Admire
Art Prompt: Think of someone in your life that you admire. Create an image that represents one of their qualities that you value.
Materials: Watercolor paper, watercolor, paint brushes
If you’ve been following this art blog and you’re over using watercolor, don’t worry - I promise I’ll be adding more modalities and examples. You can also use ANY materials you’d like for any of these art prompts.
Think of someone in your life that has been a role model, or someone that you have always admired. Think about their qualities and what it is about them that you look up to or value. Create an image to represent one quality (or a couple) that you admire about that person. You could also create an image that represents your relationship with that person, or how that person bought out positive qualities in you. It may take a little time to think of a person, or choose just on or maybe one popped into your head instantly. Once you’ve chosen a person, explore what you value in their lifestyle, personality, relationships and profession. Whichever quality (or qualities) speak the loudest to you - go with that!
For my person, I chose my Mom and her consistent positivity. I wanted to portray her infectious optimism, and the symbol of a butterfly popped into my mind. I decided to create a monarch butterfly because they are not flashy with colors but still beautiful. I felt that a monarch butterfly represents my mother’s personality, highlights her positivity and her the ability to influence those around her.
Journal prompts for further exploration of the directive and/or image:
Explore more about your relationship with the person that you admire.
With the quality you highlighted, explore the ways you could implement that quality within your own life.
What are some characteristics you value in yourself?
Tips:
I am vague in my description of my image for two reasons: A.) this is an example to help people see the progression and thought behind art therapy prompts, B.) so that my image and description does not stifle your own creative exploration within this prompt.
Do not overthink the art directive. Jump into creating with your first thought and allow the image to form itself.
Explore the artwork when you’re completed and see what you notice in your colors, method, imagery. Sometimes you’ll have new insights once you’re finished creating.
Materials will be suggested, use whatever you have access to or materials you’d prefer.
Work as little or as long as you’d like.
Don’t create thinking of a product, focus solely on the process. This may not be something you’d like to hang on the wall and that is perfectly fine and often preferred 🙂
You may not always be able to reflect on your image and understand what it means. Sometimes just simply engaging in the art process is therapeutic enough.
While these directives are designed for deeper exploration of self, sometimes they may cause one to feel overwhelmed. These prompts should not replace therapy. If any of these prompts bring up unsafe emotions and you feel you are a danger to yourself or others, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital.
