The pest..
Art Prompt: Create an image that represents something in your life that often appears suddenly and repeatedly.
Materials: Watercolor paper, watercolor and sketch pencils
You can either go with the first thing that comes to mind or journal about the prompt first to fully explore what it means to you at this time. You may think of a person, situation, behavior, feeling, etc. Sometimes when creating art for an art prompt, your image will not always be a perfect metaphor when put into words. When creating or exploring the prompt, try not to get lost in finding the best image for the directive. Whatever comes up - create, and if nothing comes up - create anyway.
For my image, I went with a feeling: the first feeling that came to my mind. In my art, I wanted to depict how abrupt this feeling may arrive. I wanted to highlight that I could be feeling one way then switch quickly to the next. I decided to create an image of a deck of cards, and each card in the deck displaying a different feeling (or a few familiar feelings). Also, how I sometimes feel like a victim to that feeling that is chosen for me. The deck of cards highlights the unexpected nature of how I sometimes feel, and the situation of not always thinking I am in control.
Journal prompts for further exploration of the directive and/or image:
For whatever came up from the directive, explore the ways that you stay in control versus the ways you sometimes feel out of control.
Is there a type of person that you feel repeatedly enters your life? Explore the patterns within these relationships.
In regard to what you chose to depict in your image, how can you work on to limit how often it “pops” up in your 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 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.
