I’m super excited to announce that I have the honor of hosting over at Art Journal Journey this month.
I have chosen the theme of Words to live by.
An art journal page just doesn’t seem complete without at least one word on it if you ask me. I’d say that I’m a stickler for the rules and true definition of a journal but that would be a big fat lie. I’m more of a rules are meant to be broken sort of gal…just don’t tell my kids at home or school. However, the gals over at Art Journal Journey do have some rules to adhere to if you want to play along so be sure to check them out.
For my first journal page of the June theme, I began with an abandoned piece of painted watercolor paper. I think Mini-me was attempting a night sky perhaps. Or maybe it was even me…who knows…who cares. It became the base as I began to stack layers of papers and fabric until I found a pleasing arrangement.
I used my sewing machine to loosely stitch the background layers together while I still contemplated where my page was headed. I rarely have an end goal in mind when I sit down to create. It really tends to stifle my creative process.
After a time, I decided on an image I know I have used at least once…but I’m thinking perhaps twice in the past as my focal point. I slipped a piece of dictionary page and scrap of vellum under the image before attaching it with brads. 
The page was really coming together now. I added a few extras such as washi tape, a punched medallion and vintage button before searching out words for my page.
In general the words are my last but critical step in my journal process. As I said before, I cannot seem to create a page with words. Found text is really my favorite way of adding words. The challenge to find something relevant that speaks my mind is so much fun!
When I noticed this phrase I thought it very fitting for the crew in the photo. What is up with this group anyway? Siblings, co-workers, man and his many wives, school chums, glee club…what’s their story? I bet it could start with the phrase “Strangest thing happened…”
Won’t you join me for Words to live by over at Art Journal Journey?
An AMAZING example page for your fantastic topic! Have fun! Happy June, happy AJJ!
Happx weekend!
Susi xxx
I am in awe of this entry, dear Halle. Most impressive, right down to the wonderful sewing. The composition is great and the colors work so well together. I had to laugh at the idea of a man and his many wives. Thanks for this first entry and a great example of your theme at Art Journal Journey.
Wonderful page and fab collage work. Love the positioning…one of those that looks so easy until you come to do it and realise how much skill is involved in putting it together. Perfection. Brilliant theme for AJJ…I can get my head round this one ;-)
Cath x
Great to see you as a hostess at AJJ Halle! Also this is a great page to start your challenge. I love the night sky and the photo you used too. Hugs-Erika
Those words to add the perfect touch. I love your composition here.
Halle it is a fantastic page and a great theme you have set for this month.
I love how you layered the pieces and super words to go with the photo you added.
Wonderful page, Halle. It’s lovely and also very thought-provoking. Actually, the theme itself is thought-provoking. Eileen xx
Super page and layering! I always wonder about vintage photos of ppl.. Who are they? What life did they live? So curious?….
Thanks for the inspirations & great topic challenge
https://heartnsoul-amy.blogspot.com/2019/06/words-to-live-by-artjournaljrny.html?m=1
I love this page and enjoyed reading your journey as you put it together Great inspiration … now to get my thinking cap on.
Hugs, Neet xx
Wow, what a stunning make! I love the design with all the layers and stitching – beautiful ?. I was so pleased to see that you are guest host at AJJ this month and I’m loving her new challenge theme! I always love expressing my life through words and pictures so this challenge really appeals to me ?. You have provided such fabulous inspiration too! Happy and creative wishes! Jo x
Absolutely beautiful page, Halle! I love the background and it’s so cool that you found it and used it later for this page. And that photo is simply wonderful. I also love your stitching. Thanks so much for hosting this fun challenge!!! HUGS, Sharon
I love your stitching on here and the photograph! An amazing creation. Thanks for sharing.