that one thing but she doesn’t like listening to directions so she embraces many loves and that has given her a sweet mash-up of family, art, and travel. Connecting with women and sharing that each of us has been creatively made is one of her passions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 2, 2018
I’m a sucker for a good-looking book and this one’s all muted shades of blue, brown and grey with a dash of mustard – like an artist’s coastal studio.
Oliver clearly knows her topic and takes you through the process: from gathering your materials, creating a storyboard and making a journal from an old book; to a series of step by step art projects such as making a circular timeline and collaging with torn papers.
At first, with a lot of emphasis on ‘telling your story’ and ‘creative rituals’, I was worried that it might be a little too ‘spiritual’ for my liking. But when I got to the projects it was clear that there’s plenty of room for playful fun – creating a page from a vintage class photo, for example – it doesn’t need to be deeply personal if you don’t want it to be.
This book leans more to the arts side than the crafts ( or creative writing ) side of journals. There was no use of rubber stamping or stencilling and the stories were (except for a project using a poem) told in images alone rather than a mix of words and pictures, which some may prefer.
However, the techniques and ideas included could be adopted and adapted by all kinds of journaler – this is an inspiring and instructive book.
Thanks to NetGalley and F+W Media for the electronic review copy.
Oliver clearly knows her topic and takes you through the process: from gathering your materials, creating a storyboard and making a journal from an old book; to a series of step by step art projects such as making a circular timeline and collaging with torn papers.
At first, with a lot of emphasis on ‘telling your story’ and ‘creative rituals’, I was worried that it might be a little too ‘spiritual’ for my liking. But when I got to the projects it was clear that there’s plenty of room for playful fun – creating a page from a vintage class photo, for example – it doesn’t need to be deeply personal if you don’t want it to be.
This book leans more to the arts side than the crafts ( or creative writing ) side of journals. There was no use of rubber stamping or stencilling and the stories were (except for a project using a poem) told in images alone rather than a mix of words and pictures, which some may prefer.
However, the techniques and ideas included could be adopted and adapted by all kinds of journaler – this is an inspiring and instructive book.
Thanks to NetGalley and F+W Media for the electronic review copy.
May 5, 2018
If you like the idea of creating an art journal where you can paint different projects, then this book is for you. In its pages you will find a series of projects and ideas that will teach you how to do an art journal from scratch and how to fill its pages with different projects. I find it nice that they give you some instructions about creating your art book and then some projects to began filling it and then some techniques from where you can learn to do your own thing once you are confident enough :)
In order to help your creative side they present you with 24 projects guided from step one to completition, from creating as I've said the art journal; to get inspirations from art or photos, quotes, etc; to use different techniques like watercolor, markers, collages, etc.
What I loved is that they show you different things, how to combine lettering with pics with splashes of color so you can see different things you can do and then decide which one will be your approach to your own journal.
I think it is a nice book from where to get inspiration to do your own art and also providing some tutorials about techniques and stuff.
In order to help your creative side they present you with 24 projects guided from step one to completition, from creating as I've said the art journal; to get inspirations from art or photos, quotes, etc; to use different techniques like watercolor, markers, collages, etc.
What I loved is that they show you different things, how to combine lettering with pics with splashes of color so you can see different things you can do and then decide which one will be your approach to your own journal.
I think it is a nice book from where to get inspiration to do your own art and also providing some tutorials about techniques and stuff.
May 18, 2018
I'm just gonna tell you what I said on Facebook earlier today:
You guys. Seriously. I have no words for how good this book is. Which is rare.
What Oliver's created here is completely unique. It's not just about making pretty pictures in a book. It's about excavating your soul's stories, collecting all the various threads that make you *you*, and putting them together to make art in a way that only you can.
When I got my copy from Netgalley this morning, I thought I'd flip through it and go on with my day. Most art books, I go in, look at the techniques, see if there's anything new that I want to try in my own practice, and then, generally, they go on the shelf. Even the ones I like and end up keeping are often shelf-dwellers, waiting for me to need that particular technique.
This is not how my morning went, y'all.
By the second chapter or so, I was sitting in my comfy chair with a notebook, following a sidebar (just a sidebar!) of her advice to write down notes about all of your stories. Granted, she said to only take fifteen minutes or so. Two HOURS later, I was still scribbling notes and only made it to my late teens.
Quick fact you may not know about me: I have a head injury. Got creamed by a drunk driver in 2003. There were days I forgot things like words and my own grandmother's name. There are large swaths of my life path that are foggy or I just don't remember.
This morning, when I was making my scribbly list of stories, *I started remembering*, y'all. Things that were lost, stories that were foggy or forgotten.
By the time I stopped for the time being (my hand was cramping), I had a WEALTH of new resources to draw upon. For me, for that one tip alone? I'd buy ten of these books.
Then, though, she gets into her process, and through a whole host of absolutely gorgeous projects and unique techniques, she delves deep into those stories you've uncovered, and gives them the chance to be illuminated and seen. I've taken Jeanne's classes (which she has on her self-named site), and there are some projects that are repeats, just for the record. However, coming into them this time with another round of stories made the projects themselves new, as well.
Oliver has put into the world not just a beautifully photographed and well-organized art resource, but a kind of soul-level tool for self-discovery here.
I can not recommend it highly enough. It comes out in July. I suggest pre-ordering. Worth every penny, and about a million more.
You guys. Seriously. I have no words for how good this book is. Which is rare.
What Oliver's created here is completely unique. It's not just about making pretty pictures in a book. It's about excavating your soul's stories, collecting all the various threads that make you *you*, and putting them together to make art in a way that only you can.
When I got my copy from Netgalley this morning, I thought I'd flip through it and go on with my day. Most art books, I go in, look at the techniques, see if there's anything new that I want to try in my own practice, and then, generally, they go on the shelf. Even the ones I like and end up keeping are often shelf-dwellers, waiting for me to need that particular technique.
This is not how my morning went, y'all.
By the second chapter or so, I was sitting in my comfy chair with a notebook, following a sidebar (just a sidebar!) of her advice to write down notes about all of your stories. Granted, she said to only take fifteen minutes or so. Two HOURS later, I was still scribbling notes and only made it to my late teens.
Quick fact you may not know about me: I have a head injury. Got creamed by a drunk driver in 2003. There were days I forgot things like words and my own grandmother's name. There are large swaths of my life path that are foggy or I just don't remember.
This morning, when I was making my scribbly list of stories, *I started remembering*, y'all. Things that were lost, stories that were foggy or forgotten.
By the time I stopped for the time being (my hand was cramping), I had a WEALTH of new resources to draw upon. For me, for that one tip alone? I'd buy ten of these books.
Then, though, she gets into her process, and through a whole host of absolutely gorgeous projects and unique techniques, she delves deep into those stories you've uncovered, and gives them the chance to be illuminated and seen. I've taken Jeanne's classes (which she has on her self-named site), and there are some projects that are repeats, just for the record. However, coming into them this time with another round of stories made the projects themselves new, as well.
Oliver has put into the world not just a beautifully photographed and well-organized art resource, but a kind of soul-level tool for self-discovery here.
I can not recommend it highly enough. It comes out in July. I suggest pre-ordering. Worth every penny, and about a million more.
July 2, 2018
The Painted Art Journal by Jeanne Oliver has the feel of days gone by with incredible story texture and clear detailed instructions on how to recreate some of Ms. Oliver’s own work.
Ms. Oliver’s photos show the detail you can add to tell your personal story through visual narrative. You can use your own personal supplies without having to break the bank when starting out.
One of the art techniques Ms. Oliver’s gives is Rust Transfers. This technique was fascinating to me and If I wasn’t in the middle of moving I would’ve enjoyed working my own personal touches into my journal page based on Ms. Oliver’s suggestions.
Such a beautiful instruction booklet to kick off your ideas.
I give this book 4 stars!!
I received this book from North Lights Books via BOOKishFirst in lieu of my honest opinion.
Ms. Oliver’s photos show the detail you can add to tell your personal story through visual narrative. You can use your own personal supplies without having to break the bank when starting out.
One of the art techniques Ms. Oliver’s gives is Rust Transfers. This technique was fascinating to me and If I wasn’t in the middle of moving I would’ve enjoyed working my own personal touches into my journal page based on Ms. Oliver’s suggestions.
Such a beautiful instruction booklet to kick off your ideas.
I give this book 4 stars!!
I received this book from North Lights Books via BOOKishFirst in lieu of my honest opinion.
January 9, 2022
For me to give a book 5 stars, it has to resonate with my soul, teach me something new, it has to feel like the author has just sat down for a conversation with me. And somehow it has to change me. This is everything this book did for me. Jeanne Oliver has a gift for inspiring the artist within. I highly recommend it for any creatives out there!
July 3, 2018
"Each of our stories is so different, lovely and broken in its own way." --Jeanne Oliver
The Painted Art Journal is such a beautiful book. It's a very creative step by step way to create your story artistically. Through a bunch of beautifully guided projects, it's like creating a visual autobiography, that you can use to pass on to your kids and to their kids - a wonderfully eye-catching journal to create your own style and design, tell your story, and fill it with memories!
There are 24 projects/prompts - each can be custom tailored to you, your style, your own sense of art and creativity in order to tell your story. Its a great tool to help find your creative side and develop style. There's a lot of inspirational sketches that are bit intimidating if you aren't very artsy! But they are beautiful just the same! Add sketches, photos, quotes, typography - you don't need to be a good drawer - but even if you aren't, it's still YOUR story - so who cares?! Have fun! The Step-by-step inspo is easy and simplified so you don't need to be Van Gogh to create something really unique and cool!
I really enjoyed this book - totally new and different and helped my hone my own artistic side that I had been supressing with a computer (agh!) since college! It was fun to break out the pastels and paints and paper again!
Thank you to North Light Books for the advanced copy to review!
The Painted Art Journal is such a beautiful book. It's a very creative step by step way to create your story artistically. Through a bunch of beautifully guided projects, it's like creating a visual autobiography, that you can use to pass on to your kids and to their kids - a wonderfully eye-catching journal to create your own style and design, tell your story, and fill it with memories!
There are 24 projects/prompts - each can be custom tailored to you, your style, your own sense of art and creativity in order to tell your story. Its a great tool to help find your creative side and develop style. There's a lot of inspirational sketches that are bit intimidating if you aren't very artsy! But they are beautiful just the same! Add sketches, photos, quotes, typography - you don't need to be a good drawer - but even if you aren't, it's still YOUR story - so who cares?! Have fun! The Step-by-step inspo is easy and simplified so you don't need to be Van Gogh to create something really unique and cool!
I really enjoyed this book - totally new and different and helped my hone my own artistic side that I had been supressing with a computer (agh!) since college! It was fun to break out the pastels and paints and paper again!
Thank you to North Light Books for the advanced copy to review!
June 27, 2018
First & foremost thank you so much to bookishfirst and to F&W Media for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review ❤️🙏🏻This book is absolutely beautiful & inspiring.
The first thing I did of course was go straight to the back of the book to learn all about our artist Jeanne Oliver in the "acknowledgements " section. At first glance I love her unique, seemingly eclectic style and the mix of vibrant colors that she chose to wear in her picture. I love that instead of going with the norm and only focusing on one special talent that instead she chooses to be an artist, a family-woman, a traveler and whatever else that she sets her mind to.
The second thing that I did was go through and read the book. All of the amazing quotes that she included were truly inspiring, my favorite being, " sometimes you never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory" by Dr. Seuss. I inherited many old photos from my grandparents as well as I love antiquing and finding old pictures and taking them home to try to figure out their story. I cannot wait to start my own storyboard! I think I will begin by practicing first on cardboard with some magazine and newspaper cut- outs and then once I get a feeling for what I am doing move onto my own personal memories placed strategically on a bulletin board.
I also love the journal idea! I'm an aspiring writer so journals are my babies, I really like the look of the older variety of papers, random colors and sizes all thrown in together as one. It's beautiful and one-of-a-kind! I always wanted to make a journal of my own but didn't even know how to begin !
Thank you for giving my best friends and I a new book to go through and play with when we have our girls crafting nights, my one friend has a one-year old , my other has two young children so we don't go out like we used to and instead find new & artsy projects that we can do at home, in front of the tv with some iced coffee while chatting and catching up.
I just so happened to get an acmoore coupon in my inbox this morning for 25 percent off of your entire order, so the possibilities are endless of what I might pick up today at the craft store! Journal & storyboard here I come.
Special note: thanks for also explaining what gesso is-- I never knew what that stuff was called, let alone that it had a variety of colors ! You learn something new every day 🙌🏻❤️
The first thing I did of course was go straight to the back of the book to learn all about our artist Jeanne Oliver in the "acknowledgements " section. At first glance I love her unique, seemingly eclectic style and the mix of vibrant colors that she chose to wear in her picture. I love that instead of going with the norm and only focusing on one special talent that instead she chooses to be an artist, a family-woman, a traveler and whatever else that she sets her mind to.
The second thing that I did was go through and read the book. All of the amazing quotes that she included were truly inspiring, my favorite being, " sometimes you never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory" by Dr. Seuss. I inherited many old photos from my grandparents as well as I love antiquing and finding old pictures and taking them home to try to figure out their story. I cannot wait to start my own storyboard! I think I will begin by practicing first on cardboard with some magazine and newspaper cut- outs and then once I get a feeling for what I am doing move onto my own personal memories placed strategically on a bulletin board.
I also love the journal idea! I'm an aspiring writer so journals are my babies, I really like the look of the older variety of papers, random colors and sizes all thrown in together as one. It's beautiful and one-of-a-kind! I always wanted to make a journal of my own but didn't even know how to begin !
Thank you for giving my best friends and I a new book to go through and play with when we have our girls crafting nights, my one friend has a one-year old , my other has two young children so we don't go out like we used to and instead find new & artsy projects that we can do at home, in front of the tv with some iced coffee while chatting and catching up.
I just so happened to get an acmoore coupon in my inbox this morning for 25 percent off of your entire order, so the possibilities are endless of what I might pick up today at the craft store! Journal & storyboard here I come.
Special note: thanks for also explaining what gesso is-- I never knew what that stuff was called, let alone that it had a variety of colors ! You learn something new every day 🙌🏻❤️
June 26, 2018
I could have written my review sooner. I should have written my review sooner. I had a feeling when I saw this book advertised that I was going to be happy with it. I was super excited when I was chosen to receive a copy in print format to review! As soon as it arrived I tore open the package and cleared my schedule. I was just going to page through and get a feeling for the book.
I could not stop at that! This book invites you in! It invites you to get comfortable, and begin exploring. Then you want to do more. You want to share the experience. I gathered some basic materials, nothing expensive. The author gently encouraged me to begin, to see what I was able to do.
Fear stops most artists. I believe we all have creativity in our souls. We just fear not being as good at others at expressing that talent, or being judged. By giving us simple steps to getting started, creating a ritual, setting up a space to express your creativity, taking telling your story in steps. Jeanine Oliver encourages the reader to explore and dig into her own creative well.
Combining private journal thoughts and storytelling techniques, explaining people in your life as a cast of characters, and wonderfully presented with muted photographs, this book was not intimidating at all. It is something I will return to again and again to repeat the process.
I am very grateful I was allowed an advanced copy of this book. The enjoyment, rating and review are all my own.
I could not stop at that! This book invites you in! It invites you to get comfortable, and begin exploring. Then you want to do more. You want to share the experience. I gathered some basic materials, nothing expensive. The author gently encouraged me to begin, to see what I was able to do.
Fear stops most artists. I believe we all have creativity in our souls. We just fear not being as good at others at expressing that talent, or being judged. By giving us simple steps to getting started, creating a ritual, setting up a space to express your creativity, taking telling your story in steps. Jeanine Oliver encourages the reader to explore and dig into her own creative well.
Combining private journal thoughts and storytelling techniques, explaining people in your life as a cast of characters, and wonderfully presented with muted photographs, this book was not intimidating at all. It is something I will return to again and again to repeat the process.
I am very grateful I was allowed an advanced copy of this book. The enjoyment, rating and review are all my own.
June 6, 2018
This year, I’ve embarked on a journey to explore more of my creative side, a side of me I’m not very familiar with and has been unused most of my life. I’ve found some wonderful books that offered lots of guidance, and I’ve been trying my hand at drawing and using colored pencils along with a gratitude book. I hoped to move more into journaling and maybe even some painting as time goes on.
The author, Jeanne Oliver, took the time to give very detailed information for this book. After starting with tools and basic supplies, she moves into projects: the book contains 24. Jeanne mentions that it helps her to have some rituals that she performs before she starts, and she offers some suggestions to help get ready such as music, deep breaths, prayer or even jumping jacks! Some of the 24 projects work with others: an example of this is that the first project is collecting your story and the second moves into displaying your story.
While I thoroughly appreciate how carefully this was put together and all the easy-to-follow directions, I like a lighter, happier look than the author displays in this book; I’m not a fan of the dripping paint, splotches and mostly drab colors that she uses. I do, however, feel this is a reasonably good springboard for me so I’m giving it 4 stars.
The author, Jeanne Oliver, took the time to give very detailed information for this book. After starting with tools and basic supplies, she moves into projects: the book contains 24. Jeanne mentions that it helps her to have some rituals that she performs before she starts, and she offers some suggestions to help get ready such as music, deep breaths, prayer or even jumping jacks! Some of the 24 projects work with others: an example of this is that the first project is collecting your story and the second moves into displaying your story.
While I thoroughly appreciate how carefully this was put together and all the easy-to-follow directions, I like a lighter, happier look than the author displays in this book; I’m not a fan of the dripping paint, splotches and mostly drab colors that she uses. I do, however, feel this is a reasonably good springboard for me so I’m giving it 4 stars.
August 17, 2018
Just seeing a small glimpse made me want to crawl inside the pages and live forever.
Jeanne Oliver captures beautiful images and inspiring instruction in her book. She offers a lot of great information about the different tools she uses, but also gives insight into the process and how to create fabulous works even if you do not have a giant stash of tools and supplies at your disposal. With her, it is all about embracing the story and creating.
There is a section on creative rituals. It made me want to start one immediately. She provides links to art prompts that can take you in new directions, and I'm sure they would be interesting as well.
To top it off, she offers a way to get started creating your own storyboard. If I could make one 1/10th as incredible as hers I would be happy. It is drool-worthy.
I can't wait to see the rest of the richness in this book!
Jeanne Oliver captures beautiful images and inspiring instruction in her book. She offers a lot of great information about the different tools she uses, but also gives insight into the process and how to create fabulous works even if you do not have a giant stash of tools and supplies at your disposal. With her, it is all about embracing the story and creating.
There is a section on creative rituals. It made me want to start one immediately. She provides links to art prompts that can take you in new directions, and I'm sure they would be interesting as well.
To top it off, she offers a way to get started creating your own storyboard. If I could make one 1/10th as incredible as hers I would be happy. It is drool-worthy.
I can't wait to see the rest of the richness in this book!
June 16, 2018
I am a crafty person bout I don't paint or draw. I was able to get a sneak peak and decided there would be enough to help me with my own crafting. When I got the full book, I was really excited. AS I went through the first two-thirds, I saw wonderfully and artful ways to tell my story! It inspired me to use my own crafting techniques to tell my own story in my own way. I want a hard copy of this book so I can truly gets hands on; that's how much I was inspired to tell my own story.
The last third mainly focused on drawing and painting but I still have many ideas for my own projects.
I would definitely recommend The Painted Art journal to my crafty friends!
I received an ARC from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
The last third mainly focused on drawing and painting but I still have many ideas for my own projects.
I would definitely recommend The Painted Art journal to my crafty friends!
I received an ARC from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
June 18, 2018
I'm blown away by this book. It contains multiple high quality pictures on every page, and easy to understand instructions for each step. The chapters are broken down by the type of art being described. There truly is something for everyone in this book, even people with no artistic talent like me. The author is a huge proponent of simply taking an inventory of what you already have and making art with those tools. She does not recommend or require you to go outand but a bunch of art supplies. I loved what she did with class photos, which is something you can also do with any group photo. I know I can handle making a vision board, too. This book gave me the confidence to actually try to be more visually artistic.
March 19, 2020
So I have to be honest.... I'm not much of an artist myself. BUT my ten year old daughter LOVES to draw. I figured this would be right up her alley as something we can do together.
I was right. She LOVED this book, and I did too.
The illustrations are stunning.
The message in the book is about finding yourself and expressing yourself through journaling and your art. As cliche as it sounds, you shouldn't be afraid to try new things either. This book helps you with that!
The author broke down the processes into easy to follow and easy to do sections. Journaling can seem extremely overwhelming at first, so this definitely helped.
The detailed instructions made it easy for even non-artistic people like me!
I was right. She LOVED this book, and I did too.
The illustrations are stunning.
The message in the book is about finding yourself and expressing yourself through journaling and your art. As cliche as it sounds, you shouldn't be afraid to try new things either. This book helps you with that!
The author broke down the processes into easy to follow and easy to do sections. Journaling can seem extremely overwhelming at first, so this definitely helped.
The detailed instructions made it easy for even non-artistic people like me!
June 12, 2020
I borrowed this from an artist friend. It has quite a few good ideas.
April 7, 2018
I received this book as an advanced reader's copy due to our patrons love for arts and crafts and this book was so insightful, the drawings are absolutely breathtaking, and the ides/tips/tricks are so helpful and informative that Jeanne Oliver can turn anyone into a original artist. The layout of this book especially was pleasing to the eye and easy to follow and understand the information Jeanne presents in the book. The idea of this book was needed for readers to see and as Jeanne says in the book "Each of our stories is so different, lovely and broken in its own way." A wonderful read that is sure to inspire and captivate reader's everywhere! 5 stars!
June 20, 2018
The third raffle book I won from Bookish First Reads. It is an easy to follow guide on how to make art journals. Every novice art student should own this. I love the quote, "go and make interesting mistakes, making amazing mistakes, make glorious and fantastic mistakes. Break rules. Leave the world more interesting for your being here. Make. Bad. Art." That is so true. Too often artists are perfectionists and cannot move forward. This book gives 24 examples that are easy to follow, come with examples and illustrations, and generally look appealing. A nice variety of mediums to work with will encourage artists to venture out of their boxes.
April 13, 2021
Alternative memoir forms are fascinating to me. I was hopeful that this book would give me inspiration and some processes for creating an alternative memoir of my own. It definitely helped with overall inspiration — the importance of telling one’s stories, the idea of using symbols and colours that are meaningful to you etcetera — but it was short on meaningful detail and the actual art projects were a turnoff for me. I’ve realized that I really don’t like the goopy, multi-layered look of gesso, image transfers, wetted charcoal, bits of wire and rust that are part of Oliver’s signature style. I knew that and shouldn’t have bought the book, but darned if I didn’t get caught by the concept of telling my story through my art.
July 8, 2018
Interesting and creative way of journaling. The design in each of the pages inspires me to recreate the styles I've seen on this book. I highly recommend it!
June 2, 2018
*I received a free advanced copy from the publisher via #netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a beautiful book with a ton of information on how to art journal your story. I’m a beginner in this art form, so I appreciate this book’s informative parts. She introduced me to unique supplies, clever techniques that I never considered before. The author really knows her stuff.
However, as is most common among artists, the author puts too much spirituality in her approach to art. As a Christian, I believe that creating art is an expression of humans’ being made in the image of God, just as Genesis 1:27 says. I also believe the fact that we can appreciate beauty in whatever form (a breathtaking sunset, a gorgeous painting, a heartwarming story, etc) is a testament to our reflection of God, our Creator. So, I agree with the author that there is a spiritual aspect to doing art.
She, however, takes it to another level. First of all, the point of the book is using mixed media to tell one’s story (through family history, old pictures, etc). But, from the beginning, she emphasizes that truthfulness is not important. She encourages the reader, “Your story can even be imaginary and what you want it to be” and “It is also OK on this creative journey to rewrite any part of your story through your art.”
If what you’re trying to convey about you is not true, then it isn’t YOUR story anymore. If I say that I’m related to Abraham Lincoln, which is not true, and make an art journal that says so, then it isn’t my story anymore. It’s just an art journal about a fictional story.
She encourages rituals (meditations, speaking out loud key words, etc) before doing art, which I found weird. Maybe this is what makes me a hobby artist and not a “real” one. The author seems to take art too seriously when it’s meant to be a fun endeavor.
The section on Mark Making was confusing to me. If the point of the chapter is to find what makes your art yours by the distinct marks you make, then what is the point of the mark making suggestions in this section? By doing her suggestions, then it is no longer your own mark, but a mere imitation of another artist’s.
Overall, the book has many things to teach anyone who is new to mixed media. I like these parts very much. But I am not a fan of and found uninspiring the author’s too serious approach to art, her messy style and the busy randomness of her artwork.
————————
On a similar note (though not really part of my review), after reading this book, I realized mixed media is the art form for our post-modern age. Beauty is treated too subjectively that a haphazardly put together collection of photos, notes, ephemera, paint, etc. are passed as art. Of course, I don’t dispute there is a subjective aspect in how we perceive beauty, but it should not be completely that. As an amateur artist, I am saddened by the reality that we all are expected to accept and appreciate any form of art, without much regard to objective beauty.
This is a beautiful book with a ton of information on how to art journal your story. I’m a beginner in this art form, so I appreciate this book’s informative parts. She introduced me to unique supplies, clever techniques that I never considered before. The author really knows her stuff.
However, as is most common among artists, the author puts too much spirituality in her approach to art. As a Christian, I believe that creating art is an expression of humans’ being made in the image of God, just as Genesis 1:27 says. I also believe the fact that we can appreciate beauty in whatever form (a breathtaking sunset, a gorgeous painting, a heartwarming story, etc) is a testament to our reflection of God, our Creator. So, I agree with the author that there is a spiritual aspect to doing art.
She, however, takes it to another level. First of all, the point of the book is using mixed media to tell one’s story (through family history, old pictures, etc). But, from the beginning, she emphasizes that truthfulness is not important. She encourages the reader, “Your story can even be imaginary and what you want it to be” and “It is also OK on this creative journey to rewrite any part of your story through your art.”
If what you’re trying to convey about you is not true, then it isn’t YOUR story anymore. If I say that I’m related to Abraham Lincoln, which is not true, and make an art journal that says so, then it isn’t my story anymore. It’s just an art journal about a fictional story.
She encourages rituals (meditations, speaking out loud key words, etc) before doing art, which I found weird. Maybe this is what makes me a hobby artist and not a “real” one. The author seems to take art too seriously when it’s meant to be a fun endeavor.
The section on Mark Making was confusing to me. If the point of the chapter is to find what makes your art yours by the distinct marks you make, then what is the point of the mark making suggestions in this section? By doing her suggestions, then it is no longer your own mark, but a mere imitation of another artist’s.
Overall, the book has many things to teach anyone who is new to mixed media. I like these parts very much. But I am not a fan of and found uninspiring the author’s too serious approach to art, her messy style and the busy randomness of her artwork.
————————
On a similar note (though not really part of my review), after reading this book, I realized mixed media is the art form for our post-modern age. Beauty is treated too subjectively that a haphazardly put together collection of photos, notes, ephemera, paint, etc. are passed as art. Of course, I don’t dispute there is a subjective aspect in how we perceive beauty, but it should not be completely that. As an amateur artist, I am saddened by the reality that we all are expected to accept and appreciate any form of art, without much regard to objective beauty.
July 1, 2018
I received a copy of The Painted Art Journal through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I’ve always loved the look of aged art journals. I can’t quite place my finger on it, but I’ve always found them to be aesthetically pleasing. Naturally when I saw The Painted Art Journal I knew I had to give it a chance and read it cover to cover.
Jeanne Oliver’s artwork is quite frankly, striking. Like any good teacher (which is what she becomes in this book) she’s gifted and knowledgeable in the subject she’s instructing on. Really there’s no argument about her talent, one glimpse at the artwork inside this book will leave little room for doubt.
Jeanne Oliver included an introduction, a basic description of art journaling and her method, as well as dozens of other little tips. Also included is a list of suggested items for us, and how she personally prefers to keep them sorted. I adore these sort of tips, so this was a fantastic touch as far as I’m concerned.
The main chunk of the book is broken into twenty four projects, as the title suggests. Each one thematically matches the rest, and it fits in with her art style as well. Here she explains the goal and purpose of the project, gives hints, tips and ideas, and sometimes basic instructions. She’ll also occasionally include specific explanations for how she created a certain effect in her examples.
I haven’t yet had a chance to start any of the projects in this book, but believe me I fully intend to. There’s no way I could resist following Jeanne Oliver’s guidance here. So I can promise you this will be getting placed on my desk, to ensure I come back to it very soon.
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
I’ve always loved the look of aged art journals. I can’t quite place my finger on it, but I’ve always found them to be aesthetically pleasing. Naturally when I saw The Painted Art Journal I knew I had to give it a chance and read it cover to cover.
Jeanne Oliver’s artwork is quite frankly, striking. Like any good teacher (which is what she becomes in this book) she’s gifted and knowledgeable in the subject she’s instructing on. Really there’s no argument about her talent, one glimpse at the artwork inside this book will leave little room for doubt.
Jeanne Oliver included an introduction, a basic description of art journaling and her method, as well as dozens of other little tips. Also included is a list of suggested items for us, and how she personally prefers to keep them sorted. I adore these sort of tips, so this was a fantastic touch as far as I’m concerned.
The main chunk of the book is broken into twenty four projects, as the title suggests. Each one thematically matches the rest, and it fits in with her art style as well. Here she explains the goal and purpose of the project, gives hints, tips and ideas, and sometimes basic instructions. She’ll also occasionally include specific explanations for how she created a certain effect in her examples.
I haven’t yet had a chance to start any of the projects in this book, but believe me I fully intend to. There’s no way I could resist following Jeanne Oliver’s guidance here. So I can promise you this will be getting placed on my desk, to ensure I come back to it very soon.
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
June 20, 2018
The Painted Art Journal is a beautiful book written by an artist that loves muted, earthy colors, is inspired by vintage books and flairs, and loves to just create.
One of the great parts of this book is that it is full of colored pictures and quotes, plus step-by-step instructions. It is okay if you are not an artist, she does not expect you to be. Really, the heart of the book is to just start creating. It does not matter if it is ugly, messy, "bad" art, etc. The point is to put your story in action, no matter what the medium is.
She also does not abide by a timeline either. The author is about putting your story, no matter how you want to tell it (even if you skip or modify a few parts), out there for you.
I wish it had were some places to doodle ideas in the book after she suggests something. Some place to add ideas, though to be fair I could do that pretty much anywhere in the book. I'm sure the author would even encourage that!
The other issue I have are the colors. I prefer bright colors and to have a book that is so muted throughout bothers me for some insane reason - they always have. It's weird, but it's true.
However, if you also have that same weird issue, I encourage you to fight through it and just look at some of her ideas! They will open up a creative side to you that you may not know exists!
She is all about using what you have at your house and much of what she does is relatively cheap and easy. It really is about telling your story in a fun and engaging way!
Book Cover
The cover is very eye-catching and is what made me want to do the first impression in the first place.
One of the great parts of this book is that it is full of colored pictures and quotes, plus step-by-step instructions. It is okay if you are not an artist, she does not expect you to be. Really, the heart of the book is to just start creating. It does not matter if it is ugly, messy, "bad" art, etc. The point is to put your story in action, no matter what the medium is.
She also does not abide by a timeline either. The author is about putting your story, no matter how you want to tell it (even if you skip or modify a few parts), out there for you.
I wish it had were some places to doodle ideas in the book after she suggests something. Some place to add ideas, though to be fair I could do that pretty much anywhere in the book. I'm sure the author would even encourage that!
The other issue I have are the colors. I prefer bright colors and to have a book that is so muted throughout bothers me for some insane reason - they always have. It's weird, but it's true.
However, if you also have that same weird issue, I encourage you to fight through it and just look at some of her ideas! They will open up a creative side to you that you may not know exists!
She is all about using what you have at your house and much of what she does is relatively cheap and easy. It really is about telling your story in a fun and engaging way!
Book Cover
The cover is very eye-catching and is what made me want to do the first impression in the first place.
May 20, 2019
An inspiring guide to creating your own painted or handmade journal with your own personal story, history, and life elements reflected within its pages. I appreciated the famous quotes layered throughout to help achieve said inspiration, but I felt that some of the instructions were repeated over and over again for completing multiple projects that were not only unnecessary but could have been edited out to save time. The projects are all numbered and are explained very roughly with not enough detail, in my opinion. I also think some of the projects should come with a warning label because they seem unsafe and possibly hazardous. For instance, the author mentions collecting and using rusted objects, such as nails, that you find in your backyard to make vintage art, which could cause tetanus in certain individuals if they are not vaccinated and if they accidentally cut themselves with these rusted items. The art depicted in the journals are simply too depressing for me as well. I am not fond of the color schemes she uses in her examples, but to her credit, she does mention that you should choose the color palette that best fits your authentic story, so I guess that’s fine. The writing style is lackluster and I believe she could have greatly benefited from a stronger and more capable editor to get her points across clearly and succinctly. Overall, I would suggest reading this mostly for the inspirational quotes and to learn more about a specific type of art journaling, but not for much else. An average read, for sure.
April 20, 2018
Wow, I literally read the entire book in one whole day. I was so inspired, motivated and driven to create the most beautiful projects Jeanne shares throughout the book. This is something you could leave out on the coffee table and be inspired from frequently.
I loved the way she shared not just the projects, but the stories behind them...her reason and why. I enjoyed getting to know her and her passion. I took notes, snapped some photos for quick reference and started on my own projects inspired from the book. I loved how there were pictures of the progression of each project too. It makes following along with her much easier.
I learned many techniques and proper wordage, but I think the thing that smacked me hard was the freedom that we have as Artists. There are no "rules", we set the scene, we carry the emotion that comes out of us into whatever medium we choose.
I recommend if you are new to the world of creating to pick up this book. I have been painting for years and have kept Bible journals and personal journals my whole life and I still was mesmerized by the work in this book. If you are in a stale place and need some inspiration, Jeanne has you covered. She even offers Art Prompts at the back of the book. In my opinion just seeing her work though her own journals are so inspiring....the photography is gorgeous!
I loved the way she shared not just the projects, but the stories behind them...her reason and why. I enjoyed getting to know her and her passion. I took notes, snapped some photos for quick reference and started on my own projects inspired from the book. I loved how there were pictures of the progression of each project too. It makes following along with her much easier.
I learned many techniques and proper wordage, but I think the thing that smacked me hard was the freedom that we have as Artists. There are no "rules", we set the scene, we carry the emotion that comes out of us into whatever medium we choose.
I recommend if you are new to the world of creating to pick up this book. I have been painting for years and have kept Bible journals and personal journals my whole life and I still was mesmerized by the work in this book. If you are in a stale place and need some inspiration, Jeanne has you covered. She even offers Art Prompts at the back of the book. In my opinion just seeing her work though her own journals are so inspiring....the photography is gorgeous!
August 18, 2018
From just the sneak peek and first sample of this book, it is amazing. I never would have thought to create a story board collage art piece before because it seemed daunting. But from this preview it doesn't seem overwhelming at all. The list of materials and different mediums was a little long but I loved how each one was explained. I did find that tea and coffee as a medium was very unique and am very intrigued in using this in my story board. The author broke down how to create a story in a thoughtful and creative way and gave great examples of how to do this.
I found these sentences to be very helpful and inspirational:
IF YOU THINK YOUR STORY ISN’T GOOD
ENOUGH, YOU ARE MISTAKEN.
IF YOU ARE AFRAID TO TELL YOUR
STORY, MAYBE IT IS TIME TO FIND
FREEDOM.
IF YOU HAVE NEVER TOLD YOUR STORY,
IT IS TIME.
IF YOU WANT TO CREATE AUTHENTIC ART
THAT NO ONE ELSE CAN CREATE—LET’S
GET STARTED.
I also love the various quotes throughout the preview and would be excited to keep reading and seeing the other quotes that are throughout the book. I love adding quotes to a story board with pictures, art and trinkets to bring everything together.
A very unique guide book that seems easy to follow and exciting for creative artsy people who may not have a lot of artistic ability but can shine with a project like this.
I found these sentences to be very helpful and inspirational:
IF YOU THINK YOUR STORY ISN’T GOOD
ENOUGH, YOU ARE MISTAKEN.
IF YOU ARE AFRAID TO TELL YOUR
STORY, MAYBE IT IS TIME TO FIND
FREEDOM.
IF YOU HAVE NEVER TOLD YOUR STORY,
IT IS TIME.
IF YOU WANT TO CREATE AUTHENTIC ART
THAT NO ONE ELSE CAN CREATE—LET’S
GET STARTED.
I also love the various quotes throughout the preview and would be excited to keep reading and seeing the other quotes that are throughout the book. I love adding quotes to a story board with pictures, art and trinkets to bring everything together.
A very unique guide book that seems easy to follow and exciting for creative artsy people who may not have a lot of artistic ability but can shine with a project like this.
July 4, 2018
THE PAINTED ART JOURNAL offers a focused alternative to traditional written journals and diaries. Author Jeanne Oliver inspires readers of all ages and artistic abilities to let their art evolve and sing out as their memories of fun and challenging times, as well as their deepest feelings, grow into creative expression.
New and old experiences can emerge in unexpected, exciting, and eclectic patterns. With gentle guidance, reader/artists are lead to combine a variety of materials, styles, equipment, techniques, and approaches to enhance their emerging creativity,
often beyond their original expectations.
The book's striking photographs and related quotations will inspire even the most casual readers to consider searching their homes for basic materials and equipment to make a strong foundation for exploring art, memories, mind, and feelings.
THE PAINTED ART JOURNAL builds its concept from the beautiful
A LIFE IN HAND, Creating the Illuminated Journal, by Hannah Hinchman.
For future editions, diversity in the examples shown would be welcome;
otherwise the audience will be quite limited.
New and old experiences can emerge in unexpected, exciting, and eclectic patterns. With gentle guidance, reader/artists are lead to combine a variety of materials, styles, equipment, techniques, and approaches to enhance their emerging creativity,
often beyond their original expectations.
The book's striking photographs and related quotations will inspire even the most casual readers to consider searching their homes for basic materials and equipment to make a strong foundation for exploring art, memories, mind, and feelings.
THE PAINTED ART JOURNAL builds its concept from the beautiful
A LIFE IN HAND, Creating the Illuminated Journal, by Hannah Hinchman.
For future editions, diversity in the examples shown would be welcome;
otherwise the audience will be quite limited.
June 19, 2018
This stimulating book is a useful tool for creative souls who wish to construct a visual narrative of their lives. Jeanne Oliver, the author, provides 24 guided projects to inspire you to create your own unique journal of art missions that express the real you in a way nobody else can.
I’m not even a fraction as crafty as the author, but she is detailed and expressive, making the journey feel doable. The book is filled with photographs, so the visuals help tremendously, as many artists respond to visual instruction.
Overall, I’m pleased with The Painted Art Journal. Following its direction to create a personal art journal might not be for everyone, such as those who prefer clean lines and conventional pages. But for those quirky souls who see the world differently, for those who see creative uses for mostly overlooked, everyday items, for those who enjoy making something from very little—this book contains an inspirational treasure trove.
Cover: Like
Title: Like
Publisher: North Light Books
Pages: 160
#QuirkyArtistry #JournalYou
I’m not even a fraction as crafty as the author, but she is detailed and expressive, making the journey feel doable. The book is filled with photographs, so the visuals help tremendously, as many artists respond to visual instruction.
Overall, I’m pleased with The Painted Art Journal. Following its direction to create a personal art journal might not be for everyone, such as those who prefer clean lines and conventional pages. But for those quirky souls who see the world differently, for those who see creative uses for mostly overlooked, everyday items, for those who enjoy making something from very little—this book contains an inspirational treasure trove.
Cover: Like
Title: Like
Publisher: North Light Books
Pages: 160
#QuirkyArtistry #JournalYou
June 30, 2018
This is a fantastic book for anyone wanting to dip their toes into Art Journaling. I'm actually a digital scrapper by nature, but this book was more about the storytelling, and giving yourself permission to really let your emotions and ideas flow, so I got a ton of ideas that could easily be used with physical or digital media. Plus, it actually created an itch to play with paints and chalks and papers and books, so I can totally see myself using all sorts of Oliver's ideas both physically and digitally (separate and together). My favorite part of this book was the author's enthusiasm for telling your story, whatever story that might be, in whatever way you're comfortable with. There's no "right" way to art journal, and that clearly came through with this book. As an added bonus, there are so many amazing quotes scattered throughout the pages, I can't wait to use some! Bottom line, this was a great book for both new and experienced art journalers (though probably more relevant to a new artist). I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to explore art journaling!
July 3, 2018
This book is artistic and practical at the same time. Great combination!
I'm looking for ideas on how to present genealogy in a visual manner, and this book is the perfect prescription. I also wanted to revamp an old book with boring content (is that really a thing?!) and use it as a memorial book of my grandmother.
There are so many ideas that I can use from The Painted Art Journal for these projects. Two chapters will be of particular use to me: Chapter 5 Alternative Journal Options and Chapter 9 Creating Your Timeline. This book is well organized to be a useful resource because of the clearly stated purpose of each of the chapters.
This book is truly an overall win. It contains gorgeous photographs of the projects, the resource list for each project is easy to use, and the instructions are coherent and detailed.
The Painted Art Journal is going to be a part of my resource library for a long time!
Thank you to BookishFirst for sending me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm looking for ideas on how to present genealogy in a visual manner, and this book is the perfect prescription. I also wanted to revamp an old book with boring content (is that really a thing?!) and use it as a memorial book of my grandmother.
There are so many ideas that I can use from The Painted Art Journal for these projects. Two chapters will be of particular use to me: Chapter 5 Alternative Journal Options and Chapter 9 Creating Your Timeline. This book is well organized to be a useful resource because of the clearly stated purpose of each of the chapters.
This book is truly an overall win. It contains gorgeous photographs of the projects, the resource list for each project is easy to use, and the instructions are coherent and detailed.
The Painted Art Journal is going to be a part of my resource library for a long time!
Thank you to BookishFirst for sending me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2018
The cover art of The Painted Art Journal does a good job of conveying the main ideas in the book, that being using the visual medium to tell the life story of the reader. Although the author claims to be honoring a vintage book by defacing its pages and changing the binding, I did not get the feeling that the actual book meant anything to her except a vehicle for her art. I did like the idea of telling my story, of displaying it artistically to pass on to future generations.
There is not a lot of instruction in The Painted Art Journal, with few projects to spark creativity. The book is pretty to look at, but does not go far enough in giving readers true direction. In the end, the author brought me no closer to starting my own art journal than I was before. For these reasons, I would be hesitant to recommend The Painted Art Journal to beginners who have no direction in which to start on their own.
There is not a lot of instruction in The Painted Art Journal, with few projects to spark creativity. The book is pretty to look at, but does not go far enough in giving readers true direction. In the end, the author brought me no closer to starting my own art journal than I was before. For these reasons, I would be hesitant to recommend The Painted Art Journal to beginners who have no direction in which to start on their own.
September 22, 2018
When I first saw the sample, I knew I was going to love this book. I wasn't disappointed. The book contains a small section on art supplies, how to create your own journal from vintage books and how to bind papers into an art journal.
One of my favorite sections was how to create a portable art studio - including how to create a portable watercolor palette and the author's list of supplies in their own personal portable studio. This is great for anyone who wants to have a few supplies on hand at all times, just in case inspiration strikes.
There are sections on mark making, timelines (the topic of these art journals being events in your life), composition. And throughout the book, beautiful pictures and techniques that give me inspiration to try things, or to alter them to my own mixed media styles.
In all, the book is a great source of information and I'm so glad to have it in my collection.
One of my favorite sections was how to create a portable art studio - including how to create a portable watercolor palette and the author's list of supplies in their own personal portable studio. This is great for anyone who wants to have a few supplies on hand at all times, just in case inspiration strikes.
There are sections on mark making, timelines (the topic of these art journals being events in your life), composition. And throughout the book, beautiful pictures and techniques that give me inspiration to try things, or to alter them to my own mixed media styles.
In all, the book is a great source of information and I'm so glad to have it in my collection.
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