I’ve been tired of late.

I’ve been holding space for others during August, visual journaling and out in nature. And as we go back to school, I’m ready for slowing down and enjoying my favourite time of year.

Staying close to home, and being kind and gentle with myself, I pulled out the brown paper I’ve been collecting/recycling and just put some paint on them.

And before I know it, I’ve created a new journal. With a painted cardboard cover it reminds me of Cartonera, the cardboard publishers that started in Argentina, where books and journals are created from recycled cardboard.

I used to do this years ago and didn’t realise that it’s a political and artistic practice that came about because of economic hardships. It’s a movement that democratises literacy and publishing and opens up access to anyone and everyone. Thanks to Dal for bringing the origins of this practice to my attention.

So I’ve got a new journal to play with. I love making books, journals and cartoneras because it’s an easy way to satisfy a creative itch without getting all complicated.