Doodling is an artform that many of us have practiced since we were young, whether intentionally or subconsciously. We all have our own artistic style, and it is displayed very clearly in the marks we make. For me, doodling is a time to make marks, experiment with lines and shapes and let them take over the page. Doodling is my form of meditation. As I work, it takes me to a place of relaxation and comfort. I don’t plan out what I am drawing; the pen dances on the page as I let my intuition take over. Each mark leads to the next, and the result is never exactly what I expected. I never double-think or question the marks I’m making, but rather I let the marks spill onto the page. It’s a fluid motion, unfolding over the canvas without a plan—total freedom.
My hope is to inspire you to create your own style of doodling, one that is completely distinct from anyone else’s. It’s easy to be influenced by other people’s art, but making your own marks is essential to growing as an artist. I will provide you samples of my art and inspirational anecdotes to guide you toward creating your own signature style.
Throughout Doodles Unleashed, I share numerous photos, ideas, links to online content and images that will hopefully inspire you to find your own doodling style. The Creative Exercises and Jumpstarts are meant to be mixed in whatever fashion you’d like. There is no particular order to work in; skim through the book and open to a page that inspires you. Choose an exercise and be open to play!
I hope that through these exercises, you discover what doodling means to you and how to incorporate it into your art, life, journals and everyday creativity. Whether you devote ten minutes or an hour, doodling can be a great exercise to get your creative juices flowing. Grab some paint, paper, adhesive and pens and have fun with the exercises. Keep experimenting and striving to find your style. There is no right or wrong way to doodle; just pick up a pen and start making marks.
Visit my website, www.treicdesigns.com, for additional inspiration, digital downloads and online workshops.