Navigating Waters
Art Prompt: Imagine yourself as a boat navigating the water. Draw or paint an image of your vessel, considering the shape, size, and condition of the boat. Is it sturdy or weathered, large or small? Next, focus on the water around you. Is it calm, choppy, or stormy? Are you drifting peacefully, battling waves, or anchored in place? Lastly, explore the weather: Is it sunny, foggy, or filled with rain and thunder? Use these elements to reflect on your current state—how do the condition of your boat, the water, and the weather mirror your emotions, challenges, or strengths? Let this creative process guide your exploration of resilience, support, and your journey through life's waters.
Materials: Watercolor paint, watercolor paper, watercolor brushes
In response to the art therapy prompt of creating an image of myself as a boat on the water, I found myself drawn to the symbolism of a sailboat on the horizon—a vessel that reflects my current journey through life’s ups and downs. The sailboat I created has a strong, sturdy foundation, with one sail still intact and guiding the boat forward. However, the other sail is detached, flapping loosely in the wind, representing the recent struggles and obstacles that have threatened to pull me off course.
This sail, no longer attached, feels like the parts of life that haven’t gone as planned—moments of loss, setbacks, or challenges that leave me feeling unanchored. Yet, the fact that the boat’s structure is still sound and the intact sail continues to catch the wind reminds me that I am still moving forward, finding my way despite these disruptions.
The backdrop of my scene portrays a sunset, a symbol of peace and the promise of renewal. It serves as a reminder that there are still moments of beauty and calm, even amid life’s turbulence. However, dark clouds creep into the frame, hinting at the unpredictability of what lies ahead—constant changes, the good and the bad, the known and the unknown. These clouds reflect the ever-present sense that life can shift at any moment, from tranquil to stormy, but the sunset reminds me that light still remains.
Creating this image allowed me to visualize my resilience, the strength of my foundation, and the reality of navigating both light and shadow. My sailboat may be a little battered, but it is not sinking. It’s a powerful reminder that while we can’t always control the weather or the state of our sails, we can stay afloat, adapt, and continue our journey, trusting that each wave and wind is part of the broader course of life.
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 the process, 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.
