Remarkable Bird

Drawing Chairs

2011-04-27T14:54:00.001-07:00

Once again I find myself doing what is quite possibly the wrong thing to be doing. But it's drawing just the same. And surprisingly I do have a plan for my antique looking chairs

Still not sure how I want my chairs to be drawn. That's the hard part (and that's part of what I'm working on) is my new "look" or way of approaching a subject or drawing. How finished do I want a pencil sketch to be or how incomplete? Thick lines or shading or lots and lots of white? I'm guessing as I'm working this all out that it's going to be a few months or so to develop a style I love and that is all my own. Something I should have done years ago in art school but just pushed through my work hoping it would evolve on it's own. I have an idea of what I would like but I'm open to what it will become.

Olympic Logo

2011-04-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

We all know what a disgrace the London 2012 logo is. It was such a disappointment from a mecca of great design. So I don't think I need to go into the ends and outs of the bad choice London has made other than I will find it hard to believe anyone will be eager to purchase logo merchandise. I'm sure it will be the lowest sales in Olympic history.

That being said, I did come across a logo that I can't believe wasn't used but has been saved for the Great Britain Team. Wow do I love it in so many ways. Even if they had taken just a concept from this logo, the official logo for the 2012 Olympics would have been a vast improvement.

I also stumbled across other logos that would have been a refreshing change for the logo that was selected.

I was even pleasantly surprised with the Rio logo for 2016. A logo with motion makes so much more sense for a huge sporting event then a jagged stale logo. Even the colors are used much more effectively.
But the Rio logo still reminds me of the Scripps logo here in San Diego.
I love logos and the work and thought process that goes into each one regardless of how bad they might be. They all tell a story in simple lines and color. We either love them or hate them and they either work or don't work.

Get Back To Work

2011-04-20T10:32:00.001-07:00

Lately I've had a hard time feeling the energy to draw. Finding the time is hard enough, but when I have the few precious moments I need I find myself doing something uncreative. Trying to get back into the mood of creating can be hard at times. I don't have the problem of ideas, it's the motivation I lack.

Surprisingly I found a tweet that seemed to do the trick. Someone had tweeted : The 12 Crazy But True Secrets to Artistic Financial Success. Must-read......
then when you clicked on the link this is all you got
It cracked me up, but also made me realize I needed that stern no nonsense answer. There is no secret to success as an artist. I just need to get back to work!

So off to make my self feel a bit more artistic no matter what my mood I did some 10 second sketches..... not anything great and not what I really needed to be doing, but it was a start.
I need to get back to work and get some art done, I am bursting with ideas and how I want to tackle a new look that is part fashion illustration, part graphic design, and part children illustration. Not sure how it's going to look or turn out. But in my mind it's going to be great!

O.M.D.

2011-04-04T20:53:00.000-07:00

Music is something so special to artists. It feeds our creative soul as we pour over ideas, spin creativity in our heads and pour out our hearts through our hands. Music carries us through the day and cradles us at night. It's there when no one else is and is something we enjoy sharing with others as much as we do our own talents.I finally got to live out a teenage dream, recently when O.M.D. made a return visit to San Diego after not doing any concerts in the U.S. for over 20 years. I use to lay in bed at night playing "The Best of O.M.D." as I fell asleep and wake to the tape still playing over and over again on my stereo. At times I would wake crying in my sleep to "Joan of Arc" or "Maid of Orleans". Each song was so special to me in it's own way. I know all the words to "Secret", "Locomotion", and "Dreaming" that I would write out the lyrics in my notebook at school when I was suppose to be taking lecture notes. I was madly in love with Paul and Andy at the same time and would go into my brothers room and lay on his bed staring at the poster he had of them on his wall for hours. I had a lot to thank my brother for, he introduced the band to me with "Tesla Girls" and I was hooked.

Orchestral Manoeuvers In the Dark is my forever favorite. I'm in love with their sound all over again with their new album "History of Modern" There isn't a song that I don't just love, old or new. It's full of great emotion, fun, and love.
And getting to see them perform live only 12 feet from me was heart stopping! Okay I know it's crazy silly of me to have a band crush but I still do after all these years. They played every hit song they've ever done (except Secret) and even some great tracks off their new album. It was the funnest night of my life and I can't thank Donald enough for taking me. I felt young and yet so mature and energized. It was worth the long wait. Andy is still smoking hot and Paul still has that amazing smile that makes you melt and their voices haven't changed, everything was perfect! I left the concert dripping in sweat from rocking out so hard for 2 hours. I am so grateful that Andy and Paul have continued making unbelievable music that still inspires me and invokes such wonderful emotion.

The Pros & Cons of Working From Home

2011-03-21T14:39:00.000-07:00

Workspace in London before Kids.

Lately I have been dealing with a lot of cons when it comes to working from home and it's starting to bring my down. So I thought a list of pros and cons might be in order to make sure and set myself straight on my choice. Being a mother of 2 small children, a very gregarious 4 year old little girl, and a super cuddly 9 month old boy, it's very difficult to find those very valuable free moments to get any art accomplished. I find myself looking longingly at my unoccupied art desk as I try to meet my family's daily demands. I worked many years in a professional capacity and it was extremely hard to make the switch from Professional at a job to Professional at home with kids. For years I made more than my husband, I paid all the bills or a large portion of them. It's hard sometimes to remember why I made the switch and when will I see the reward in my choice in my art and in my family.

Making the choice to work from home with or with out kids is a very difficult choice. There is a lot to consider, a lot of sacrifices to be made, and a lot to adjust to. This isn't a choice anyone should make lightly.

Here are MY pros and cons

Pro: I don't have to deal with traffic coming or going from work everyday. None of this I'm running late and a scramble to get the kids off to daycare.
Con: There is no down time, unwinding time, or just listen to what ever I want time.

Pro: Don't have to deal with a boss who leaves at noon but still calls you while they are relaxing by their pool at 5:00 PM to have you run some report they will never look at in order to keep you from leaving at a decent time.
Con: Nothing con about not having a boss.

Pro: Don't have to deal with other employees that drive you crazy. You know the ones I'm referring to. All their petty ways and lame excuses are no longer an issue.
Con: There is a huge lack of opportunity to socialize when working from home. Most everyone I know still goes to a job everyday and they send their kids to daycare. Being at home with kids is very lonely because no one does it any more these days. There are very few stay at home adults to make friends with and that means you don't get many choices on who you get to communicate with. And let me just say that as amazing a vocabulary my 4 year old daughter has, it's still not what I would call stimulating conversation. It makes for a very lonely day.

Pro: I don't have to work on a really stupid project that my boss thinks is super great.
Con: Family and friends seem to think I should get giddy about doing a logo, art, or web work for them. And that pay should be minimal at best...after all they feel I should be grateful for the work. I'd really rather be struck by lightning.

Pro: I get to create what I want to create
Con: No guarantee that I will make any money from long hours of work. I can create image after image and none may every sell. My first 4 pieces I put up for sale after choosing to stay at home never sold.

Pro: Don't have to deal with clients that the "boss" brings in and do some really lame campaign that will ultimately kill your portfolio.
Con: Everyone and their dog asks you to do art for them for free or for some ridiculously low amount. They will gladly pay you what amounts to pennies an hour while they still demand $60 or more an hour for their time.

Pro: I get a lot of "wow" when I say I stay at home with my kids and that I also sell my art professionally. I also get a lot of "how do you find the time". Not sure this is really a "Pro" as I'm not sure what people are really thinking.
Con: Staying at home trying to make it as a respectable artist with two kids is very hard to do and there is little or no time in which to do it. It means late nights, sneaking in time here and there, and wishing on a star that I didn't need sleep at all.

Pro: I get a lot of respect from the older generations on my choice to stay home with my kids. They seem to understand the value of raising your own kids and taking on the biggest responsibility there is, the life, and upbringing of another.
Con: There is no respect for the fact that I do in fact have a job outside of raising my kids. At adult social gatherings with peers I am looked down upon for choosing to stay at home with my kids instead of perusing my career.

Pro: I have the opportunity to make way more than most of my traditional go to work art friends who are currently struggling to keep their crap jobs in this really crap economy.
Con: I don't know when my next piece of art will sell, I don't know how much money I will make this week, this month.

Pro: I'm not constantly bombarded with meetings or to do lists from bosses that keep me from getting my work done
Con: There are plenty of distractions and interruptions from neighbors, friends, family that don't seem to get that your trying to get a job done. It's the reality that they just don't seem to understand that YES I DO HAVE A JOB.

Pro: Don't have to deal with a client that loves your work, but then asks you to do something completely not like what you've been doing only to say in the end that they don't like it.
Con: EVERYONE is a critic. I thought dealing with the critiques in art school were bad, at least my peers and teachers knew what they were talking about. Listening to family and friends critique my work is painful even when they are being nice they still don't know what they are talking about.

Pro: I get to raise well adjusted, kind, polite, loving children. I LOVE LOVE LOVE how much everyone adores my two kids. I get a constant stream of complements where ever I go from strangers, family and friends.
Con: I get no credit in the fact that my kids are amazing. Can't recall the last time someone outside of my husband that is, said you are an amazing mom, or your kids take after you, or look like you.

In the end, my day is spent trying to make my kids the best they can be, I do all the house work, all the cooking, but (and that BUT is the size of Hyde Park) I get all the kisses, all the hugs, all the I love you's and all the thank you's. My kids are my constant review of how good a job a do at being a mom.

I am still struggling with the time I so desperately desire to get some art accomplished. It means for a very full schedule everyday. I don't watch TV, I don't read books (unless it's to my kids), I get updates on the world around me through carefully picked sources on Twitter, and socialization is almost non existent because I need to get art done during any free time I have.

So why did I choose to stay home? I wanted to raise my kids, not some stranger, I wanted to produce art I wanted to make that I felt passionate about not what some stream of clients think they want. I wanted to watch my kids grow and not hear about it from day care. I wanted people to choose my art, not force me to create art for them.

Current workspace in San Diego with kids.

1 very supportive husband, 2 kids, 4 blogs, 2 Etsy shops, 1 house, 1 yard, and a super exciting giant project underway. I'm very glad with my choice.

Look What I Found

2011-03-08T14:30:00.001-08:00

Amazing how often we look to the past when working on the future. Was going through my inspiration drawer yesterday looking for images that would help inspire my next group of drawings and I found the above magazine clipping. My husband and I have moved around quite a bit, 11 times in 11 years I don't have the luxury of holding on to every magazine, catalog, and other bit of fun inspiration that might pass through my door. So I have found a way of dealing with not getting to keep it all. When I get a magazine or catalog and I fall in love with an image, typography, color scheme, or words, I just simply rip it out and put it in my "inspiration drawer". Then when I am in the need for images I don't just have to rely on Google to come up with something unique, I have my own little compilation of what I love to work with. Obviously I've been doing this for well over 15 years as the above image and article came out just before John Galliano's first collection for Givenchy. I'm still deeply saddened by the fall of someone I've been enjoying and been inspired by for years. I can't image who will replace Galliano, I have hope that someone amazing is sitting in Central Saint Martins right now that will blow us all away all over again. But for now I will move forward with my own ideas and hopefully find my magic and create unique images to inspire others.

The Art of Saying Thank You

2011-03-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

I am just finishing up my thank you cards from my daughters 4th birthday party and it got me thinking of all the times I've made my own thank you's over the years. I've always thought what a better way to say "Thank You" then by sending a piece of my art all packaged up neatly as a Thank You card. I've been making thank you cards since I was able to write out the words on my own, which as I am guessing was about 6 years of age. But amazingly so many have forgotten over the years that a thank you is so important. It's more that just a shout out on twitter or facebook. Taking the time to write a meaningful card to express our gratitude for what someone has given us, or done for us, or in my case as an artist, buying a piece of my art.

Below is a small tag that I like to attach to a ribbon around each piece of art when I send them out to their new owners. I also include a handwritten not on similar stationery. I am so grateful for every sale.
Having kids has been another one of those big Thank You times in my life. It's always amazing to me the generosity of others when you announce you are pregnant or that your bundle of joy has been born. I've looked at it as a time to be creative in my thank you's back to all those who have taken the time to give so much to me.

Below are two Thank You cards I have given after having my daughter.

If you can or if you can get your kids involved, make your own thank you cards. They will be more treasured than a store bought card. And remember when thanking someone, it's never ever too late to say "Thank You!", always address the person personally, thank them for the gift by naming the gift and expressing the delight in which it is now being used. If you were given the gift in person let them know how special the time was seeing them (time is a gift too!).

The art of Shades

2011-02-28T19:59:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of framing your eyes. You see art, ideas, and beauty every day through them, why not frame them up nicely so every thing is always in a frame. And I am never one to pull back and go cheep when good design and fashion are on the line. Last weekend my husband surprised me with a trip to the mall to pick out a new pair of sunglasses for the year. I was super excited, but in the end he was the one that found the best pair for me. I'm very fortunate that my husband not only enjoys great design and fashion, but also shopping!

I got my first pair of Fendi sunglasses and I have received nothing but compliments on them. Not only do they look super chic but they also do the job they were intended for and that is great design at work!
I've also included a few more of my more choice sunglasses over the last couple of years. I really love my Tom Ford's too. they are slim and delicate with a light tint for the gray but bright days when a bit of tint is all you need and I get to look sophisticated too!

A bit more on the chunky side but an amazingly gorgeous! These Gucci glasses will always be a treasure! Also a pair that my husband picked out for me. They come with a matching silky to keep them clean and the floral print has a story!
In 1966, Rodolfo Gucci, Guido Gucci's son, enlisted the help of refined artist Accornero to help him create a silk scarf especially for Hollywood mega-star Grace Patricia Kelly, a silk floral scarf that went on to become the most sought after accessory of the 1960s.
And finally my Chanel glasses. A wonderful white frame to brighten up those gray days. the tint is perfect for the not so sunny but you still need some thing to shade your eyes from squinting. I wore these all over London for 10 months and with all things of great design they still look brand new and gorgeous on!

A Book Blog!

2011-02-25T10:18:00.000-08:00

I have so many books I want so badly to share that I thought that making a seperate book blog would be the best way to share all my wonderful treasures sitting on my shelves. I have put a link in the upper left corner of this blog for easy access between my two blogs. This is a unique book review blog as it will showcase unusual books on illustration, art, design, fashion, travel, and children's books. These won't be the easy to find books that you would see in Barnes and Nobel or Boarders. I will do my best to give a link to the location in which I purchased the books or you can always check amazon. I am always on the look out for special books so if you know of any please share!

2010 Favorites

2011-02-10T14:03:00.001-08:00

Reflection back on 2010 I thought it would be fun to share my favorite art, fashion, and hand made gifts we received or purchased.

Starting off my favorites is a gift of fashion from my husband on mothers day. I was due to have my son in less than a month and was dreading having to lug around a diaper bag again. Even with a Petunia Pickle Bottom bag stored away from when my daughter was a baby wasn't enough to get me excited about looking so unfashionable. My husband saved me from mommy fashion and got me this wonderful Burberry tote! It holds everything I need and more, it wipes clean in seconds and I get loads of complements everywhere I go. And the best part is I still feel fashionable!

One of my favorites that Donald and I gave to our family and each other was Emma and Ewan's first year together. It's a compilation of images that I took through out 2010 of our two loves. It's a hard bound book that I made through My Publisher. We are already looking forward to making more of these books from trips we have taken a past years of images we would love to have all bound up in a book.

Having a new baby always brings out the creative in others. And having Ewan was no exception. My dear friend Holly made a wonderful cross stitch of Ewan and had it framed for his room. Another great friend of mine, Irene, purchased the super cute piggy bank and had it hand painted with airplanes, clouds and Ewan's name.
A million years ago I was a nanny to 4 children when I was starting collage. Mary Jude, the lady I nannied for was brilliant with making quilts and created this super cute cowboy quilt for Ewan which I love to bits!
In keeping with the cowboy theme my great friend Julie from Let Her Be Little clothing company made Ewan his first jean jacket with a cowboy theme!
I can never pass up unusually illustrated books and have been constantly on the lookout for Boy books to start Ewan's book collection. I fell in love with this book and it's just as cute inside with an amazing message for any child you read it to.

Emma Turned 3 at the beginning of 2010 and she got her first big girl bed. So I was off trying to find the cutest comforter cover I could. Not an easy task. But finally at the Land of Nod, thanks to my good friend Wendy's suggestion, I found this adorable comforter cover that has a look of hand made and girl charm.

Emma loves how fancy her big girl bed is and this is essential when making that transition from crib to bed.
Another great find in the land of Books is Birdie's Big Girl Shoes. The illustrations are to die for and also has a super sweet message for all our big girls who love mommy's shoes!

My Dad is amazing when it comes to making things out of wood. Emma had this tiny little picnic table from Target that didn't last a year and only seated two kids. I was sad but asked my dad if he could take a look at it and make something like it only bigger to fit at least 4 to 6 kids and hold up a bit better in the weather. He out did himself! Emma loves her new picnic table and I can't wait to have both my kids and their friends sitting around it on play dates!
Finally I would like to add just a few more books of art and fashion

A life of Style was a book I just couldn't pass up at Anthropologie. It's gorgeously illustrated and is an amazing read! A must for all fashion minded girls!
My last two books were gifts from my friend Holly. She knows of my love for British Fashion. This is a fun book with a great overview of the many different fashion houses in the UK.
And Holly also knows my love of museums and wanting to go back to London. This book will be very handy for my next trip or move to London!

The Importance of Protection.

2011-02-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

With the web comes the ability to share and show things you have created, pictures you have taken, words you have written, ideas unfolding. And as much as we all love to share just like we did in kindergarten there is always those out there that ruin it for the rest of us. Those who steal, take with out asking, ignore copyright, have no respect for others creations, ideas, pictures or words.

Usually this happens with out us artist ever knowing until we stumble upon this miss use of our work by accident, or a good friend brings it to our attention that someone is using something of ours with out permission. So we protect ourselves with no right clicking to view an image or copy information. We water mark our images and art. We openly discuss intellectual property with friends, family, anyone who will listen to understand that what we create as artist belongs to us the artist. But sadly it still happens.....

.....It happened to me at Christmas this year.....by a relative

I was instantly stuck in an incredibly difficult situation. After years of expressing my anger over fellow students stealing my ideas in art school and the importance of respecting artist. The ugliness was now being forced on me in my living room Christmas morning. I had to bite my tongue. I never thought in a million years that my photography would be stolen from my blog and given as a gift right in front of me! I was angry and hurt.

I know that my anger and hurt must have been written all over my face because the item in question was not mentioned again and put away. It's now over a month later and no one has mentioned the item to me, no one has apologized or asked about my feelings. As an artist, my feelings are hugely important. So to have them ignored is just as hurtful as the crime of stealing my photography. I've turned what has happened over and over again in my mind trying to decide what to do from here. How do I protect my art and photography not just from strangers, but from close family and friends.

I want to warn others of this. I don't want anyone else to get caught off guard by such an unfortunate situation and extremely awkward moment. So I would recommend a few must do's for fellow artists in any field.

1.Of course the obvious is necessary, ALWAYS copyright your work! Even if you are just sharing with a close friend or family member, if you don't want others to use your art, words or photography, make it clear up front.

2.Leave no room for interpretation. Such as, "The photography, art, and words on this blog are copyright Suzanne Litzenberg and may not be used or duplicated in any form except by Suzanne Litzenberg". May seem a bit steep but it will go a long way in avoiding confusion, anger or hurt by lack of good judgment of others. It's very easy to wrongfully trust others to respect your art, photography, and writing.

3. If need be water mark each image! This will help further your cause in making others aware when trying to rip your images off the Internet.

4. Continue to educate your friends and family what copyright means and what intellectual property is.

Christmas 2010

2011-02-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

2010 was a hard year on me creatively. I had hundreds of burning ideas in my head and heart but the time and energy was lost in my pregnancy and taking care of my new baby and gregarious 3 year old. So most of my art was limited to what I had to do personaly....Like Christmas cards.

Ewan made his first appeance in my art on my 2010 Christmas card. I used the theme of the Nutcracker for the art since Emma is in ballet and Ewan would make the perfect toy soldier.
I feel really strongly about letter writing and card sending. If your going to buy a card and send it out then by all means send some form of communication with it. Seeing how this may be the only letter you send for the year make a bit of effort and don't just sign your name. A nice letter, hand written note and a picture of your family / kids are a nice touch too!I love sending a cute picture of the kids. Most of my friends and relatives live so far away that this is the only way they will get to see my kids despite my blogging efforts to keep family and friends informed most just wait for the annual Christmas card, letter and picture. This years picture was taken by me one cold rainy morning in front of our Christmas tree.

This year was also my first time drawing a Santa since I was about 10 years old. I wanted him to be cute round and happy and be smiling up at Emma and Ewan Christmas morning with a cheery note thanking them for the wonderful treats they had left the night before. I'm thinking I'm going to make cute stationery out of my new Santa for next years Etsy Remarkable Bird store Christmas sales!

Ewan's Birth Announcement

2011-02-09T13:37:00.000-08:00

I Finally have a free moment to share a bit on this blog that I have neglected for much longer than I would have wanted.
Just like I made Emma's birth announcements when she was born I did the same for Ewan. I love birds especially blue ones and I love owls too so I combined the two for Ewan's birth announcements. Thought they were still sweet enough for a baby and boy enough for Ewan.

I designed the whole thing and took Ewan's picture for it too and printed it all out and cut it all out by hand only to realize that I was going to print on the back as well as the front. Ugh! Okay, I'm an artist I can fix this with a wrap around!
It's so funny how major mistakes can turn out to be great design successes if you are open to working around the problem. The wrap around became one of my favorite elements of the piece and I still had room to add the darling quote "Every Great Man Was First A Boy"

I also like how when you opened the announcement it peaked out at you right way to hoot "look whooo is here!"
I had to add a sticker closure...all in the name of good design and packaging! I think even simple little letters should be gifts themselves!
I used a very clean basic grid design so that the focus would be on Ewan's sweet face. Here's the stack of 100 announcements ready for stuffing into envelopes.

iMac

2010-11-09T09:58:00.000-08:00

I finally feel like a real artist with a real computer to work from. I can't believe how magical it is to have such a wonderful computer to work from.

Totally forgot to mention that at the beginning of August I got the new iMac! Got the best of the best. My husband said if we are going to get you a Mac then we are going all out with the biggest screen, memory and so on. It came with the new magic mouse and touch pad! I am loving it, but with my two little loves at home with me all day I am not spending near enough time on it. I have tons to write and draw and create. But I know it will all come in time. Loving every spare moment I get to use it! It Donald and I have been talking about getting an iMac for a long time and we finally decided to take the plunge and get one. Thanks to the huge generosity of my dad and early birthday money from Donald's parents we were able to put in the rest and get the best of the best.

Our little laptop finally gave out about a month before Ewan was born, but since I was so exhausted I didn't think replacing the computer was tops on our list. So of course I started selling prints and need a computer badly so Donald let me use one of his for printing and order purposes. But I still didn't want to spend the money on a new computer till I was up to doing anything with it.

Donald kept saying we would order the iMac in late August early September because the new iMac was coming out with magic mouse and touch pad. And that the computer would be way better then the old iMacs. So I was shocked as shocked could be when we got a delivery on August 6. Donald had said he had ordered something for our sever so I just figured that this giant box now sitting in our living room was something to do with our Windows Home Server. I waited hours before I even bothered calling Donald at work to let him know his item had arrived. And that's when he told me what was in the box! It was the New iMac I couldn't think straight. I begged him to come home right away and set it up for me......and he did!!

I've waited forever for such a wonderful computer and I can't wait to see the magic I will make with it. Best surprise ever Donald!!

My little inspirations for new art

2010-10-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to new art and as always my little loves are providing loads of inspiration...Can't wait to have time to draw.

What I've Been Doing

2010-08-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

My new baby boy arrived on June 7th..... I am finding the joy and the craziness of having two little loves around me all day. So little time for art, but I am juggling my time and as soon as I get Ewan's birth announcements made I will be back at it with some new art.
I took these photos yesterday in my bedroom trying to get some good shots for a birth announcement picture. I have a few more that I just love and I am sure that one will land the lucky spot of getting shipping to friends and family around the world. I also took some with my beautiful 3 year old Emma so that she can send her own announcements letting the world know she is now a big sister.

Baby Shower

2010-08-24T13:30:00.001-07:00

Hosted a baby shower for my sister in law last weekend and got a chance to do some baby art. I went looking all over for some cute decorations, but couldn't find anything and having a new baby myself was really pressed for time. So I decided to go with an idea that I would have loved for my daughters baby shower and made it work....BABY BLOCKS all themed around the baby's initials.

I started first with the art, since she is having a boy I tried to stick with more boy like images. I sketched out my art, dropped it into Adobe Illustrator and then printed out the art as needed for each of the decorations.
I got most of my supplies from the Paper Source and Michaels. I found square boxes and printed out my art and spray mounted it onto the boxes

I also made tags for the favors which were little boxes of homemade cookies.

I made small and large blocks and put them all over the house. And I used the table tents from the Paper Source to spray mount sweet poems about baby boys as added decorations.

For prizes for the games I used the purse boxes from the Paper source and once again mounted on my art before tucking in gift cards to Starbucks.
I also made a banner with ribbon and paper as well as made tissue paper balls thanks to the help of my good friend Holly.
All in all for my first time hosting a baby shower and my very limited time, the decorations came out great! I've been told that my sister in law took home most of the decorations and now has them in the baby's room....That to me is a success!

Love and Joy

2009-10-01T15:22:00.001-07:00

When I was really little (about 4) my big brother was in the elementary school choir and at Christmas time he came home singing the Wassail Song. I loved it so much that he taught it to me. When I went to watch his performance I sang right along from my seat! It is a wonderful memory, so it wasn't hard to decided what my two young carolers should be singing.

Something new for this holiday season, with the love children have for singing, dogs and snow! May love and joy come to you!

New Look

2009-09-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

Say "Hello" to the start of my new identity.
Over the last couple of days I have been working on creating a new "look" for my business. I have had a nagging voice in the back of my head that keeps saying "that as much as you like your logo, business cards, and identity. It just doesn't show what you actually do!" I think people would be surprised if handed one of my business cards and then to go view my art and discover it looks nothing like the art I have on my cards. My logo I love and will keep, but I am going to put it aside for now and do a more illustrated version of my bird, and add my little Emma. I think that it will portray more of what I am currently doing and be a much more relaxed and enjoyable card then the polished and proper identity I have been using the last year and a half. After I finished the art, I thought it was quite cute so I posted it as a print on my etsy shop.

Free Shipping

2009-09-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

To help make my birthday weekend just that much sweeter, I have decided to share my joy and offer free standard shipping on any item in my shop going any where around the globe. It's a good time to do a bit of fall shopping and dare I say Christmas shopping with no shipping charges for a few days only.

Shopping For Baby

2009-09-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

I am so excited. My "Finding Winter Cardinal" was featured in "Shopping For Baby" a magazine out of Australia!

I had been contacted by the magazine last December asking if they could use my art, they didn't know if it would make it into the magazine but would send me a copy if it did. I have had a large number of my summer (their winter time) sales come out of Australia and with the arrival of my magazine I now know why. I am also currently in a childrens boutique in Australia too. Let's just say "I Heart Australia!" Thank you so much for the wonderful patronage!

Up Coming Exhibit

2009-09-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

That's right, entered just in time to send two of my pieces off to an Art Exhibit. Got the news via e-mail this morning that the Art Institute would like to exhibit for the next 4 months in their gallery my new Spring Collection and Rainy Day Mate! Will be dropping them off this Saturday morning all framed and ready to hang.
The reception is on Thursday September 10th from 5-7 if you would like to see the images in person.

Spring Collection

2009-08-31T14:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know it's a bit late for this, but it's a new piece!!! Totally inspired by my little Emma and her love of ladybugs, butterflies, bees, flowers, her wheelbarrow, grass, and a song she loves to sing called "5 little Ducks" and a book she loves me to read about first words of Fashion...like Spring Collection! While I was working on this piece I was constantly reminded of my good friend Julie who use to be a bird keeper for the Wild Animal Park and her little girl. I think the end result was a combination of all three of these wonderful girls. So happy to have it finally finished after 3 months of work. Let's hope my art starts coming more frequent, after all the holidays are approaching.

Rain Rain Stay Today, Go Away Some Other Day

2009-06-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

Happy to announce another remarkable bird to my collection of art reflecting my amazing little Emma. This image was inspired by my love for walking in the rain, London's Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, my Emma, and the joy of nature. I really miss the misty foggy rain and walking through the magnificent park that was the center of London. I walked that park every day we lived there and can't wait to take Emma on walks there. I know she will LOVE it!! I am hoping to have this piece posted up on my Etsy shop for sale in the next couple of days. Once I get the colors and printing looking just the way I want and get it framed and photographed, it will go up for sale as a 10X10 print.

Bella and Lulu

2009-05-13T13:14:00.001-07:00

Was absolutely thrilled to get a wonderful e-mail from Bella's mommy. Attached were these two photos of Bella's room with the art work they asked me to create. What a joy this project has been and getting to see my art in a little girls room half way across the globe was wonderful.

Oh, To Be In London

2009-05-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

As usual I am missing London like mad. I think how spring is popping up all over the city and how green and wet it all must be. The shopping and excitement and all there is to do.

I recently saw that one of my favorite museums I use to love to walk to (the V&A) is having an exhibit that I wish I could see. That's right the Victoria & Albert Museum this July is Telling Tales: Fantasy and Fear in Contemporary Design exhibition, which explores the trend among European designers to create limited edition pieces that push the boundaries between art and design.

Arranged into three sections, objects will be displayed according to themes; The Forest Glade (inspired by fairytales), The Enchanted Castle (work associated with status) and Heaven and Hell (exploring themes of mortality).

It sounds so magical and an artist dream land for inspiration and ideas!

On a different note but still fashion related...
Marc Jacobs said this lats night when asked about making the LV trunk again.

"Luxury travel is travelling with a toothbrush. That's it, end of story. The people who really live luxurious lives don't need to pack. They've got stuff wherever they go."

Here is a picture of one of my favorite outfits for LV this fall. Oh to be this glamorous!

Jess Brown Doll and the CPSIA

2009-04-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

I usually leave my "kid" blogging to my daughters blog, couldn't help to share her Jess Brown doll on my art blog. This truly is a work of art. I love Jess Brown dolls and was thrilled to get to special order mine right from Jess herself. Check out her site here... Jess Brown

Emma with her Jess Brown Doll she has named Emma too.

With everything that is going on with CPSIA and the chance that we could see the end to handmade America for kids, I really want to make sure I get what I can for Emma while I still can. I love buying her special handmade clothes, toys, and furniture. I have a wonderful wood telephone from Canada, a beautiful handcrafted wood chair, my Jess Brown doll, numerous dresses from Etsy shops and loads of other wonderful handmade blankets, burp cloths, and purses. Emma's world would be much duller and not so unique with out such wonderful one of a kind pieces. I don't want her to live in a world of plastic Mattel and fisher price, but that is exactly what the government is doing...Not sure what the CPSIA is and what you can do about it Please by all means check out this link CPSIA Resources

Custom Work

2009-04-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

The last month or so has kept me busy with some commissioned work. First up I did two really fun and super cute pieces for a young lady named Bella that is currently living in Europe and getting to see the world. Her room is being done over in a Parisian theme so I got the job of creating a few pieces of art to go on her newly painted walls. I did Bella in Paris at the Eiffel Tower and Bella and Lulu in Paris at the Arc de Triumph. Both were a big hit and are now currently for sale in my Etsy shop. I do plan on updating the colors in both pictures with French colors and Lulu will turn into a poodle so that there is a choice for my shoppers.

I just finished a wonderful watercolor for a good friend of mine. She had a wonderful picture of her niece and nephew that I then sketched out and painted in a large size of 18 X24 inches. It was a nice break to do a more realistic portrait piece. It's been a long time and it was very refreshing.
I did have loads of plans for getting some really cute pieces out for Easter to put in my Etsy shop, but time just didn't permit. I will still be doing them of course but they just didn't make it for Easter. The bright side is that they will be there in plenty of time for next year!

Another Chanel Victory

2009-01-28T13:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, Lagerfeld has done it again. All in white, was he thinking of me?:) No, but he was keeping it clean and delicate. I really enjoyed his couture line but was saddened by the presence of pants/leggings. I just don't get putting pants into a couture line. Both Lagerfeld and Armani did it and it was very disappointing. Even though I think Armani was the worst offender, Lagerfeld could have held the delicate look with out the use of such an item. I know it's just one girls fight against all things pants. But even when I walked into Nordstrom to spend my Christmas gift cards, there was but one dress in about every department except for the special occasion dresses (which still had...you guessed PANTS) and the dresses they did have weren't worth looking at twice. I am so glad Anthropolgie understands then need to stay feminine. I refuse to dress as my husband does!! That said here are a few more images from the Chanel show I did like!!

There's a credit crunch, not a creative crunch!

2009-01-27T13:47:00.000-08:00

I just love John Galliano. His show was a masterpiece all to itself. With huge influence from Monsieur Dior, and the a bit of Dutch. I am so in love with the courtier line for Spring. But when asked about the recession Gallian0 responded as always so eloquently and quotable "There's a credit crunch, not a creative crunch. Of course, everyone is being more careful with their discretionary purchases. I am. But it's our job to make people dream, and to provide the value in quality, cut, and imagination." And he has done his job so successfully, I know I'm dreaming! Here are just three of the amazing 39 dresses that were on display yesterday. And I love that there are NO pants!! I am still a firm believer that courtier for ladies should NOT include pants! Shame on you Armani!

2 Treasury's

2009-01-07T12:49:00.000-08:00

I feel really honored, I am featured in two treasury's today! I have been very quiet with my art of late, letting ideas brew in my head and a bit in a journal. But my head and journal are both getting crowed so yesterday I started on a new piece. Its coming along quite nicely and I am hoping that if all goes well it should be up for sale by Monday. Its wonderful to know that my pieces from last year are still adored.

I'm On Another Blog!!

2008-12-29T14:58:00.001-08:00

What a lovely Christmas present! Check out Filigree Garden blog and you will see my lovely "Finding Winter Cardinal" amongst some very talented artist. A big thank you to Liv for thinking of me and including my art!!!

Showcase

2008-12-06T15:01:00.001-08:00

In all the rushing around over the last month, I had a few moments of sanity and reason and managed to book some slots on Etsy for some showcases.I figured that those who would buy on line for the holidays would do so before Thanksgiving. And I also thought that since everyone would be home on Thanksgiving, that they may do a bit of cyber shopping. I was right! I got loads of views and hearts, and I think a sale or two!! I still have one showcase left for the year on December 9th then it's back to the drawing board (literally!) for some new art for the new year.

Wedding

2008-12-02T15:46:00.000-08:00

It's all finally over now. My first job doing stationery for a wedding. Don't know if I will ever do anything like it again. But it I learned a lot, and those that do it for a living...God bless them. What a load of work!!

I did all new art for the invites and had tight specifications as well as tons of revisions and new requests. I really wanted to get it right and really really wanted to make my sister in law and husband to be super happy with everything. In the end it took me over 100 hours of work to get the Save the Date cards, invitations, response cards, driving directions, map, escort cards, order of service, handkerchief cards, and table numbers done. I did all original art, all the layout and design, all the printing at home on my Epson R1800, all the cutting, trimming, and pasting and putting together. And in the end my sister in law was thrilled!! So I call that a success!

The invitation

My sister in law's middle name is Fern after her grandmother who passed away some years ago. So in honour of her grandmother who couldn't be there she wanted a fern illustration as a theme on the stationery, I spent hours pouring over the fern it went through loads of changes until I was happy (I think I am a harder client than anyone who actually hires me) I need to be happy even if my client was happy with the first sketch out. I did the final fern in Illustrator, and did each little leaf and stem just right until it looked great.

The Map

The map was by far the funnest piece to do. Since I know the area really well where they were getting married and I knew them very personally, it was fun putting in points of interest to them. I put in "Zoomies Yacht" which is were my sister in laws father has his boat moored. I also put in the Starbucks that my sister in law stops at every morning on her way to work in Little Italy, the Gaslamp Quarter where they love to go to dance, and Best Buy where my sister in law and her husband to be go every Sunday as an outing (they LOVE that place!!). I added a few more places of interest for those guest coming from out of town so they would have fun while in San Diego too.

The Order of Service and Hankie Card

The order of service was done twice, yes that means I double side printed, cut and folded 120 of these things which took 3 days to do to find out that someones name had been spelled wrong and had to do the whole lot over again. I wasn't thrilled, but wanted it to be right as I knew that if there was a mistake it would only make me look bad even though I was going off the information I was given to I was all to happy to do them over. The Hankie card was then attached to a antique lace handkerchief that was attached to the order of service and every lady and girl that came to the wedding was given an Order of Service with a hankie. I thought it was a lovely touch.

Escort Cards

This was quick and easy to print, cut and paste together. If the guest was having fillet Mignon with sea bass they got a blue card and if the guest was having chicken with shrimp they got an orange card. This made it easier on the servers to get the right food to the right guest.

Table Numbers

Finally the table numbers. Would you believe only days before the wedding I woke up in the middle of the night realizing that with out table numbers the escort cards would be no good! I thought only Brides woke up in the middle of the night with those kinds of last minute "OH my God I forgot about....." Well this time it was me. I made up the table numbers the next morning rushing to ... you guessed it the Paper Source to get the backing I needed.

On a Blog

2008-12-02T13:52:00.000-08:00

It is always so wonderful when others find you and your art and like it so much that they want to share it with others. I am so delighted with every sale I get in my Etsy shop and thrilled every time someone adds one of my pieces to their treasury. Now one of my most treasured pieces has found a spot on Susan's blog. Check out Kiddlebug, a fun blog for moms. Finding Winter Cardinal is the image of the day for her blog on fun things to do with your kids this winter. Thank you Susan for making my art a part of your site!!

All About the O

2008-11-29T13:26:00.000-08:00

I usually don't like to vent but can't seem to leave this one alone. I just love logos, especially good clean logos that send a quick message and provoke strong feelings. I also love reading about how a logo is created. The thought process and color choices and branding...its all very fascinating. But I have a bit of a rebuttal about Obama's logo. Yes, it's good design but am I the only one that thinks it looks like the Bank of America logo??
And then I came across the site of the people who did the logo and what they had to say about it. see here and was really disappointed. I am so fascinated by those who can do clean clear logos that have a real punch but to say "borrowing a trick from the Nike playbook. The shoe company’s famous swoosh means nothing," really is annoying! I did a lot of studding of logos while at art school and everyone knows that the "swoosh" in question is a wing from Nike the Greek goddess of strength, speed, and victory. So maybe those who did the work on the logo can do great clean design, borrowing more from a bank logo than anything else, but I would have rather they made educated statements in the process. Anyone who has read about art, propaganda, and government knows that a strong logos, slogans, and imagery can really be affective to any campaign so why not stick to that instead of Harley Davidson, or Nike. I would have loved to here about successes with great Swiss government billboards, or Russian military recruitment's that would have been much closer link to what Obama's campaign did than that of a shoe company.

Tuesday Book Review

2008-11-04T14:40:00.000-08:00

This is one of my all time favorite books. This book was the inspiration for me to get my degree in graphic design and it was the book that inspired my move to London (oh how I miss London).

This book takes you through some of the most amazing fashion designers and how they paired up with the best graphic designers and the amazing package design, logos, and presentations that evolved by their unique unions.

It starts off with Antoni and Alison (which I love and my Emma has the most wonderful little dress by them) and how important packaging and predestination is for their clothing. How Giorgio Armani oversees the graphic prestiontation and identity of his fasion house from every logo, t-shirt label, and fragrance bottle. The thought provoking advertisments of Comme Des Garcons is amazing. The thrill of how John Galliano's logo and packaging was brought together so cleverly. Alexander McQueen and Paul Smith's logo redesings. And loads of other desingers and how they work with graphic artists to accomlish such wonderful and powerful fashion brands, like Vivenne Westwood, You Must Create, and Anna Sui to name just a few more.

Each fashion desinger has it's own section and story to tell. Most (with out much suprise) come out of Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design in London. The layout is clean with wonerful product shots and photography to help tell each story.

Even though my path has taken a huge change in direction from the original (be a graphic designer for a fashion house) this book is still a huge inspiration for me. There are loads of wonderful creative stories that will inspire anyone with an artistic mind.

My art will start taking new life once again, but with my love for fahion in the forfront and will poor out in each new illustration as I move forward. I have a lot to thank to this book. And hopefully soon I too will be back living in London where I belong with all things creative.

Love This Dress

2008-10-29T14:11:00.001-07:00

Came across this dress in my daily fashion news by Hussein Chalayn. The Hussein Chalayan exhibition will run from January 21 until May 17 2009 at the Design Museum, Shad Thames, London SE1.
Airborne, a dress created from Swarovski crystals and more than 15,000 LED lights, and pieces from Afterwards, Chalayan's spring/summer 2000 collection, in which furniture was literally transformed into clothing.

Here are a few pieces from his spring 2009 collection that I like too
His show literally ended with a crash: the live smashing of dozens of wine glasses lined up along a pseudo-bar inset in the back of the set. While that happened, the stage was occupied by a circle of girls standing on a revolving dais, wearing molded-latex dresses that appeared to be frozen in aerodynamic motion. Each dress was hand-painted with images of crushed cars.

"It's about the speed in our lives and how it can only result in a crash," Chalayan explained, adding that the prints, which included number plates, car handles, and fenders, were "taken from pictures of car graves." The extraordinary talent Chalayan has is his ability to project something emotionally and politically pertinent onto his runway without making it oppressively doom-laden.

The Paper Source

2008-10-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

My really good friend and creative mate, Morgan (If you would love to find out more about what creative things my friend Morgan gets up to, check out her very cheeky and sassy blog at Internet Therapy), told me a month ago about a store called The Paper Source opening at the Forum in our neighborhood. Since she told me not a week goes by that I don't visit the shop at least 3 times! A Few Items I have purchased, I turned the tube map into a giant place mat for our table.

It is such a wonderful and fun store for those who love and appreciate good design, quality stationery, crafty and artsy people. And YES!! there is a HUGE difference between crafty and artsy people. I just discovered I am artsy NOT crafty. My sister-in-law's bridal shower was coming up and I really wanted to make some decorations for the shower. The Paper Source has these wonderful kits that you can put together beautiful magnolia flowers. I thought they would really be fun and add a bit to the party decorations. So I got four packs of flowers in different sizes and then spent the next 5 days making the stupid things. In the end they were exactly what I wanted them to be. The really added to the decor and were beautiful. But the time and patience it takes to make crafts is not my thing at all!! I will never be making these flowers again. I'm sticking to my art!

Fashion Week (my favorites)

2008-10-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Moschino for 2009

Keep forgetting to post some of my favorite shots from fashion week. There was a lot I didn't care for, but there was some wonderful items, and it makes one very excited for the clothes to come next year. By far Moschino was my favorite show. Great colors and embellishments.

Burberry for 2009

Moschino for 2009

Dior for 2009

Holiday Items Launch

2008-10-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

You know I haven't been posting it's due to more new art. I finally launched my holiday items. There still may be a few late editions, but the the three main paintings are done. Already thrilled to see the positive response to the new art. Here is a sample of the art as cards

The painting that is doing the best is my "Finding Winter Cardinal" I was inspired to do this piece because of my grandmother that I named my Emma after. Every year for Christmas my Grandmother (who is now 94) always sends out a beautifully illustrated card with a cardinal on it. So when I was thinking of winter cards to do, it was a given that one of them had to be with a red cardinal and a little Emma girl. It's very exciting to see that others really love it. I sent out my first print of "Finding Winter Cardinal" today and totally fitting and with great joy it went to a lovely lady Illinois (which is also were my grandmother lives)

Tuesday Book Review

2008-09-23T14:39:00.000-07:00

I know with Fashion week running ramped all over the world this month, it's been hard for me to take my eye off of whats up and coming for the spring. Burberry just had their show yesterday in Milan and it looks quite nice. I think Christopher Bailey always does such a wonderful job, even though I have enjoyed other shows of his more. This one still had quite a lot of wonderful trenches walking down the aisle. I know he had said a few years back that he could never tire of redesigning the coat. And this show once again proves it. Surprisingly with my love for Burberry, I don't have one single book about them. I have Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and hoards of other wonderful fashion books, but not one Burberry. So I decided to go and look up in Amazon to see if there was any books written about the fashion house and sadly, no. Then I got worried, I started going through all my fashion books, like "Fashion the century of the designer" and "Sample" but only one sentence between the large books could I find and that wasn't even worth it. So I started down the path of my fashion illustration books like "Stylishly Drawn" and "Fashion Illustration Next" but there was nothing there either. Finally I pulled out my book "100 Years of Fashion Illustration" and came across Burberry. Only a few images, but with Burberrys long history and wonderful past I think it's a book that is need of publishing, a story worth telling. Thomas Burberry was only 21 when he founded "Burberry" and that was over 150 years ago. Thomas invented the trench coat and the water resistant fabric that was used to make it. Check out the short but very informative history of Burberry. And if any one knows of a book that has loads of info about Burberry, I'd love to know of it. I must say though that my book "100 years of Fashion Illustration" is a delight and full of great facts and work spanning 100 years of fashion illustration.

Million Dollar Baby

2008-09-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

(Emma my million dollar baby)

I think I have one of these, or some form of one. If you have the time and want to read about what is really going on in the design, and merchandising world of children check out this link Baby It's from an article printed in the October issue of PRINT magazine. Very informative and they even mention Etsy as a place to shop for the modern nursery. Just like the article mentions, we don't dress Emma in licensed clothing, her highchair (a wonderful shade of orange) and stroller (a bright blue as seen above) are both by Stokke and cost together over $1500. With great companies like Boon, Trip Trap, Daily Tea, and Pediped there are loads of well designed choices for any modern parent. As much as I am one to purchase these items, there is still the old fashion in me that loves the old wooden and metal toys, great creative toys like crayons and Legos. And of course that comes out in my own watercolor paintings. I think it's wonderful to mix a bit of old with new and create a wonderful twist of the two. But I am all for leaving out the over done Disney (and a host of other over licensed products) these don't have a place in my home as long as I have anything to say about it.

Number 12 of 40

2008-09-18T10:03:00.001-07:00

Was thrilled to get voted in at the number 12 spot in the Etsy Handmade Kids Challenge!! Out of thousands of entries, I am was so happy to make it to the final 40 and to have people vote for my painting. Thanks to everyone who thought "Back with Friends" was # 1. If you want to know how everyone placed check out Winners or you can go strait to the art section Here. With a wonderful 289 votes and loads more hearts in my shop, it's been a great fun!!

Portrait Photography

2008-09-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

There are two types of photography I would love to be great at, product and portrait. I am sure with a bit more guidance, a lot of reading and getting to know my camera's ins and outs, oh and a small fortune in extra equipment I might be able to manage something really nice. This morning while reading my daily fashion news I stumbled across Emma Watson staring in the new addition of the Italian Vogue. I don't know what I would want more, to look that amazing in a photo, or to be able to shoot such amazing pictures of my own Emma.

Tuesday Book Review

2008-09-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

I don't even know which is better with this book the art or the story it tells of true self giving. I got this book at the MOCA in LA a few years back. Loved it from the moment I saw the cover, but how could you ever go wrong with art by Takashi Murakami (need I say more about the art??) And such a wonderful story by Yujin Kitagawa. Keba Keba is just one of those books that anyone would love to have sitting on their shelves, sharing with friends, and reading to young minds. Marc Jacobs reviewed the book saying " The true joy one receives from giving so generously, so selflessly of one's gifts-true not only of Keba Keba but of Yujin and Takashi, as well. This story, so simple, is a lesson we can all learn from and practice every chance we get."

More Work More Fun

2008-09-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been weeks since my last post. A bit shocked, but I have been busy. The old adage all work and no play.... Well this is fun and makes my time fly, and I don't feel dull at all :) below is a snap shot of a few pieces I have been working on. Loads more on it's way. Hopefully I will have about 6 new items in my shop by the weekend. It's been fun getting together some happy paintings for the holidays.

Early Voting!

2008-08-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

No need to wait until November to cast your vote, time to flex those voting muscles and support some wonderful creatives across America out there making the world a more beautiful and happy place to be!
I am so thrilled!! My "Back with friends" painting made it to the finales in the Kids Handmade Challenge under the Art category!! I do hope that anyone reading this will go out and vote for my for my painting!! It's simple and only takes a few moments go to this link Handmade Kid Challenge Register with Etsy if you haven't already, it's free and there is great shopping to be had for everyone once you do. Then cast your votes and don't forget to cast a vote on "Back with Friends" under the art category. The guest judges are from Boingboing, Cookie, decor8, Martha Stewart Living, Ohdeedoh, Parents and Treehugger. They will be choosing the Expert Panel Winners and I would love to be one of them!!

Last Breeze of Summer

2008-08-23T21:37:00.001-07:00

My little Emma has once again inspired another wonderful watercolor.

As summer draws to a close and classrooms begin to fill, the Last Breeze of Summer caresses your skin. There is still the sweetness in the air and warmth on your arms, a complete sense of clam and joy as you look forward to the magic of the coming holidays.I have added two new delightful items to my Etsy shop, a beautiful giclee print and personalized card.

Transport For London

2008-08-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love Transport For London. They have cameras all over the city and when ever I need my London fix I just click on their wonderful map and get live shots from my favorite places in the city.

Tuesday Book Review

2008-08-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

In light of all the news surrounding the upcoming movie about Coco Chanel (staring my favorite french actress Audrey Tautou), I chose today's book "Different Like Coco" An absolutely delightful Illustrated children's book, about the real Coco. Unlike the charmed life of some of today's fashion designers like Stella McCartney or Tom Ford. Coco came from a very poor family and ended up in an orphanage at age 12 after her mother died. She was an amazingly independent and confident lady. Knowing that she just as good as any wealthy well-bred lady in Paris, she took her talent and creativity for sewing and made simple, practical, and comfortable clothes to fit her frame. The book has loads of wonderful facts about Coco Chanel, like how she invented the cardigan sweater, and made it fashionable NOT to wear a corset. Just think we could all still be wearing corsets today if it wasn't for Coco. This book is great for any age girl. Each page is full of delightful drawings and ends with an inspiring message to be yourself, be different like Coco!

The Plane

2008-08-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here is my take on a modern little boys airplane as vector art. Waiting to hear my dad's response. He's going to cut one out in Masonite tomorrow at his home in Colorado and let me know how it comes out and if there are any more changes needed. I think it will look great as a stand alone piece or with the Eiffel Tower. Totally new to doing little boy things so it will be interesting to see how well it is received in the end by consumers.

A bit of advice

2008-08-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

In The Fashion Lab Vogue Daily News

18 August 2008, 12:48PM

AS the modern fashion industry becomes increasingly globalised, style maven Daphne Guinness, writing in the Financial Times, is celebrating a return to individuality.

"Between couture fashion and street fashion, there is a certain continuity. It's great to go to London's Camden Market or downtown New York and see what the kids are wearing," she says. "Today, you don't even have to travel to do this; all you have to do is look at fashion blogs."

"On one site you might see a hipster in Williamsburg, New York, for example, in very tight, very shrunken jackets and trousers, and then you jump to another and see a different type of person wearing an oversized shirt, belted with silver tights. It's like a bunch of ad-hoc experiments going on all the time."

With the media focusing increasingly on which celebrities are wearing which labels - or, indeed, collaborating with them - seeking out individuals with style is more refreshing than ever before, Guinness adds.

"Celebrities almost never look good unless they are 'out' at something or other, while real fashion animals always look a little interesting, even if they are only going to Starbucks. Individuality will always exist," she asserts. "It's more that it has become very underground and doesn't infiltrate the mainstream as much as it should, so you have to search it out, which is getting more difficult, but also more rewarding."

"It's exciting to see people inhabit their look, wearing clothes from morning to night. Fashion at its most interesting and purposeful, whether it's the most expensive clothes being made or the least expensive, is not about showing off - it's about creation."

Tea For Two

2008-08-18T10:10:00.000-07:00

Trying like mad to get a least one new item up on my online shop every week. Meet the latest illustration to my Remarkable Bird Shop.

Tea for Two

This was a really fun and fast image. It was Thursday at nap time and I was eager to get some art done. I had nothing even remotely ready to post for the weekend. I fell in love with some images of Emma having tea with her monkey and decided to draw and paint from there. In three days (which is absolute record time for me) I had my Tea for Two painting up in my shop. I'm hoping this week brings yet another wonderful painting (or two) But need to get busy on some wedding invitations for my sister-in-law and get that Global Gals logo colorized. Wow what a busy week I have ahead, hopefully I will get some of it posted on this blog too so everyone can see how all my projects are coming out. Oh, and I almost forgot. I need to get a plane drawn out too, my dad is going to cut it out of Masonite and we will add it to the shop for those who have little boys and want a plane to go with the Eiffel Tower instead of butterflies. I have to get the plans for the plane done this week and sent out so my dad has time to cut it out and bring it with him at the end of the month. Oh the work I will need to accomplish during Emma's nap.

Tuesday Book Review

2008-08-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

A fun walk through one of my favorite clothing stores Anthropologie, Donald secretly purchased this book while I was browsing. What a wonderful surprise!! A Dictionary written by the man Christian Dior himself! I absolutely adore Dior!! And all that is real fashion. And to have a book written by him and now released again in print for all of us to young to be around during his life is exceptional. From Accent to Zest and everything that is fashion in between this is a great guide for those who know, love and want to stay fashionable. Somethings are truly timeless, and this book proves it.

Eiffel Tower

2008-08-11T15:19:00.000-07:00

It's finally done. After almost a year of design, cutting, and painting, I finally finished my little girls Eiffel Tower and butterflies. It took me ages to decide what materials to use for the tower and butterflies and even longer to figure out what color to paint them. Then there was the matter of attaching them to the wall. I didn't want big holes or paint ripping off. I also didn't want a super pink room. So in the end my dad helped me pick out some great light weight pressed board (Masonite) Then he did the cutting at his home in Colorado. I used the color off of Emma's chairs from Pottery Barn for Kids (which is a lovely soft green), and the nice people at Home Depot made paint that matched perfect. I also found at Home Depot lovely little 3M poster mounts. I had to use 4 packs of the stuff, but the outcome means no holes in the walls and no paint that peals off and I can rearrange and take the tower with me where ever I move!! Voilà! a light weight, customizable, easy to affix to your walls over and over again, Eiffel Tower fit for a modern home!

Finished

2008-07-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

After two crazy weeks trying to squeeze in the time, in the wee hours of Saturday night I finished my third watercolor of my two birds series. Was thrilled with how well it came out and don't want to shrink it down a ton to fit into small frames just yet.

The bird was held gently, then set free and is now back with friends.

My inspiration came after a fluke cold spell in San Diego this spring. We were so excited by the light sprinkles and gray sky that we headed out for a walk. I bundled Emma up in some warm pink clothes and out the door we went. When we got back I thought she looked so cute with her pink hood up that I took a ton of photos standing by the door holding my keys. Thinking what cute illustrations they would make later. I came up with my three bird drawings before the night was through, but it took until half way through summer before I managed the time to finish them up. Here are the original photos I took of Emma.

I really wanted to combined my love for the crisp fall weather, Emma and Hyde Park. While expressing the gentleness, love and care children have with animals. Since Donald and I have a huge attachment for London and it's wonderful Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens it was only fitting that my thoughts would be there while I drew. When we were living in London, I would sit and draw for hours in the parks, and take photos every day rain or shine. Living on Queensway gave me direct access to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Every morning I would walk through the entire park and in the evenings stroll through with Donald. My "Two Birds" series is a reflection of the wonderful fall in that park and how magical I think it is, nothing like the blah that is San Diego's North County. I can't wait for the day that I can take my darling daughter and crunch through the autumn leaves in London.

And yes, if you look closely at the picture you can see my Strawberry Shortcake cup I use for my water when I paint that I have had since I was about 7, my Burberry pencil case Donald purchased for me about 4 years ago, and my first piece of Portmeirion that Donald purchase for me about 12 years ago when we were still dating so that I would have something to hold my paint brushes in.

A Light for Tim

2008-07-17T14:57:00.000-07:00

Ask any one who does what they love, who inspired them, who encouraged them, who stood by them and I assure you the list won't be short. Mine is no different. I have so many to thank in my heart daily for their love and support. It's so hard to put into words the gratefulness you feel in your heart to those who have done so much for you, but I will try. Today I thank Tim.
My brother.
My friend.

His first mentor in art that I know of was our Uncle Fred. Uncle Fred was a very talented artist and my brother and sister Bernadette would spend hours learning to draw from him as small children. I was way too young to remember those happy times before my Uncle Fred passed away, but Tim and Bernadette never let me forget how great an inspiration he was. As a child I spent many hours drawing with Tim, he was always the one to spend his pocket money on "How to Draw" books. We would grab the reams of computer paper my dad would bring home and sketch for hours out of those books. We would draw pictures of characters we would create from his D&D game, animals we loved or wish in our secret lives we could be, or favorite cartoon characters from Saturday mornings. I loved the art he created that he would bring home from Jr high and high school (loads of which I still have today, that used to hang in his home). I wanted so desperately to be as good an artist as him. I was quite surprised when he didn't major in art in college, nor did he take any art classes. He went on to major in anthropology at UCSD and was looking to get a second degree in computer science. He never gave up on watching animation, and enjoying the art of others. He introduced me to some brilliant artists such as Maxfield Parrish, Patrick Nagel, and Hayo Murasaki. He was always up for visiting a museum or three, and loved discussions around art. He had even started to purchase some amazing art pieces for his own home.

The last time the two of us were together we were planning a trip to a medieval exhibit downtown (one which I never did see as I couldn't go with out him) and going to the upcoming Comic Con (which of course we never did attend together).

He passed away 8 years ago today and not a day goes by that I don't think of him and how he fostered my love for art at such an early age. A few years back I was visiting Paris and toured many wonderful catholic churches like Notre Dame and Sacré-Coeur. Every time I went into a church I would light a candle for Tim. Below is the light from Notre Dame for a life well lived and much loved.

Through my life he encouraged me not to give up on my art and I never have.

Tuesday Book Review

2008-07-08T15:07:00.000-07:00

Put on Your Pearls Girls!

Not only is Lulu Guinness wonderful at making fabulous hand bags, she also has a valued sense on what it means to be a lady. We are so fortunate that Lulu and Martin Welch teamed up to create such a great book. This pop up book is for us adults that never quite outgrew our love for wonderfully illustrated books. Insightful fun and a must for any stylish lady 1 to 100. Donald purchased this book for me at Harrods while living in London for our 6th year wedding anniversary. From an artist standpoint, I wish I had done this! It's so clever, stylish, and beautiful. The art alone is a joy to look at and the words blend so well. A wonderful book to add to your collection or get for your stylish girlfriends. I gave it recently at a baby shower, since my little Emma loves it when I read it to her. The message is strong about being true to yourself, your own style and always feel great about who you are, never forget to day dream, count your blessings and so much more, so go and "Put on your pearls girls!"

New Art New Store

2008-07-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

Donald and I have been VERY busy this holiday weekend. Between the 4th of July celebrations, trying to beat the heat and humidity that has fallen on San Diego, playing with our darling 17th month old, launching a new store on Etsy for our photography and trying to get my new art up, we are swamped. After doing research and learning loads about selling on line and selling on Esty, the key is post, and post lots in order to draw people to your store. Unfortunately for me, it takes me ages to get a piece of art finished to launch, so I decided to wait until I had a few items to post and post them during a busy holiday weekend. But now that we are about half way through the weekend, I am ready to get Emma up from her afternoon nap and go to the pool to cool off and relax. I know Donald and Emma will be thrilled to get out and away from our computers and art for a bit. Tomorrow more posting on Etsy, and then a week full of more art and painting.

Below are some of my new items. And Yes! my lovely Emma was my wonderful model for all my new art. Each new piece has been done in watercolor and pencil and then printed as a giclee on Crane fine art paper. They have turned out so beautiful, I can't help but share.

Beach Babe with large blue bow

Girl About Town
and personalized cards too!

Tuesday Book Review

2008-07-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

OK, time for a bit of book review. Yes, art people read, as a matter of fact most artist I know have bigger personal libraries then scholastic types (this still doesn't mean I know how to spell).

First up (which I found it difficult to decide what book to review first)
Drawing People, How to portray the clothed figure.

I chose this book because it has been such a great resource for my art of late. I purchased this book not that long ago, maybe 4 or 5 months ago for the sole purpose of drawing children. None of my life drawing books at home went over drawing children, and it was even more surprising how hard it is to find a book with more than just 1 or 2 pages on the subject. Most people think it's us just smaller, or just draw a big head on a squat body with big eyes and a button nose and large grin and you have a kid. Well it's not that simple, children are way out of proportion to adults and trying to draw different ages in the younger years gets quite complicated. You would think that with the explosion of children's book market that this would be easy to find...no. I just wanted a book that would go over key points so that my imagery of children wouldn't appear off. This was the only book I could find with quite a bit of good information. Not really my drawing style, but the key information on proportions and age differences were there. I also came to the conclusion that since this was never taught to me in art school and the information was really hard to find that is was no wonder that there is so many ugly illustrated children's books on the market. I think that the books that are beautifully done are by artists that have taken the time to study and educate them selves on drawing children. I have to admit I have a wonderful model, which makes me really fortunate. But it's still nice to have a bit of good reference that puts it into words and sketches what makes children look like children. If you know of any other books on the subject PLEASE let me know. Otherwise, this is your best bet for now.

Global Gals!

2008-06-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful organization has asked for a logo (well and image of sorts) from me. Global Gals is a group of wonderful women that meet about once a month to discuss everything from the current elections, to women's health, our children's education, global economy, and beyond. You can check out their website at Global Gals or their blog at Global Gals

The logo hasn't been approved yet, but I should find out what everyone thinks tonight at our meeting.

Hayao Miyazaki

2008-06-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

I was out to dinner with some friends recently and one of my friends was talking about how much she hates the Disney Princesses. I have to say it is really hard to argue when you have a little girl, that just maybe they aren't the best role models. For some reason none of them have moms (more like evil step moms) and they disobey their fathers by trying to go off with some guy at 14 (Little Mermaid), or fall in love with some guy over a dance (Cinderella), or even better just one kiss and they live happily ever after (Sleeping Beauty). Not exactly realistic view on life, love, or relationships. My little Emma is still too young (16months) to be "into" the Disney Princesses, but I did find myself in a dilemma recently with the TV. I had put on Sesame Street just for fun, and when it ended she started crying. After about 15 minutes of tears and no end in sight I knew I needed to fix the problem. I called Donald who recommended that I put a movie on with our Xbox360 Elite. I had no clue how to operate the Xbox, so through Emma's tears and my frustration, he calmly helped me get a Baby Einstein video on (he recommended I put on Kiki's Delivery Service) Emma was not at all amused with the baby video, so I reluctantly came around to Donald's idea. I put in HayaoMiyazaki's film and Emma loved it! I haven't seen the movie since my brother passed away. He use to put on all the Hayao Miyazaki films when my nieces were little. What a breath of fresh air. Kiki has two parents that love her very much and want the best for her. When she turns 13, as a witch she is suppose to go out into the world and find a town to take care of. And through much determination and believing in herself she becomes loved by her new town, and finds a special (male) friend too! And no, there is not a marriage at the end just a start of a wonderful new friendship. It's amazingly cute, fun and Kiki has the best personality. Definitely someone I wouldn't mind my little Emma looking up to. And the benefit for me is I get to watch a beautiful Hayao Miyazaki film. It is such a wonderfully new fresh inspiration to my art (something that I really needed to pull me out a bit of artistic depression). I had been so afraid to watch all the Miyazaki films since my brother passed away, I just knew I would cry missing him so much. It was hard watching the movie through glossy tears remembering Tim and how he introduced me to such wonderful films, but the beauty and happiness of the film made want want to draw. It was a pleasure drawing while the film was on and Emma was napping, the movie has lovely soft music, almost magical. It was such a great experience. And my art is really seeing such a positive change, something I am proud of. Thank you Hayao Miyazaki! Thank you Tim! And thank you Donald!

Father's Day Showcase

2008-06-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

I am on Etsy's Father's Day Showcase for today only. They are showcasing my Golfer Dad Card. Take a look if you have a golfing dad in your family :) I also have a print of the golfer too!

Fathers Day Showcase

A Stapler??

2008-05-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

Our First Stapler!

What an odd item... a stapler. Even the word is a bit odd but for some reason they are so important, even pop culture has found a place in the craziness of staplers with the ever famous "Red Stapler" from the movie Office Space. But for some reason over the last 8 years Donald and I have never found a real reason to own one. As an artist you never find a need to actually staple anything, that just put holes into works of art and who really wants to do that? Even with us getting our degrees, writing papers and Donald going through his masters program we never found a need to get one. Our reports were always put into some sort of binder and art was always mounted on to board. But now with my online store, I find myself in the world of packaging (which I love!!) and no stapler (which seems really strange)!! It's just not normally spoken, "Hey honey, let's make our Friday night really fun and go purchase a stapler!" But that is exactly what I did :) I have been putting together one of my thank you cards for new moms in a package of 3 and the absence of a stapler is quite inconvenient. But finally after a trip to Staples some yummy Mexican food, and Starbucks with kid run a muck, Uncle Mike and Donald, I came home and stapled my first package of cards together. We are now the proud owners of a wonderful flat back stapler.

My First Package of Cards :)

Sketch

2008-05-25T13:36:00.000-07:00

My friend Wendy has a lovely little girl (Cate) who is turning 1! She asked that you not bring gifts to the party, but I still couldn't help myself. I spent yesterday afternoon sketching out a picture of the two of them from photos I took at my Emma's first birthday a few months back. I wrapped it inside a children's book so that it wouldn't get bent. It's just a little something I thought Cate would cherish when she was older. I do hope they like it, the party is this afternoon. Unfortunately the scanned jpg below is nothing compared to the real sketch.

Soft Opening

2008-05-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

After loads of tears, disagreements, laughs, and hard work I have finally opened my online shop. It's a very soft opening with only 2 items up for sale but as the weeks continue my shop will grow. I should be receiving all my mailing and packaging items today or tomorrow. On Friday, Donald and I are going shopping for specialty fine art cotton paper that I can use in my Epson. Which any artist will tell you, the better the paper the better the print! Of course it helps to have a wonderful Epson R1800 that does everything and a paper supplier that also loves Epson printers so carries only the best to run through them. My first two items up for sale are both printed on 100% cotton acid-free Hahnemuhle photo rag 308 gsm paper. This is currently my choice for all fine prints, but am looking forward to talking to my paper supplier to see if they recommend something a bit different for what I am doing or if I should stick with my first choice. I absolutely love paper shopping and am looking forward to my Friday! And if all goes well, with in a few weeks I can have a Grand Opening for my shop. You can currently visit my shop by clicking on the link to in the upper left.

Logo Update

2008-05-07T18:21:00.001-07:00

Did some work on my bird logo today, made some minor changes that make a big impact. I cleaned up my flower and leaves, I redid the swish in the branch, gave my bird more bird like legs, and fixed the eye area. I love the way it looks now more than ever.

Pirate Girl of the Sandbox

2008-05-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

I have been working on my Pirate Girl of the Sandbox. I still need to do a sailor girl to go along side this one. I got the idea from spending so much time at the playground watching Emma run around like a little pirate stealing all the shoes that were taken off to play in the sand. Emma loves shoes (hers and everyone else), so I am always having to return shoes to other mommies and kids. Emma doesn't mind ever giving them back and always does so with a smile, I think she is just happy to have them for what ever brief moment she can. So just image the Pirate Girl's bucket full of shoes. The pose came from pictures that I took one day while Donald and Emma and I were at the beach in Carlsbad.

Pirate Girl of the Sandbox

April Showers

2008-04-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the end of April. I finally redid my April showers. Now if only San Diego could get some rain.

April Showers

Im in Love with G-mail

2008-04-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, If you read my last post you might have some idea of how depressed I might be. But my spirits are high with my new found love....G-mail. I was going through some old G-mails to my lovely Donald and remembered that I had sent him art to look at. One piece is below! It's Emma's birthday party invitation!!! When I am working on art I will save a pdf and send it to him at work to look at and give feedback. I am so thrilled that I have done this, I opened it up in Illustrator and the art is still intact. Now I am on a hunt through all my G-mail to see what other surprises might be hidden that my hard drive lost. I know that regular e-mail would have never allowed me to send such large files let alone save them forever. I love G-mail!!

Emma's First Birthday Party Invitation

Backup!

2008-04-24T13:29:00.001-07:00

Save! Save! Save! and Backup! Backup! Backup!
I just lost all my art I did for 5 months. I got lazy about backing up and just didn't bother to BACKUP my files. It doesn't take long to do, so what ever you are doing right now, stop and think "Can I afford to loose all the files on my computer?" If the answer is "No!" then read no further and back up. I had sent my hard drive back to Wisconsin to a reputable company that specializes in hard drive recovery and after they worked on it for 2 weeks in a clean room, replaced parts and did everything known to man, they still couldn't retrieve the lost files. I lost all the art work I did for my daughters first birthday, my Christmas cards, my Halloween cards, my Easter cards, the logo I did for Dress Angles, and so much more, not to mention pictures from the last five months of my daughter life, which is her first Thanksgiving, her first Christmas, and her first Birthday. We are all so devastated in our home right now. The good news is that we still have the images on her blog of all those occasions, and other relatives were kind enough to take some photos and give us digital copies so it isn't a complete loss, just one I never want to repeat. So in summary

Save! Save! Save! & Backup! Backup! Backup!

Concept For Cover Art

2008-04-20T15:08:00.001-07:00

Waiting Approval

2008-04-16T14:02:00.001-07:00

Finished the baptism invitation! Just waiting approval

Baptism

2008-04-16T12:29:00.001-07:00

I have been working on a new piece for a baby girl's baptism. Just about done now. They wanted to do a French theme, so I did a toile style drawing for the art. I used the cross on my rosary I got from the Notre Dame Cathedral when I was in Pairs a few years ago as a template for the cross in my drawing. The pose came from one of many pictures I took of my little Emma sleeping. I usually don't do many religious pieces, but thought this came out very sweet.

Missing Ladybugs

2008-04-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

OK, time to use your imagination. I said I was going to stay away from digital until my hard drive came back so this is a sketch with out the vital digital imagery. I did this sketch knowing that there would be flowers and ladybugs all done in Illustrator then transfered to Photoshop and composed with this sketch in color. So when you look at the little girl imagine a few flowers and ladybugs and you'll have a good idea how this picture will turn out.

Ladybug Girl

New Art

2008-04-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

I have been working on some new art. This first one actually made it to the digital stage before my hard drive died (good news the hard drive reached its destination in Wisconsin). But since my hard drive is off to get fixed I don't have the finished art. I can however show the sketch

April Showers

I am hoping that there will be a complete recovery of the hard drive so that I am not having to redo hundreds of hours of art. This piece (once the final sketch was finished by hand) took about 6 hours in Photoshop to finish, and that is only one of many that are waiting to be recovered. I am planing to finish setting up my online store and if all goes well have this and a few other items up for sale before the end of the month.

Logos

2008-04-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

Just got an e-mail from a friend of mine that I did two logos for while I was living in London. Was thrilled to see my work up on his website as well as on his product that he has invented. He works professionally as a photojournalist and does amazing work, the product he invited is the outcome of years working in the field. Check out my logos and a really cool product and company at

www.d-pro.tv

Dress Angels

2008-04-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends has started a non-profit company called Dress Angels. I was so excited when she asked me to do the logo. Her organization makes dresses for little girls who have never had their own brand new dress. The dress is made for the little girl and than given to her secretly from the Dress Angels. My little Emma has tons of dress and I just couldn't imagine a little girl with out her own new dress. I think it is a wonderful cause and am glad to be a part of it.

Easter Card

2008-03-31T14:50:00.000-07:00

Here is the Easter Card that never got sent. I loved doing this picture. Emma of course was my model as she ran through the house carrying any one of her favorite stuffed toys. I slotted in the bunny and tulips to make a more fun Easter feel. Really wish my hard drive hadn't died so that everyone could have gotten one of these in the post. We sent out the hard drive today and are hoping that it doesn't get lost in the mail and they are able to recover all those files.

Good with Bad

2008-03-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

I am always wanting more time to sketch out my ideas before they get to the computer, but sometimes the computer wins out long before its turn. The good news is that I am now given the chance (at least a week or two) to work on my sketches (which means better art!). The bad news is that my hard drive broke, and the last time I did a backup was 6 months ago. So all the art I have done in the last 6 months (which is a ton) is lost....for now. Donald and I have chosen to spend the cash to get the information retrieved off the hard drive. This may take a few weeks, wont know until Monday when we call the company. So in the mean time I have decieded to work on my drawings and stay away from digital. This should be really fun. I will have to scan my drawings as they get finished so that everyone can see them as I go.

It's About Time

2008-03-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

I have finally joined the world of art bloggers everywhere. After trying to find time to e-mail, call and mail all my friends and family on my latest art endeavors, I have decieded to blog and let everyone see what I'm up to whenever they want. Welcome and enjoy