Art Journals

A War, a Map, and a Notebook

In January 1991, the Gulf War broke out in Israel.

It was a difficult time—we were required to carry gas masks everywhere, and schools were closed
In the newspaper, a map of Israel was published, divided into numbered zones so we would know when to enter the shelter. I used that map for creation.

I wrapped a notebook with it, filled its pages with poems, drawings, and reflections on my experience.

Today, I realize that this was my very first visual journal.

Discovering Visual Journaling

By fifth grade, without even knowing it, I was already creating a therapeutic visual journal.

I cut out pictures from newspapers, illustrated, painted, invented imaginary stories, and even wrote short rhymes. I never imagined that one day I would become an art therapist, guiding children and teenagers to create their own journals.

Academic Journey

During my art therapy education process, I was given the opportunity to design a personal track around a subject I was passionate about.

My mentor introduced me to the concept of an art journal, and I devoted an entire semester to creating one.

Through this process, I deepened my understanding and discovered new techniques for working in a simple notebook.

Returning to the Journal

Sixteen years after finishing my degree—and after years of avoidance and creative block—I now find myself drawing non-stop. Once again, inside a notebook. This time, it is the war and the current situation that brought me back to journaling.

But unlike the past, I now create with full awareness—knowing what I am doing and why. 
It is intuitive.

It is therapeutic.

It is healing.

What Is a Visual Journal?

A visual journal is a personal notebook where we record our inner processes.

• It may have a specific theme—or none at all.
  (For example: family, nature, or a life event such as a wedding, military service, etc.)
• The goal: to create.
• To let the process of making art become part of our lives.
• To allow ourselves to look at the world differently—more calmly, more deeply.

For me, the journal is a form of personal meditation.

It gives me a fresh perspective on places, people, and experiences.

Your First Steps

To begin your own journal:

1. Visit an art supply store (even a simple one like Max Stock) and choose materials that spark your curiosity.
2. Set aside a daily time—no matter how short—to dedicate to your journal.

And then… let’s begin.

Want Guidance?

• Send me a message if you’d like a recommended starter supply list.
• Send me a message if you’d like to join a quiet WhatsApp group, where I’ll share prompts, ideas, and creative tasks.
  (Participation is optional—everyone at their own pace, in their own space.)

The Goal

The purpose of this group is simple: to spark creativity.✨ No prior artistic experience is needed.