Doodling and Art: The Subconscious Communication of the Mind

Abstract

Doodle emanates from a subjective thought; it is a means of self-expression, a connotation that springs up from the heart. It is an alliance between the mind and the body. Doodling is executed consciously or unconsciously, it either originates from a negative pattern such as anxiety, self-esteem, bereavement, fears, emotional trauma and agony. This instigates a depiction expressed from an individual's emotions and the state of mind, as well as their thinking. The act of doodling reveals thought. Communication abounds in the mind, which is inherent and subjective. It is one’s communication with the soul, as a way to ease the mind of accumulated thoughts and cognitive clutter, seeking a means to resolve them through counselling. Psychologically, doodling speaks the mind of a learner as a psychological conscience, leading to an awareness of the ideal and evoking the client-centred theory of John Eliot, which allows a client to explore subjective thought. If we could make a mark that in itself expressed anger or joy, then an abstract set of marks should be able to convey emotions just like the notes in music. Doodling is indeed considered a form of Art which can also be interpreted from a Psychological perspective. Both doodling and art can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding activities, each with its own benefits. They can help to develop creativity, boost self-esteem, and provide a way to communicate ideas, solutions or feelings. The paper explores doodling as an expressive medium through which the mind externalises emotions, memories and cognitive processes that may not be easily articulated through language.