Hear Ye, Hear Ye

Like many of you out there, I LOVE children's books! Perhaps like myself, you may gravitate towards classic children's stories from a time long ago. You might also agree that some of the children's literature of today lack a certain kind of magic. As I'm beginning in my path as an illustrator, I can only hope to create work that inspries, makes a positive impact, and is magic!

Thank goodness for Mac Barnett, a very charming guy who writes very charming children's stories. Mac is the brains behind this manifesto.  He was able to put into words what so many who create & love children's books have been feeling. The stunning art and hand written lettering for the proclamation was beautifully done by Carson Ellis. I still think of myself as an aspiring children's book illustrator, so to be mentioned in the same sentence, let alone as a signatory for this proclamation, with all these artist that I admire was pretty unreal. Thank you universe for being so friendly, kind and keeping things magical.

The Proclamation is being featured in the Nov/Dec Horn book a publication about books for children and young adults. To get a better look at the Document you can go to The Picture Book.co or join the conversation being had on Twitter & Facebook.

IT'S A SMALL WORLD

School House Africa, framed dimensions: 8 x 10

London Rain, framed dimensions: 7 x 4

Here are two collage/ paintings I am contributing to a group exhibit at the Gallery Nucleus. The show is connected to the release of new children's book It's a Small World, Illustrated beautifully by Joey Chou!
To learn more about the show click here: IT'S A SMALL WORLD!!!

Celebrate Summer

Pheeew! just got a post in before the end of the month. I was asked to create an invite for a summer party, at top is the card front final version and under a couple of concepts that didn't pass. Hoping those who have been effected by the bad weather on the east coast are safe and quick recovery.

* Inspiration *

Above is a collection of Images that I often turn to for a creative spark. I've been gathering images like these for awhile, they've always been helpful when I run into creative road blocks. I highly recommend putting together an inspiration board. It can also serve as a reminder of things that influence and motivate you to create. I'd also like to share a few websites that I constantly visit to help recharge my batteries, I've listed them under Inspiration. Hope you enjoy them as much I as do.

Tattoo Circus

Here is another activity I came up with for the latest edition of the goods. Summer, summer, summertime!

General Blue Owl

My latest piece for McSweeney's The Goods. I was given a day to come up with the concept and execute, luckily the editors weren't picky.

Queer

Every now and then a project comes along that is an honor to be apart of. So much so that you'd probably work on it for free if they hadn't already offered to pay. Queer, a guide for LGBT teens, was that sort of assignment for me. Last year there were so many tragic stories of LGBT teens being bullied & harassed to the point of suicide. It's deeply saddening, but as an amazing group of compassionate people suggested "It Gets Better". My hope is that this book will help show LGBT teens that it does get better and remind them that they're not alone, and that they matter, and that they are beautiful just as they are! To learn more about the book click Queer.