It isn't even a chicken or egg question, the mind comes before art. The state of an artist's mind is what presents the filter for creative energy to be expressed. This implies that if an artist is in a negative frame of mind the art will be a reflection of that and also true is that if the artist is in an open and joyful state of mind so to will the art have that quality. Art therapists and art historians both view art with the scientific objective of discerning the state of the mind of the artist and their external influences while creating a work or works of art. So it seems that the artist themselves are conscious of what they are thinking or feeling, what it is they want to convey, what materials and imagery best reveal their idea.
A student of mine recently asked if artists created art perfectly right off or if they were "flying by the seat of their pants" or what? Actually, it's some of each. When we look at a finished piece of art a viewer may assume that the artist has life and art under control. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Art is a practice and process and expression. I suggested to my student that she spend some time looking at artists' sketchbooks which are like journals or diaries in visual form. It is there that we can see the steps and process involved in creating a finished work. Often times these initial sketches are beautiful in their authenticity. It is this direct sort of gesture and energy that many artists strive to convey in their finished works.
It is here that I wish to return to the mind and art. If in fact we all have minds with thoughts and emotions, elementally interconnected, then creative expression is available to anyone. The idea that a person doesn't have an artistic bone in their body is simply untrue. I'm not suggesting that everyone will become a famous artist; I am stating that anyone can be creatively expressive. And art materials can be a very enjoyable and lively way to be free.
Art journals are a great place for authentic expression. It is a place of reflection and awareness of ourselves, our circumstances, dreams, aspirations, experiences, and revelations can be explored, viewed, aired, and released. Maybe it is art for the masses. Yet it is the collective consciousness that we need to bring greater awareness to; the first step being through the individual. It is very exciting to have art materials and journals for this adventure.
