Junk Journaling: Redefining Art and Artistic Identity

 

When I first discovered junk journaling, I was amazed by how it claimed its space between traditional creative categories. It made me question what I thought I knew about art and who gets to call themselves an "artist."

If you have ever wondered if what you are creating counts as art, you are not alone. I have come to realize is that if we look at contemporary standards—the intention behind our creations, the expression of our inner worlds, the aesthetic choices we make, and the meaning we infuse into our work—junk journaling absolutely qualifies!

There is something magical about transforming discarded materials into something meaningful, expressing our deepest thoughts through these tactile creations, and welcoming everyone to the table regardless of formal training or background. But honestly, I have found that the label matters far less than what the practice gives us: a playground for creative exploration, a sacred space for documenting our lives, a tactile way to play with materials, and a community of like-minded people who understand the passion.

The question of whether we could call ourselves artists is an individual choice, influenced by our unique relationship with creativity and the cultural influences that come with claiming that identity. What I believe matters most, however, is not the title we choose, but recognizing the immense value in what we create—both the physical journals that chronicle our journey and the profound transformative experience of making them.

I give myself permission to embrace the beautiful ambiguity of junk journaling's artistic status. I believe we all can appreciate how this practice expands our understanding of creative expression beyond old, rigid boundaries. Perhaps what I love most about junk journaling is its radical suggestion that art doesn't need museum walls or professional credentials to matter deeply. Our journals aren't just beautiful objects—they are opening new possibilities for how we understand creativity itself, and I find that incredibly empowering.