Day #10 Journal Prompt

Details: Paint an abstract Monarch Butterfly.

Message: The caterpillar’s metamorphosis from a tree clinging, 12-legged worm into the majestic flying butterfly is downright amazing! It’s not just a total physical change, but an emotional one too! Butterflies behave very differently too caterpillars.

And while this beautiful transformation may seem attractive from the outside, this process is pretty darn GRUESOME deep inside the chrysalis. In short, for a caterpillar to turn into a butterfly, it digests itself using enzymes triggered by hormones. Then, sleeping cells (similar to stem cells) grow into the body parts of the future butterfly. Puberty is NOTHING compared to this painful process!

To get our wings we must first go through an incredibly uncomfortable process. One that is ugly, scrappy, dark, and downright weird! I’m sure Mr. Caterpillar thought, “Why am I going through all this pain, what’s the point?” If we focus on the pain, it will be all that much more uncomfortable. We must celebrate the wings we’ll have at the end! That we WILL finally be able to fly - accomplish our dreams, overcome debt, beat addiction, or depression. And we won’t just change physically, but mentally we will be more confident, determined, patient, trusting, and kind. Now that’s one beautiful, colorful transformation if you ask me!

Paint Colors: Any colors because part 2 of this tutorial requires you to step out on a limb and create your own design! I used Black, White, Cadmium Yellow, Cadmium Red, Orange, Raw Sienna, Phthalocyanine Blue.

Other Supplies: Small flat brush, small liner brush. All materials and brands are listed HERE.

Instructions: After you complete this creative prompt, use the left side to write down the questions shown below this tutorial. I encourage you to write inside your art journal using your favorite pens, pencils, or markers. Once you’ve completed both sections, post/send just your drawing/painting for a chance to win. NOTE: If you’re left handed, switch the side you plan to paint and write on.