Surrealism = Composing with Emotions

The idea of approaching art and creating a composition can be overwhelming. Maybe the first thought that comes to mind is “I’m not good at this”, “this is just a fun experiment”. While I want you to have fun exploring with art, I would encourage you to dig deeper in your composition. Before you select a canvas, think of colors, or even reserve a time to paint there is a crucial element: identifying an emotion.

A simple question transforms your creative process “what do I want to say?”. I recommend writing everything that comes to mind in post it, on the back of canvas, or even a journal. Our emotions, thoughts and ideas matter; truth is it’s very easy to focus on everyday obligations and ignore what we want to say. The creative process should not be approached with “what do I want to say to others” but with “what do I want to say to myself”. The canvas is a mirror, a portal to a communication to our soul.

Getting Started

• Brainstorm: List random nouns, verbs, and concepts; find surprising connections. Write everything that comes to mind, even if it sounds silly!

• Collect Images: Gather photos or magazine clippings of things you find interesting, weird, or symbolic. It doesn’t have to relate to what you’re feeling. Don’t limit your curiosity with

• Experiment: Combine elements, alter colors and tones, and focus on creating a sense of mystery or wonder, not necessarily realism.