Nikki Luscombe | Creative Workshops

Tag: writing

  • A Tour Through My Journal Ecosystem

    My eight‑year‑old self would be quite delighted to know that I now have something called a journal ecosystem — because surely that means I’m living a wildly exciting life. (Eight‑year‑old me also loved writing detailed accounts of most meals she ate. She had some very deep feelings about lasagna.)

    My 50‑plus self loves my journal ecosystem for different reasons. I recently learned the term refers to the habit of keeping many notebooks at once, and honestly, it feels like a good description of how I manage my world. My journals give me space to express my thoughts and feelings without judgment, while playing, planning, and processing.

    In the photo below, you’ll see my current stack. Let me take you on a little tour — from the bottom up:

    Stack of creative journals including an art journal, bullet journal, sketchbook, and notebooks used for mixed‑media play and workshop planning.

    Art Journal

    Started during my time at the wonderful Haliburton School of Art, this journal is filled with mixed‑media experiments and playful explorations. It’s my reminder that creativity doesn’t need an outcome, just curiosity.

    Inner‑Most Thoughts Journal

    Not its official name, but definitely its purpose. This is where I pour out the hard stuff — the dark‑night‑of‑the‑soul reflections, the stream‑of‑consciousness rambles, the emotional check‑ins. It’s grounding to look back and see how thoughts shift and soften over time.

    Bullet Journal

    My planning sanctuary. It’s where I map out tasks, hopes, and goals month by month, and hold myself gently accountable. And yes, it’s a great excuse to use my fun stationery.

    Sketchbook

    A square-format favourite for impulsive doodles, quick experiments, and trying out ideas I stumble across online. It’s low‑pressure, high‑play.

    Side Quest Notebook

    This one lives in my purse and comes with me to meetings with collaborators for my creative workshop business. It’s perfect for capturing ideas, scribbling notes, and brainstorming new workshop concepts in my fast and scribbly handwriting.

    Not Pictured: My Junk Journals

    I also keep a little hand‑stitched junk journal on the go, where I create playful spreads using bits and pieces collected from restaurants, events and the occasional irresistible piece of junk mail.

    Maybe you have a journal ecosystem too. I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

    And if you’d like to chat about collaborating or joining one of my creative workshops, please reach out. I’ve got just the right journal ready for jotting down our ideas.

  • Get Organized for Fall: Intro to Bullet Journaling Workshop

    Get Organized for Fall: Intro to Bullet Journaling Workshop

    Summer’s still here—but fall is just around the corner. As the seasons begin to shift and routines start to pick up again, it’s the perfect time to reset, refocus, and get organized. And what better way to do that than with a little creativity and self-care?

    Join us for a cozy, hands-on Intro to Bullet Journaling workshop where you’ll learn how to turn a blank notebook into your new favourite tool for staying on track, expressing yourself, and making space for what matters most.

    Why Bullet Journaling?

    Bullet journaling is more than just a planner—it’s a powerful tool for:

    • Boosting productivity without the overwhelm
    • Reducing stress through mindfulness and reflection
    • Tracking habits and building routines that stick
    • Setting goals and actually following through
    • Tapping into creativity, even if you don’t consider yourself artistic

    It’s flexible, fun, and totally customizable—perfect for anyone looking to feel more grounded and intentional heading into a new season.

    What You’ll Learn:

    • The core principles of bullet journaling and how it works
    • How to set up your first journal with an index and key
    • Creative layout ideas for monthly spreads, habit trackers, and more

    Whether you’re brand new to journaling or just looking for a fresh start, this workshop is designed to be fun, relaxing, and totally beginner-friendly.

    What’s Included:

    • A beautiful dot journal and Micron pen to take home
    • Shared materials – markers, highlighters, washi tape & stencils
    • Guided exercises and layout inspiration
    • A cozy, welcoming space to get creative

    Who It’s For:

    • Anyone curious about bullet journaling
    • People looking to feel more organized and intentional
    • Creative minds looking for a new outlet

    You’ll leave with a journal you’ve started yourself—and loads of inspiration to keep going.

    Register!

  • A Dream Week of Art Journaling at Haliburton School of Art + Design

    A Dream Week of Art Journaling at Haliburton School of Art + Design

    Last week, I gave myself the gift of time: five full days immersed in creative exploration at the Haliburton School of Art + Design, learning the art of intuitive journaling with the incredible artist and educator Melanie Matthews. It truly felt like a dream holiday—eight hours a day of making, experimenting, and reconnecting with my creative self.

    Melanie’s approach to art journaling was both liberating and grounding. She encouraged us to let go of perfection, trust our instincts, and embrace the unexpected. Each day was rich with in-depth instruction, helping us better understand materials, techniques, and the fundamentals of composition.

    Throughout the week, I kept returning to the Art-Making Manifesto by @helenwellsart, which Melanie introduced to us early on. Its principles became a guiding light in my process and eventually found their way into my final journal pages.

    Learning New Perspectives

    One of the most powerful parts of the experience was witnessing how differently each student approached the same materials. Some pages were bold and expressive, others soft and meditative. It was a beautiful reminder that creativity is deeply personal—and that stepping outside our comfort zones is where growth happens.

    Being a student again, especially in such a supportive and experimental environment, was incredibly recharging. It reminded me how essential it is to keep learning—not just to teach or produce, but to wander, to play, and to stay curious.

    A Creative Recharge

    Spending a week making art felt like an act of radical self-care. In a world that often prioritizes productivity over presence, giving myself permission to slow down and create without an agenda was transformative. It reaffirmed why I believe so deeply in the power of workshops and creative retreats.

    If you’ve ever dreamed of spending your days surrounded by paint, paper, and possibility, I can’t recommend a week at HSAD enough. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning, there’s something truly magical about dedicating time to your creative voice.

    Ready for Your Own Creative Recharge?

    Are you looking to reignite your creativity? Join me at an upcoming workshop!