Artists' Journals and Sketchbooks: Exploring and Creating Personal Pages

When I was fifteen, I was studying visual arts at a higher IB level. Part of the requirements for this was keeping an idea sketchbook, and the books of cartoon doodles I had wasn't really acceptable. Luckily for me, my professor had this book.Each page is absolutely dynamic - bright colours, really lively well-designed pages, a variety of styles, and quite a few instructions. It hadn't occurred to me before this book that sketchbooks were not necessarily all-graphite studies. I was absolutely captivated, and it opened up a whole new host of ideas for me about the potential for artistic journals and mixed-media techniques. I loved browsing through this book, and ended up buying my own copy.I find that I don't look back on is much as I used to, so this isn't for the experienced artist. But for someone just starting out, it was an invaluable resource and I'm grateful for it.

I have been familiar with Lynne's art for years and have never tired of it. She has an ability to keep it fresh by constantly pushing herself to try new things. This book is a fine examole of that. I was so pleased that this was NOT "how to: book but more of an inspiring and motivating book. The book sings with color and what a treat after a sepia over dose in some of the paper craft magazines of late. I have had the wonderful experience of taking a class from Lynne and this book was able to accomplish the same feeling of renewal and excitement that her class did for me. I tell my students in my journaling and collage classes that what I like about teaching is that I get to see the world through many sets of eyes and this book provides this experience with the fine artists' work included! You need this book!!!!

I purchased this book when I first began art journaling. Some of the good things about this book are several artists are featured, so many styles are shown in the photos, which is helpful to a beginner. There are also fairly good step by step instructions on how to do certain artistic techniques, in particular, photo transfers. There are ideas on how to use and re-use images, how to create covers for journals and other types of artwork. What I found intimidating about this book was there weren't very many comments on actual materials (types of papers, inks, paints, etc), which for a beginner was a little disappointing, because at the time I didn't know anything about what's available in terms of products. Other books filled that niche for me. But this book is wonderful in terms of inspiration and generating ideas once I had a better foundation of the basics.

This is a book full (and I do mean "full") of ideas and techniques for getting artists and designers excited about using their sketchbooks, and perhaps, in getting those sketchbook pages to a larger canvas, as it did in my case.It is beautifully laid out, well-written and just plain fun to look at. I love looking at the work of other artists, and this book gives each journal designer lots of room, close-up and personal, to showcase their best work.If you need a little kick to get you going, get you started, or get you interested in collage painting, assemblage, art journaling, or you want to check out interesting creative techniques, this is a good addition to your design library.Highly recommended as a book that won't be shoved into the bookcase, but used over and over as a creative tool to help you fill your books with the art of life.

I recommend this book for those into art journaling. I was very delighted and facinated by the many tips that pointed me in the right direction in my very own journey as a art journalist. The colorful illustrations brought even more life to each page. Each time I pull it out, I find a new idea that I can put together, so it's definitely not a book that you'll just read once in my opinion. I use this book each and everytime I make an entry into my journal because of the inspiration it gives me. Thanks Lynne for such an amazing book!

I just received my book today, and let me tell you...this is a joy to go through! Never in my imagination could I even conceive of some of the journals that Ms. Perrella showcases in this book. I also own the book "The Decorated Page" and love that one as well. But "Artist Journals" seems a little more welcoming in its explaination of how to create the journals shown in the book, as well as give you ideas on creating various other journals.I'm going online to check for art materials right now. I cannot wait. If you are looking to awaken your creative muse, purchase this book. You will not be disappointed.

This book may not be for absolute beginners, as it is not a recipe or a step by step instruction book. However anyone who is familiar with mixed media techniques will benefit from the mini instructions and suggestions. I like this book not only for the well organized instructions and examples, but also that it covers everything from creating the pages to the cover and bindings. The showcase of other visual journalists creations are absolute eye candy. If you are blocked and looking for a jump start this is good book for that.

I have been on fire since I opened the pages of Lynne Perrella's, Artists' Journals and Sketchbooks! Every page has me completely and utterly mesmerized, and after each purusal, I found myself bolting up the stairs to my makeshift studio to create art. I haven't gone to bed before 1:00 am since I opened the book, and frankly, I think I'm going a little nuts, but in a good way. Lynne has helped me find my "inner artist", and I guarantee that she will help you find yours as well. Just buy the book, you will not be disappointed.

This artist shares her journey into the deep process of art journalling. The process is profound, and she shows the reader sound techniques, whilst at the same time enriching the reader's experience of this novel medium of self expression. The emphasis is on discovery and playful creativity. It is beautifully illustrated and presented, with just the right balance of helpful, insightful text, technical hints and visual material. A pure joy. It will be a companion to me, and a validation as I follow this unique and profound inner path. Well done Lynne Perella.

I was very unsure about this book when it arrived - being a methodical person my first impression was that the ideas were very 'messy' BUT, having gone through the book several times, it is beginning to grow on me and give me ideas about forming a journal of my own. There are many interesting ideas illustrated throughout the book some of which I can see being useful to me and I am now glad that I bought it, whether it is to everyone's taste I am not sure but I think, if you are considering creating an art journal - or two or three - then this book would be a valuable resource.

This Book IS GREAT, GORGEOUS and you can learn lots of things about Journals and Sketchbooks.You are going to have lots of ideas as soon as you start looking at this AMAZING BOOK.A MUST HAVE for you that wants to keep your Drawings/Sketches, Trips, Ideas, Day Work,Dreams, Projects recorded in a fun and different way.Doesn't matter your age or background.BUY IT NOW and start creating you own Journals and Sketchbooks; and call them as you wish.

It looks really good. I haven’t had chance to read it yet but flicking through it was really interesting. I will look forward to trying things out now

I loved this book. As a practicing artist I am always looking for way to expand my artistic expression and this is really stimulating. The pages are quite visual which definitely helps but supported with simple "how to" information. I found itvery stimulating.The sheer breadth of ideas in this book is really challenging and i am sure there would be something in it for every creative person. It helped me realise also the importance of creating an artist journal to help me decide what I like and what is not so relevant in my life, and the journey is fun and exciting. ~The reader is exposed to many types of creativity, layers, textures, messages, colours - the list is endless. Yes i would definitely recommend it to any creative person to broaden their skills and mindset