When I began scoping out this idea in weeks 5/6/7 I mentioned how journals were popular. I have decided to further look at how I can use them as inspiration as they are associated with being good for mental health, relaxing and playful. Journals can encourage experimentation and more importantly; are unique to each individual who owns one. I wanted to capture the different ways that people complete their pages and felt this was best by looking at videos people have uploaded publicly to show their work. Here are some examples: (sound not required! Just a visual reference – can watch these sped up!)
These are all particularly interesting in that they capture each unique interaction from the owner of the book, with the book. Nobody’s two pages would be the same as it stems from individual interpretation of the activities/challenges which of course vary with different perspectives, background, location, age and knowledge etc. I also love the ‘scribbled’ typography in these books as it instantly presents the book not as an artistic journal where each page has to be perfect, but as just a page where things can be doodled, scribbled on, ripped out etc. It’s raw and this is what I love.
Although this is an empty version I thought it would be good to see what it actually looks like when empty. As you can see the style of the illustrations and writing appears to be scribbled and almost messy. This in itself conveys a very creative message as it encourages play!
1 page at a time
Again, very similar to WTJ above. Maybe slightly more note-book like as less illustrative and more about writing, but still encourages play.
Start where you are
This one is personally one of my favourites as I love illustrations and the colours in the pages as opposed to being completely blank. I also picked up on the introduction where the journal isn’t designed to be ‘in order’ and can be completed randomly. To be fair I think all of these journals can be randomly completed as they include so many styles of creativity.
I am here now
“I am here now” looks more structured and includes writing. I think this is more of an ‘activity book’ rather than a journal, but I think it’s interesting seeing this as I could apply my workshop brochure principle in this format especially as I am thinking about including information that could be useful for learning. Even my activities could include instructions.
365: A Daily Creative Journal
This is a wonderful video of a lady who has completed journals which I just had to share! I find it really inspirational. The different colours, styles, snippets of additional paper such as tickets, photos and pockets make it like a memory of that time. Most importantly this captures creativity and experimentation which is the most important message I am trying to present. I have noticed from watching this is how personal journals like this can be and how a journal can be really meaningful.
jesswhatley.design.blog 