This article describes an art-based inquiry that explored two contemplative strategies--the conceptual strategy and the awareness strategy--through observation of art images and processes of creation, conceptual understanding, assessment, and the inner movements of self-awareness. Art media and directives were used to subjectively test key elements of understanding as they related to personal reflection. The creative process served to awaken the contemplative qualities under review, and provided a means for extending the frame of art therapy as a contemplative practice.