This art journal page is bold, beautiful, and came together in under 40 minutes! With layers of vibrant color, textured details, and a shimmering gold finish, this project is proof that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting, this heart-centered design is a fun, expressive way to play with paint, texture, and movement.
Tape off the edges of your art journal page with painter’s tape to create a clean border. Using a palette knife, spread a layer of White Gesso across the page, adding texture as you go. Once applied, dry it thoroughly with a heat tool.
Now, let’s bring in some color! I’m using Primary Cyan, Pyrrole Red, and Yellow Green Light to create a vibrant background. Grab an old gift card or hotel key card and swipe the paint across the page in different directions, layering the colors for a rich, textured effect. Once you’re happy with the look, dry the page again before moving on.
Using White Gesso, paint a large heart in the center of your page, then dry it thoroughly with a heat tool.
Next, fill the heart with Primary Magenta, creating a bold focal point. Once dry, use your finger to lightly swipe on some White Gesso, adding depth and dimension.
For definition, outline the heart with Black Carbon paint using a liner brush. To enhance the shading, trace around the heart with an Aquarellable Pencil, then mist lightly with water to activate the pigment. Use a baby wipe to gently blend and soften the edges, creating a shaded effect. I’ll also tilt the journal up, mist the page with water, and let it drip. Dry again.
Using a liner brush and DecoArt Extreme Sheen 24k Gold paint, add short, quick strokes around the heart for a touch of shimmer. Then, dip a fan brush into the gold paint, tap it gently against another brush, and let the splatters create a textured effect across your page. Dry thoroughly.
To finish, apply a coat of DecoArt Acrylic Sealer (Gloss) to protect and enhance your artwork. Carefully remove the painter’s tape, step back, and admire your beautiful masterpiece!
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Supply List:
- Grumbacher Mixed Media 5.5 X 8.5
- Painter’s Tape
- Acrylic Paint: Pyrrole Red, Primary Cyan, Yellow Green Light, Carbon Black, Primary Magenta
- Gold Acrylic Paint: DecoArt Extreme Sheen 24k Gold
- Gesso: Decoart (White)
- Ink: Dare 2b Artzy (Black)
- Pencil: Aquarellable (Black)
- Brushes: Dynasty
- Sealer: DecoArt Acrylic Sealer (Gloss)
Check out Tracy’s Art Journal Starter Kit!
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