Mindfulness in Drawing: Meditations on Creativity & Calm

by Wendy Ann Greenhalgh

Everyone can draw, and everyone can be mindful. Mindfulness in Drawing is an engaging and enlightening insight into how setting pencil to paper is a meditative act by its innate nature, and how this creates a deeper connection between ourselves and the world around us. Through mindful creative exercises and personal anecdotes, doodlers and artists at any level in their craft will gain practical experience in and discover the joys of drawing mindfully. Written by Wendy Ann Greenhalgh, a writer, artist and teacher of creative mindfulness for over 20 years, this book offers a fresh outlook on perception, flow and instinct, and demonstrates how the combination of creativity and mindfulness helps us realise our potential for inner freedom and wellbeing.
 
 

144 pages, Hardcover

Published June 20, 2023

Reviews

[Yamini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just a disclaimer it's not an illustrated but a descriptive textbook. The book takes you through different topics of mindfulness and how to attain it in not just your drawing but body and mind too.

I liked the little exercises and prompts the book had to cover for the topics it discussed that helped us implement those ideas. It felt therapeutic and would have loved it even more if it had some actual drawings - specifically in the Figure drawing area.

If someone is interested do an after research too. The endnotes in the book is a good point to start.

[Dustyloup · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this little book. It's like two books in one.
1) a kind of devotional book for mindfulness. Something to put in your cozy reading corner or slip into your bag to read while waiting at the doctor's office
2) Exercises to encourage you to apply the concepts of mindfulness through drawing.

If you are looking for a book that formally teaches you how to draw, this isn't it, but if you've always been curious about mindfulness but are not attracted to sitting meditation (or are interested but terrified by the idea of sitting still, in silence) this could be the book that opens you up to the concepts.

If you are looking for a book to help you start drawing or get back to it, even of you're "bad at it" it could also take some of the apprehension away because most of it is about making marks on the page, observing, being...not about creating a specific work.

It's *almost* as religion free/neutral as the works of John Kabat-Zinn or Siegel bit there are occasional reference to traditional practices using the native language vocabulary which might be off putting to a fundamentalist Christian for example but it's really light and is just there to give a broader context.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance digital ARC but i would recommend getting this in the paperback edition. It would be more useful and enjoyable

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This title is part of a series on mindfulness in…knitting, baking and several other activities where mindfulness can be practiced in every day life. This one is about connections between mindfulness and drawing. When I thought about reading this book, I considered how I doodle and how this can be a soothing activity. Therefore, I was curious about what I might find in these pages.

As is true of other books in this series, readers will find personal anecdotes, suggestions for practice and more. It is a welcome addition to a good series. Find the one(s) that speak to you; they may just help in achieving at least a temporary sense of calm.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are mine.

[Sara Landricombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of Mindfulness in Drawing by Wendy Ann Greenhalgh
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book from net galley UK.

Wendy Ann Greenhalgh’s Mindfulness in Drawing is an inspiring and meditative journey into the world of art and mindfulness. This book stands out not just as a guide for improving drawing skills, but as a holistic approach to cultivating presence and creativity through the act of drawing.

A Blend of Art and Mindfulness
Greenhalgh beautifully intertwines mindfulness practices with drawing techniques, making the book accessible to artists of all skill levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist, the book gently encourages you to embrace drawing as a process rather than a product. The focus is less on achieving perfection and more on being present in the moment and connecting with the world around you.

Practical Exercises and Encouragement
The exercises are thoughtfully designed, offering step-by-step guidance while leaving plenty of room for personal exploration. Greenhalgh’s tone is warm and reassuring, making it easy to let go of self-judgment and dive into the creative process. From quick sketches of everyday objects to contemplative drawing practices, the book provides a wide range of activities that encourage slowing down and truly seeing.

Visual Inspiration
The book is visually appealing, with its clean layout and engaging illustrations. Greenhalgh includes examples and sketches that complement her teachings, adding a personal touch that makes the material relatable and inviting.

Beyond the Page
What truly sets Mindfulness in Drawing apart is its ability to teach lessons that extend beyond art. The mindfulness techniques—focused attention, acceptance, and the joy of discovery—can be applied to daily life, helping readers to approach their surroundings with a renewed sense of wonder and calm.

Final Thoughts
Mindfulness in Drawing is not just a book about drawing; it’s a guide to rediscovering the joy of creativity and reconnecting with the present moment. Wendy Ann Greenhalgh has crafted a thoughtful, engaging, and empowering resource for anyone looking to embrace mindfulness and creativity in tandem. Whether you’re an artist, a mindfulness practitioner, or simply curious about the connection between the two, this book is well worth your time.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking a refreshing, meditative approach to drawing and life.

[Fae k · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Mindfulness in Drawing: Meditations on Creativity & Calm" by Wendy Ann Greenhalgh is a fascinating look at drawing and mindfulness. Greenhalgh's skills as a writer, artist, and mindfulness teacher help readers find inner serenity and self-discovery. The book inspires artists of all abilities to unleash their creativity and experience the peaceful power of drawing with personal experiences, practical exercises, and insightful insights. Greenhalgh shows how sketching may lead to significant self-expression, independence, and well-being via art and mindfulness.

In conclusion, "Mindfulness in Drawing: Meditations on Creativity & Calm" provides a powerful and approachable introduction to mindfulness via drawing. Wendy Ann Greenhalgh expertly weaves art, mindfulness, and personal stories into a remarkable reading experience. This book helps people discover their creativity, inner tranquilly, and connection to themselves and the world.

4/5 Stars from me.
***A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.***

[Renwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

With so much focus on mental health in the media at the moment, it was great to find a book that gives practical ways on how to cope with the stresses of life through art and drawing.
I have never considered myself to be any good at drawing and found it very helpful to make use of the techniques outlined in the book. The instructions were clear and I was able to follow the steps as described. Whilst I may never become expert at drawing, what was more important were the positive benefits that I gained in the process.
The inclusion of illustrations from the author added to the overall enjoyment for me, although it is worth mentioning that there were moments in the book when I would have appreciated the pace to be less rapid. However, that is just as likely to be something personal to my own capabilities.
Overall, this is a great book to add to your bookshelf.

[Jenny Blacker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not quite sure what I expected to find in this book, but it didn't seem to hit any expectations for me. It's neither a book on meditation/mindfulness or on drawing, but some strange hinterland between the two, meaning it doesn't really do either very well

There are a handful of nice exercises in it, but I suspect if you were drawn to it from the 'drawing' bit of the title you'd be expecting more pictorial drawing exercises or tutorials, and if you were drawn by the mindfulness part of the title there's not really anything except for beginners here

I do hope it finds its market, I'm just not sure what that is!

I received an advance copy for free from NetGalley, on the expectation that I would provide an honest review.

[Leilani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not much of a drawer but I suppose it is because of the thought that I am not really good at it. And this book altered my perspective.
Picking up this book by chance, I was reeled in by its title and as I flipped through the pages, saw passages that resonated with me - not necessarily in drawing but in every day life - bringing into focus the joy and importance of being in the present.
Whether an artist, an amateur or anything in between; this was a quick and gentle yet beautifully written and to the point book that I could recommend to anyone. It is nice to be reminded of being mindful, the everyday, the mundane, the impermanent, the flexible. I feel refreshed with a desire to be ever present in a rushed and complex world. To stop and smell the roses.
And maybe even draw them!

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main takeaway I got from this book of mindfulness meditation while drawing is how to find my way back to the carefree creation of art from my inner child's point of view. How to let go of the end result and just draw! Also, you can take the same approach to many things/activities in your life.

If you've struggled with mindfulness and meditation in the past, the approach as described in this book might help you relax and go about things in a different way. Release your perfectionism and enjoy yourself.

I received an electronic copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Witch-at-Heart · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mindfulness in Drawing is a thought provoking book. This is more of a book on inner reflection and finding ways to add it to your art or doodling rather than a drawing tutorial book. If you are expecting instructional lessons this book does nit contain that. However, it is helpful in understanding ways to promote and encourage creativity within your drawings. It’s an interesting read. It wasn’t what I expected but it was still interesting. I enjoyed the book.

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

A glorious intuitive guide that opens our eyes inward as well as outward. I'm only half way through, but I'm really enjoying it...wonderful.

[Georgiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful, insightful little book. I love the drawing meditations in there. If you’re looking to ignite/re-ignite a passion for drawing and creativity, this is the book for you!