Art Journaling Video with Guest Artist Donna Downey

We are excited to showcase the work of mixed-media artist and journaler Donna Downey. Today she gives us a glimpse into her creative life and shares a beautiful art journaling video tutorial.

Welcome, Donna! How have you combined your background in teaching with your passion for art?

I think that when you are passionate about something, the greatest gift is sharing it. Being a teacher, it is my instinct to share my creative process with others (including the good, the bad and the ugly). Teaching is not only a way for me to share, but also to make connections with other creatives like myself. Many of the relationships I have made have been life changing. Whether it is via in-person or online workshops, or the Inspiration Wednesday section on my blog, where I share a weekly video of my creative process, the simple act of sharing has inevitably made me a better artist.

You’re a well-traveled artist; what has been your favorite crafting destination?

Culturally, I think that South Africa and Israel are two of my favorite countries, because I came away with such a broader global perspective. However, I really do not think that the destinations are as impactful as the relationships I have made with people I would not have otherwise been as lucky to meet.

What is your go-to mixed-media technique? How have you incorporated it into your projects?

You know, this changes a lot for me. I kind of run in spurts and do a technique for a long while and then change to a new one. Right now I would say I really like layering bold colors of acrylic paint and then accenting with colored India Inks.

What is one material you cannot live without?

Right now, I would say it is Golden Fluid acrylic paints.

You incorporate such lovely words of wisdom into your journals like “inspire and create” and “follow your passion.” What words of advice do you have for aspiring artists?

One of the things I remind myself of when I get into my own creative head is that art is not about skill, it is about the ability to see. If you are clouding your head with too many expectations, you are blocking your creative line of sight.

Describe your studio to us! Is it as bold and colorful as your art?

My new studio is a dream come true for me. It is bright, colorful, and filled with natural light. When we chose this space we knew it would fill all of our needs: a large spacious classroom for our workshops and retreats, a roomy shopping area, and even a gallery space to display my finished pieces. It is fun to see how the community reacts when they walk into the new space. It is perfect!

You incorporate such lovely words of wisdom into your journals like “inspire and create” and “follow your passion.” What words of advice do you have for aspiring artists?

One of the things I remind myself of when I get into my own creative head is that art is not about skill, it is about the ability to see. If you are clouding your head with too many expectations, you are blocking your creative line of sight.

Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

I have several projects in the works, one of which is a collaborative art project happening at my studio called The Altered Brush Project. I would love to share this idea and get as much participation as possible. We also have event weekends at the studio; I encourage artists of all ages and skill levels to join me in creating!

Inspiration Wednesday Video from Donna Downey

A big “Thank you!” to Donna for being here today! Donna Downey creates her art in her North Carolina home with her husband and three children. Her work has been featured in Altered Couture, Sew Somerset, and Somerset Apprentice, as well as the current issue of Art Quilting Studio. To view more of Donna’s vibrant mixed-media creations, I encourage you to visit her (brand-new!) website and blog.

Photo and video by Donna Downey