The Joy of Doodle Art
The art of the unplanned
I am always doodling in the margins and on anything that is around me. On the phone, when I was in class, in meetings. I am engaged but there is a constant need to visually represent what I am feeling all the time. Spending a moment my living space and you will soon find a little sketch of a rabbit with rocket shoes here and a phone number framed by a bush of roses there. I was concerned this compulsion was a coping mechanism for some horrific hidden trauma. Until one day I came across a video of a skinny dude riding New York Subways and drawing intently on walls. Keith Haring opened my eyes to the world of the art of the unplanned and my little note margin designs became more.
A Brief History of Doodle Art
Doodle art might seem like a modern phenomenon but it has deep roots in human creativity. The practice of drawing simple, repetitive designs has been around for centuries. From ancient cave drawings to the intricate patterns of religious art, doodling has always been a way for people to express themselves.
But, it wasn't until the 20th century that doodle art began to gain notice as a legit art form. One of the pioneers of this movement was the legendary Keith Haring.
Haring, known for his bold, graffiti-inspired lines and vibrant characters, transformed what many considered mere doodles into powerful statements of art. His work on subway walls in New York City brought doodle art to the public eye and helped to break down the barriers between "high" and "low" art.
“Art should be something that liberates your soul, provokes the imagination, and encourages people to go further.” His approach to art as something accessible and universal sums up doodle art well and inspires me to put pen to paper.
The Philosophy Behind Doodling
Doodling is about freedom and spontaneity. Doodling works when it is unplanned and unexpected. It's a form of visual journaling—a way to capture thoughts, emotions, and ideas in real time, there is a place between conscious intention and scribbling, a zone or flow state where a composition has balance and meaning without contrivance, ego, and social conditioning. In those moments of pure calm, a doddle artist finds creativity without judgment or expectation.
The Psychology of Doodling
I find doodling amazing for my concentration. When I doodle I retain information better and stay focused during tasks that might otherwise make my mind drift. The act of doodling provides a mental anchor while allowing for creative expression.
Doodling is also a way to tap into the subconscious. The shapes and patterns that emerge on the page can reveal hidden thoughts and feelings, making doodling a valuable tool for self-discovery and expression.
Often looking back over doodles I have made during a meeting I learn more about the topic, and remember key emotional triggers about a subject which connect me to the speaker beyond the words being said and more to the thoughts and feelings that are trying to be expressed.
Key Figures in Doodle Art
While Keith Haring is perhaps the most famous name associated with doodle art, I also found myself fascinated with Jean-Michel Basquiat. He filled his doodle-like figures with true emotion and social commentary, creating impactful art that still speaks loudly today.
In the contemporary art scene, artists like Jon Burgerman have brought doodle art into the mainstream, using it in everything from murals to commercial design. Burgerman's bight playful and random as style has made him a favourite among both art lovers and brands looking for something fresh and different.
Why Doodle Art Matters
Doodle art isn't just about pretty random patterns or goofy characters—it's about feeling the creative process and getting out of the way of the results. It's about relaxing the constraints and finding flow from chaos and a calm creative energy between thinking and making.
In a world that often demands perfection and precision, doodle art is a reminder that creativity is messy, imperfect, and massively human. It's a cheers to the every day, a reminder that everything has form and a perspective to enjoy.
Embrace it
I hope people embrace it. Pick up a pen, let your mind wander, and see where your creativity goes. And if you're looking for unique, original art that captures the spirit of doodling, be sure to check out my online store. www.davidbayerdesigns.com
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