Artist's block isn't as commonly used as writer's block, but it happens all the same. When that happens, artists turn to journal prompts to get their inspiration flowing and put something down on the paper. Sometimes, this means challenging themselves to draw something every day in a month, like during Inktober. Other times, it means drawing something specific during a set time, like making mermaids in Mermay. When all else fails, artists turn to art journal prompts to get them out of their comfort zone.
Here are my favorite art journal prompts I have found over the years.
1. Inspirational Quotes
Write down a favorite quote in a fun font and decorate around it.
2. Illustrate a favorite poem
Copy down your favorite poem and add doodles on the edges.
6. Your map
Paper World Geography Notebook Brochure Pen MapCreate your own map, real or imaginary, that represents something about you.
8. Literal pie chart
Make a pie chart and fill it with doodles of all your favorite foods.
10. Paint with tea
Drink some tea, and when you're done, paint the page with a pretty picture made from the stain.
11. Pressed flower pages
Pick up flowers and leaves and press them into the pages.
12. Paint swatches
Go to a hardware store and grab your favorite color palettes.
13. Create contrast
Nature Black White Art Man Silhouette SilhouettesFill the page with patterns using only black and white.
14. Draw a dream
Just like a dream journal, sketch down what you dreamt the night before.
15. Illustrate the elements
Represent each of the elements with a detailed drawing.
16. Fortune cookie future
Paste in fortune cookie fortunes that impact you, or write some of your own!
17. Illustrate song lyrics
Pianist Music Note Lyrics Instrument Sheet MusicTurn your favorite tunes into a work of art in your journal.
19. Tape in tea tags
Collect trinkets from places you like, or tags from treats you enjoy.
Time to crack open a new sketchbook and get to work breaking it in with these brilliant ideas!
