Today’s Date as a Mark-Making Exercise

This exercise starts with a simple number prompt, using the date as inspiration, and evolves into a playful exploration of shapes, lines, and colours. It’s a great way to ground yourself in the present moment while tapping into your creativity.

Gather Materials:

• An artist’s journal, unlined notebook, or blank sheet of paper
• A pencil set
• Pencil crayons
• A timer

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Today’s Exercise: Number Prompt and Mark-Making

Step 1: Begin with the Date

1. Write today’s date as large numbers on the page (e.g., “15” for the 15th).

Step 2: Transform the Numbers

1. Turn the page sideways or upside down to view the numbers from a fresh perspective.
2. Begin to see the numbers not as symbols but as shapes and marks.

Step 3: Mark-Making Exploration

1. Set a timer for 5 minutes.
2. Respond to the numbers on the page by:
   • Extending lines outward from their edges.
   • Breaking some lines into dots or dashes.
   • Adding spirals, squares, circles, or other shapes.
   • Colouring in parts of the numbers or shapes you create.
   • Overlaying intersecting lines to build complexity.
   • Experimenting with light and heavy pencil pressure.

Reflections on the Exercise

This exercise starts with something as simple as a number but transforms it into a unique, abstract composition. For me, it became a meditative process. Turning the paper was helpful to help me no longer see numbers. As I responded with lines and colours, they turned into something fluid and playful.

When I added intersecting lines and coloured shapes, the page felt alive with energy. Starting with a number prompt helped me feel connected to the day, while the act of mark-making allowed me to let go of overthinking and just create.

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Try using a number prompt again tomorrow or choose a meaningful number, like a birthday. It’s amazing how something so simple can inspire endless creative possibilities!