i agree with what everyone has said - i dont art journal strictly but that's a phrase that everyone defines differently - i add in a mask or blend something every now and then and add doodley stuff, texture to a block or watercolour paint to break out of the linear look (i still want my trip albums to look cohesive so sticking pockety and linear for the most part - that's the problem with scrapping the same trip for so many years...) Kayla's page is a good example of how just a layer mask and blend can really give an insta-AJ look!
Sorry to poke my nose in but you could always try my Template Challenge HERE in the forum ... template is very artsy, lots of layers : masks, paint, gesso, elements, text path etc ... plus it's FREE - this is what the template looks like Like @AnneofAlamo I'm a firm believer that any kit can be used to do your own style of art journaling - there are some amazing layouts in this thread and our amazing TLP gallery =) Because of everything included on the template, it is Personal Use Only. Anybody fancy joining us?