It's Okay if you don't Like My Art by Dina Wakley

"The article inspired me to do my own fun girl". 

Amena Butler

article by Cloth Paper Scissors Today
It doesn't take long to realize that mixed-media artist and Art Journaling Live instructor Dina Wakley likes to have fun, especially when she's teaching and sharing art journal ideas. Her secret? "I have a good sense of humor and try not to take myself too seriously. I'm pretty dorky," she said in an exclusive Q&A with me. Here's more:

I love the sincerity and vulnerability shown in this art journal page by Dina Wakley.

CH: What's one mistake that you've made as an artist, and what did you learn from it?
DW: Thinking that everything I do has to be good. And, thinking that I have to be good at something immediately. In reality, art takes practice! You work and work and work and, if you're lucky, you get a few good pieces with lots of learning experiences in between. 

CH: What's the best art advice that you've received, or your favorite bit of advice to give to students?
DW: I always tell students that art journaling is NOT about making good pages, it's about expression. I always say done is better than perfect, and suppliers will always make more paper!

CH: Any funny stories or anecdotes relating to your art workshops you'd like to share?
DW: Once I gave a group a lecture about being careful where the nozzle is pointing when you use spray ink. Then I proceeded to spray green ink up my neck and face. Yep, do as I say, not as I do!

CH: Who should watch Art Journaling Live?
DW: Everyone! Art Journaling Live has techniques and tips that will fuel your art making for months and months.

CH: Just for fun—what's your favorite ice cream?
DW: Mint Oreo cookie.

Get a sense of the lighthearted and inspiring nature of Dina's workshops in this preview of Art Journaling Live, an online experience for artists like you. In addition to Dina, the video also features art journaling superstars Julie Fei-Fan Balzer, Pam Carriker, and Traci Bautista. Now it's your turn! What's one mistake that you've made as an artist, and what did you learn from it?
 Cherie Haas, Online Editor
Cloth Paper Scissors Today