In art-making at some point you might take a step back from your artwork and engage with your “inner observer”.
The inner observer is the ability we have to notice and assess the bigger picture. Practice mindful art-making: create without judgement, allowing whatever arise to be expressed with the materials. Over time this practice will help you develop a compassionate and insightful inner observer. By embracing your inner observer art-making becomes a powerful tool for personal growth and healing.
📝 Journal Prompt: “Meeting My Inner Observer”
“Close your eyes for a moment and imagine your inner observer as a presence within you — quiet, gentle, and wise. What does it notice when you create? What does it say when you pause and step back from your work?”
Reflect on:
- When do you feel most connected to this part of yourself?
- How does your inner observer differ from your inner critic?
- What helps you hear its voice more clearly — silence, breath, certain materials?
- What do you want your inner observer to help you see, accept, or understand through your art?
Let your response be honest and gentle. This is about noticing, not fixing.
🎨 Art Prompt: “Through the Eyes of My Inner Observer”
Create a piece that represents what your inner observer sees when it looks at your creative process, not just your final artwork. This might include:
- Layers, marks, or symbols that reflect emotion, resistance, flow, or insight
- Using your non-dominant hand for a portion, to bypass judgment
- Stepping back periodically to add one element you see only when you pause
- Collaging past works or “mistakes” as part of the new piece — embracing the full process
Let go of expectations. Focus on expressing awareness rather than achieving a result.