Not A Baby Anymore

Looking at our son lately Antonio & I realize he's not a baby anymore. Where does time go? He went from a tiny 7 pound baby to a 30lb big boy. We're doing our best to soak up every second of it. With him at the studio daily we have a great opportunity to do just that. I thought somehow all this tied into the baby print above. I'm always amused by how expressive a baby's face can be. Just a few of these had started out in an old sketchbook & I thought each baby became stronger with more friends around. I added some text (stamped / my handwriting) & sprinkled in a few patterns to round it all out.

Childrens Illustartors update

I recently updated my page on Children's Illustrators (click below to see)  I still have a few empty slots so more updates to come but this is a fun, fresh start!  Take a look.  So the big daddy of updates next my website.  Yikes now that's so effort....  As you can see you can't take the Hallmark out of me I continue to find great joy in making seasonal art!

Childrens Illustrators

Keep on Truckin

This is what I always my mantra when I get tired or overwhelmed.  Dorky I know but it works for me.  Have a great weekend.  Over & OUT!

The Comforts of Home

It's the little things that make up life & the same little things I often forget to take in & enjoy.

Just a subtle reminder to myself.  Slowdown, touch, take a look, reach out, remember....  

Color Studies

Color-it's what makes my world go around.  It's one of my favorite things & always has been.  I remember getting in trouble in first grade art class for gathering & hiding all the scarlet crayons in my desk.  I just thought they were SO beautiful I wanted them close to me.  Different colors make me feel different ways & that brought on this little color study.  

Painted Flowers

If flowers bloomed in the cold of winter this is how I think they would look.

Val Pals

Today I wanted to share the Val Pals illustration I made. It's a throw back to all the activities I remember enjoying so much from school. Making Valentines, giving, receiving the nice little sentiments & enjoying the sweets that often accompanied them. Every year my Dad would make me a Valentine's Day box. (I'll have to see if I can't find a picture up of this) It was made of foam core, a simple house shape with either red or pink exterior. My name cut out of patterned paper on one side, a perfectly cut opening at the top for all the Valentines to go in. Finally my favorite part. The roof- which was completely covered in conversation hearts that we would glue on together. Me, always picking out my favorite sayings to go front & center. (Hot Stuff & No Way) I hope to make Luca a similar version someday!

Modern Floral

Winter blew bye.... Spring says Hi! It's warm here today- I'm ready for the sun! Thought this print was a little nod in the direction of SPRiNG

Will You Be My Valentine?

With Valentines Day only about a week away I figured it was time to share this print we created for Pottery Barn Kids Valentine 09 collection.  Gilda (who worked with us for about 2 years) was a big part of bringing this print to life.  I decided a fitting name for it was Forest Full of Love. Somehow naming the art something endearing seems to always help.  Animals delivering confections, flowers & sentiments of LOVE to their pals- what could be sweeter?  Have you bought or made your Valentines yet?  (I miss that.....)

All Wrapped UP!

Hello & Happy Monday to All.  Thanks for nice feedback on the Fairy Trip-tic!  Today I thought I'd show some collections I worked for All Wrapped Up. (quick scans from their most recent catalog)  Liz & I worked on the baby collection together & were thrilled to get a more updated color palette in - no more boring pastels.  The Princess (girl's group) & Pirate (boy's group) turned out great-fun themes to build a party around!  I love seeing product (mine or not) out there that doesn't always feature licensed characters.  The fairies are a bit quirky & have lots of fun pattern detail.  The treasure map has lots of destination any little guy would like to explore Looks like we'll be doing much more with All Wrapped Up.  I'll keep you posted!