Step 4 – Add Symbolism or Intentional Imagery

An Emotional and Narrative Deep Dive in the Art Journaling Process)

This would be the next natural step after Step 3 (Build Texture) and would focus on giving shape to meaning. After building layers of color and texture, this is where the story emerges. It’s about consciously choosing symbols, imagery, and personal language that carry emotional or spiritual weight.

What This Step Could Include:

1. Understanding Visual Symbolism

• Introduce common archetypal symbols (e.g., keys, birds, eyes, circles, doors, spirals)

• Explore personal symbols (e.g., objects from childhood, favorite animals, recurring dreams)

• Invite journaling prompts to uncover individual visual languages

2. Types of Intentional Imagery

• Cut-out magazine imagery

• Vintage photos or family ephemera

• Drawn or painted figures

• Iconic shapes (hearts, crosses, moons, stars, maps)

• Astrological, mythological, or spiritual references

3. Ways to Apply It

• Collage and blend into background

• Draw over textured areas

• Use photo transfer techniques

• Embed symbols with stencils, stamps, or stitching

• Add hand lettering with significant words or phrases

4. Creative Prompts to Include

• “Choose a symbol that represents where you are in your life right now. Add it to your page.”

• “Think of a recurring dream or memory. Is there an image that captures its essence?”

• “Create a self-portrait using only symbols and abstract shapes.”

This step would be deeply personal, mythic, and philosophical, perfect for helping people uncover the story within their layers.