It was one of those weekends I marvel at. Twelve people, plus myself, who mostly are strangers, spending 2 1/2 days together. The range of experience in the group was vast: a couple of people had never done anything like making an art journal before, and a couple others taught classes like art journaling and book binding. Most were experienced in between the two. Even with all that difference, the creativity and connections flowed smoothly, with freedom and laughter throughout. Here is a photo of our journals (and feet) at the end:

We had a wonderful time creating together:

And chatting over lunch:

Here is a photo of all the Lovlies in the courtyard garden right outside the studio...

In the art journaling workshop each person:

1. Planned the theme and color palette of their journal

2. Put together, cut, and sewed a short journal made of watercolor paper

3. Marbled papers and pages

4. Painted with stencils

5. Doodled stencil shapes

6. Added and layered collage items

7. Added meaningful lettering and text

8. Learned how to tie journal elements together using color and paint

9. Connected in person with other creatives in my studio

10. Had a great time and created a beautiful journal

As a bonus this year, my friend Bernice Hopper from the UK participated in the workshop. I met on line in her "A-Z of Me" art journal challenge a number of years ago. You can visit her blog at: http://newlycreative.blogspot.co.uk/This week as I'm reflecting on our time together and putting the finishing touches on the journal made in the workshop, I am considering the next workshop... and looking forward to more!NEXT TIME: I will be posting the journal I made during the workshop demonstrations.

Cheers to you and your next creative adventure!