Cara Ansley

Rugadoro Handmade Carnival Masks

2011-06-12T17:21:00.001-04:00

While exploring the streets of Venice two weeks ago, I came across the most fantastic of mask shops: Rugadoro. All the masks in this shop were handmade with a patchwork of colorful fabrics. When I visited, the artist was in working on a mask. She uses a craft past to adhere the scraps to a basic mask mold. The shapes range anywhere from traditional human faces to those of animals (rabbit and pig below).

I was completely captivated by the beauty and originality of these designs. I already regret not claiming one as my own, but with prices of 50-80+ euro perhaps it is best that I wait until I'm no longer working with a student budget! (Photo Credits: Image 3 below by Brian J. McMorrow.)

Paul

2011-06-10T08:00:00.031-04:00

In Aix-en-Provence, France I came across a fabulous bakery. The identity design was clean and refined but still had the personality one desires in a French bakery. The interior was inviting and filled with charming things to eat. I ordered a pistachio macaron (pistachio being a flavor of the region) and the memory of it still lingers in my mind. Definitely try this shop out. Don't worry though! You won't have to dust off your passport for this bakery, Paul is established in Europe, the Middle East and Asia as well as the United States. Find one near you online.

Acqua Alta Bookshop

2011-06-09T08:47:00.000-04:00

A friend and I recently traveled to Venice. This is the kind of town that you want to explore on foot (or ideally by gondola). While wandering through the streets we found the Acqua Alta Bookshop. There was a sign as you entered that claimed this was, "the most beautiful bookshop in the world" and the shop completely lived up to that claim. Gondolas and boats were filled with books and every other nook was stuffed with volumes on art, Venice and any other topic you can imagine. (Photo credit for image above.)

On the floor a path is marked. Following the yellow footprints leads you to the shop's view of a canal.

The next time you are in Venice you must check out this shop... but it might be best if you just happen upon it. Happy travels!

Charleston on Design

2011-04-19T17:10:00.000-04:00

I spent Saturday in Charleston with these lovely ladies. We wandered the cobblestone streets admiring historic architectural design and poked around Charleston's garden's. I recommend a harbor tour for a quick overview with plenty of city history tossed in. Below are a few highlights of the beauty of this southern jewel city. Clockwise from top left: Charleston harbor/Maritime center, Arthur Ravenel Jr. bridge, Hyman's seafood, St. Michael's church

The Sketchbook Project Tour :: Atlanta

2011-04-11T20:28:00.002-04:00

This weekend I spent a short time at the Granite Room in Atlanta to see the Sketchbook Project. My adorable friend Christin participated in this unique show and I wanted to "check out" her book... literally. (See sneak peeks from her book at her blog, Wishful Thinking.) My sister and I arrived to see plenty of show-goers flipping through sketchbooks. I signed up for my library card and requested Christin's book from the stacks. It was a lovely experience and I wish I had a few more minutes to explore additional books from other artists. The Sketchbook Project is on tour for a while longer and is headed to Washington, DC next. I recommend stopping by!

The Granite Room

Signing up for my library card!

The stacks—plenty of colorful spines

A peek at Christin's book

Cute library card—aka souvenir

Me and my sis

Support Teachers (& Local Art!)

2011-04-07T19:45:00.001-04:00

I recently picked up this piece at the faculty exhibition of the university I attend. It is always inspirational and humbling to see the personal work of those who teach me. I sometimes get accustomed to attending their classes and forget the talent that should make me sit up and listen while taking down every word from their lips. I am grateful for all I learned from them and am thrilled to have pieces by my professors'.
(The piece above: Firefly by Jon Andrews)

Babar's Dream :: the concocted universe

2011-03-14T22:03:00.000-04:00

I've been reading Edward R. Tufte's Visual Explanations this evening in search of useful tidbits on William Playfair (the inventor of the pie, bar and line graphs). The topic is as interesting as I could expect a history paper topic to be. Just as my head began to nod I flipped the page to the colorful image you see above: Babar's Dream by Jean de Brunhoff (1933). Tufte uses the watercolor to illustrate, "concocted universes, showing all at once what never has been together...an impossibly wonderful scene". This image of Babar launches me back to my childhood. I grew up with King Babar and distinctly remember accidentally finding a wind-up doll of the peaceful elephant hidden in a cupboard. It was intended to be a Christmas gift for me and I felt like such a bad girl for discovering him early. The books, stuffed elephants and even the Babar perfume...I was completely in love. (Did I mention that as a child I hoped to become an elephant doctor?) Did you grow up with Babar?

I would like to recommend Tufte's work on the basis of his sound, useful instruction to designers on the topic of information graphics, but I especially enjoyed running across the, "graceful winged elephants who chase Misfortune away...and bring back Happiness". I know they brought me a little Happiness tonight!

Starbucks Petites

2011-03-10T23:18:00.001-05:00

Went with the coworkers today to try out Starbucks' new petite treats. I chose this precious pink cake pop to accompany my chai. Not only was it a delicious 3 o'clock pick-me-up, but it was just about the cutest thing I've seen all week. Watch out for those 170 calories though—a bit of a splurge for what amounts to two bites. Worth it? Um, yeah.
(Photo credit: Starbucks.com)

Laundry Sacks

2011-03-04T18:33:00.001-05:00

Today my laundry sacks were printed and delivered to their new owners. Before I sent them out the door I snapped a few pics to share with you. The sacks were screen printed at Dapper Ink in teal and charcoal. I'm happy with the results and enjoyed custom wrapping each package before it went out. Check it out below:

Vintage Valentine

2011-02-14T08:23:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share this sweet vintage valentine from my dad's collection. I think it's super cute how this one folds open for an additional message. The front reads "All in a nut shell My Valentine" and the inside says "Why nut-meet me half way". So it doesn't really make sense to me, but isn't that what makes old stuff so cool? Happy Valentines day :)

Stationery Designs @ Dapper Ink

2011-02-12T07:56:00.000-05:00

You can now find my stationery at Dapper Ink Custom Outfitters. Drop by their shop and check it out. These little cards are so sweet for dropping a line to friends. They are blank inside so they work for any occasion you want to dream up! (Dapper Ink is located on Wade Hampton Blvd. in Greenville, SC)

Graduate Thesis Exhibition: Harris & Spalding

2011-02-04T15:16:00.002-05:00

One week ago was the opening of my graduate thesis exhibition at Dapper Ink Custom Outfitters. Thanks to all those who came out to see my work and make the evening a special one for me! Today I installed the show in the exhibition hallway in the Sargent Art Building on Bob Jones Unversity campus (1700 Wade Hampton | Greenville). My pieces currently share the space with the breathtaking work of Jaime Spalding. In addition to her colorful paintings (one of which I am the proud new owner!) Jaime works on wood with torches and wood-burning tools. You really don't want to miss this. Come by to check out a one of a kind show. (As a side note: the piece pictured below is taller than me!)
Exhibition hall hours: M-Sat 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
For those out of town you can see snipits of our work here.

Fallen by Jaime Spalding

Some Love from Parachute.

2011-02-02T16:58:00.000-05:00

My Typographic Pillows make an appearance in this fabulous photo shoot over at madebyparachute. Doesn't the ampersand make a great addition to this Valentine's shoot (if I do say so myself)? Be sure to snag one of these stylish tees for you and your sweetie! Photos by Matt Moreau of Dapper Ink.

Map Wrap

2011-02-02T09:42:00.000-05:00

Remember the map design from my previous post? I've printed it up as gift wrap. The bright colors would be great for birthdays or just because.

Asheville :: Biltmore/Tobacco Barn

2011-01-29T17:51:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago some girlfriends and I took an inspiration trip to Asheville. Our first stop was the Biltmore Estate which was completed in 1895 and served as a "mountain escape" for George Washington Vanderbilt II. It is the largest privately-owned home in the United States and its 250 rooms are full of inspiring fabrics, patterns, ornately carved wood and original artworks by the likes of Whistler, Sargent and Durer. Our favorite? the library brimming with antique volumes! If you have not yet seen it for yourself be sure to add it to the list, it's worth it!

To keep with the historic theme we had to swing by my favorite antique shop in Asheville, the Tobacco Barn. This is the place to go for unique and exciting treasures from periods past. Below is a sampling of what you might discover upon visiting this must-stop shop.

I wanted to find a place for this cabinet in my life. How about those typographic drawer pulls?!

Loving the huge graphic simplicity of this vintage type

So many vintage chairs to choose from. I liked this one.

Maroc

2011-01-23T09:04:00.000-05:00

Last night while digging through a drawer of scrap paper I unearthed this handkerchief given to us by my grandparents. They picked it up during the years they lived in Morocco (1950s). I've put it up at my desk today and am drawing inspiration from the illustrations and colors. It inspires not only my design, but the idea of bringing something memorable back from my world travels. What have you kept from your adventures to reminisce about a place and inspire your work?

Graduate Thesis Exhibition

2011-01-21T15:05:00.001-05:00

I've been neglecting this blog a bit lately while preparing for my Graduate Thesis Exhibition. However I am back briefly today to invite you all to the exhibition. The opening will be January 28 from 5:30 until 9 p.m. at Dapper Ink Custom Outfitters in Greenville, SC. Dapper Ink is located at 207 Wade Hampton Boulevard. Hope you can come by and see what I've been up too! (Click image to view larger.)

Upcoming Exhibition

2011-01-13T08:00:00.002-05:00

Spent all of today framing. Thanks to AR for helping with (more like single-handedly building) the frames. These are pieces I've posted on this blog before, but I feel the larger frames make them look much more regal. These will be in my exhibition at the end of the month. What's that? Yes, I will be having my graduate thesis exhibition the last week in January! Stay tuned for details about when and where you can see more of my work.

Choose Your Adventure

2011-01-12T08:00:00.055-05:00

Have you discovered Notventures yet? I love keeping up with the latest from around the world on this site (a division of Notcot). New adventures, cultures, events, traditions and other magic are added each day. Follow this site/blog and start planning your next world adventure!

A favorite post of mine is the Operation Window Seat series. For those who treasure the view from the sky as I do, check out these inspiring entries.

How gorgeous are these shots? It's enough to make ya wanna break the no-electronics during take-off rule! Next time... next time...
Here is my own take on Operation Window Seat :: CLT-LAX
The Grand Canyon and an anonymous set of snowy peaks

Dimensional Type

2011-01-11T08:00:00.002-05:00

Lately I've been sewing up a lot of these typographic pillows. I first was inspired to create these in my typography class this fall, but since the class has finished I've stitched up a bunch more! The goal of the class project was to use typography in a three dimensional way. We get so accustomed to seeing type on a page, but it is a blast to bring those characters into our environment in a three dimensional way!

Wouldn't these be so cute on your bed as an accent or in a designer's office? Use 'em to add a graphic accent to any spot in your life!

Greenville Poinsettia Christmas Parade 2010

2011-01-10T08:00:00.003-05:00

Our completed float was debuted on Main Street downtown Greenville, SC at the Greenville Poinsettia Christmas Parade. The parade officials awarded us the Joel Poinsett Best Overall award!

Thanks to my adorable friends for riding along on the float with me. (It was freezing!) Love you guys :)

photo credits :: photo 2 - this flicker stream :: photo 3 and 4 - The Collegian

The Making Of (continued)

2011-01-09T08:00:00.017-05:00

A lot of the work on our float was assembled at our office, but in order to start building the final version we trucked everything to a weld shop/warehouse off campus. At this location we attached all the elements to our float bed.

Our float is a trailer with a wooden stage built on top. The pear tree, swans, drum, geese and golden rings were attached to this base using screws, foam sealant and wire. Every empty crack was desperately packed to the brim with hot glue.

photo credit :: photo 3 - Philip Eoute

The Making Of

2011-01-08T10:31:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! It has been a while since I've written. There certainly is a lot to recap. This past year (2010) I was able to play a big part in the designing of a float for the Greenville Poinsettia Christmas Parade. The university I work for enters a float in this parade every year, and this year I was able to be a part of the team. The theme of the 2010 Poinsettia parade was The Twelve Days of Christmas.

I drew inspiration from the Scandinavian style of artists such as Sanna Annukka as well as a visit to Disney's It's A Small World in May 2010. I tried to incorporate the graphic simplicity of this geometrical style. The first step was to sketch and vectorize each character/element of the float. (Check out my earlier post for a peak at what these creatures looked like in the early stages.) The vector design was used by my fabulously skillful boss to create a 3-D version in Google Sketch-Up.
Our float mocked up in Google Sketch-Up

The shapes were cut from 4-inch Styrofoam. These pieces were covered with petal paper. We used more hot glue sticks than I want to remember, and everyone involved burned themselves enough to last us til next year. (Wanna see my scars?)
French Hen cut from 4-inch Styrofoam

Swan-a-swimming decked in petal paper. Iridescent and black

Air Mail

2010-11-10T14:45:00.000-05:00

I picked up these stylish stamps at a local flea market last spring. I love the graphic simplicity of the design. I don't collect stamps, but always enjoy picking mine out at the post office! With minimal research I was able to find a fabulous pictorial history of the U.S. Air Mail stamp on Wikipedia covering stamps as early as 1918. Some samples from the 50s and 60s are below.

Musical Pattern

2010-11-09T14:14:00.000-05:00

I enjoy creating simple illustrations that appear to be inked by hand. I'm working on a series of musical instruments and assembled my sketches into a pattern. Which is your favorite? What instrument would you like to see?

Madebyjulene

2010-11-08T18:42:00.000-05:00

Lovely papercuts by Julene Harrison. In my search for dimensional inspirational typography this evening, I discovered this artist and had to share!

Motion Typography Update

2010-11-06T13:39:00.000-04:00

I shared the poem, i carry your heart by e. e. cummings with you a few posts ago, and now I am back to share a photo update of how the project is coming. I decided to express the poem as a card with movable panels and parts. The project is complete now and I'll be posting the final photos soon!

The photos below show the card, which was designed in one piece, unfolded, and partially folded.

Winsor & Newton Calligraphy

2010-11-05T17:34:00.000-04:00

Check out this vintage Winsor & Newton calligraphy packaging. The cute little illustrations are my favorite part. I'm looking forward to breaking out my pens again (it's been more than a year) and trying these fun colors out. I'm especially wanting to dip into the metallic silver!

Sneak Peek

2010-10-22T13:39:00.000-04:00

Here is a sneak peek of a fun new project I'm working on.

Autumn Scarf Tutorial

2010-10-21T09:16:00.000-04:00

Check out my guest post today on the Yellow Elm Blog.
It's all about ways to wrap up for fall!
(Photo Cred: Anthropologie :: Shrewd Stitches Stole)

i carry your heart with me

2010-10-20T13:45:00.000-04:00

Inspiration for my next project: Motion Typography

i carry your heart with me by e. e. cummings

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

Calista Finished

2010-10-18T18:01:00.000-04:00

Lemon Meringue + Campfire

2010-10-18T08:36:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I was camping with a few friends and they shared this fabulous recipe for Lemon Meringue Pies that can be made over an open flame. So if you're all s'mored out this fall, give these gems a try. They're super easy and beyond tasty! All you need are marshmallows, lemon pie filling (canned works great) and frozen crescent rolls. You will also want to pick up a pie iron.
Fill the pie iron with dough

Add lemon and marshmallows to fill up the pie

Toast and enjoy!

Calista

2010-10-07T14:46:00.000-04:00

Here is a sneak peek of a brand new typeface designed by... me!
This face is based on a hand lettered sketch I drew for my niece Calista Celine. It has a sunny, casual quality that would be great for display typesetting. The entire face is still in progress (so far I have 26 lowercase letter forms completed). Hope to have more coming soon!

IKEA Cookbook :: Hembakat är Bäst

2010-09-30T10:10:00.000-04:00

Keep an eye out for the IKEA Cookbook :: Homemade is Best. I like the new spin on recipe illustrations IKEA came up with. This approach is the kind of thing that would sell me on the book even if I knew nothing about the recipes. (Photos styled by Evelina Bratell and shot by Carl Kleiner)

Chunky Beads

2010-09-29T13:57:00.000-04:00

I have been noticing chunky beads in a few looks this fall.
I think I like it.

(Photo Credit: Where the Lovely Things Are | YanniCreations | Zasra)

Yellow Elm Feature

2010-09-22T09:26:00.000-04:00

Head over to Yellow Elm and check out my guest blog about papercut illustrations!

Pie Season

2010-09-08T11:51:00.000-04:00

For Labor Day I said goodbye to Summer by taking my last (or maybe not) swim and welcomed the approach of Autumn with a homemade apple pie. I love crafting pies with lattice tops and scalloped edges (sorry I forgot to take a picture of mine to share). In the spirit of what I consider pie season here are some gorgeous inspirational pie ideas. Don't you just adore the Pie Pops below by Bakerella?

Also Pie in a Jar from Our Best Bites is sooo cute! Must try these soon.

Plus, check out Martha Stewart's Making Decorative Piecrusts article for more ideas.

Frazee Communications Package

2010-09-07T08:41:00.000-04:00

Along with the Frazee Dream Center materials from earlier posts I developed a communications package including letterhead, envelopes and business cards.

Indie Craft Parade

2010-09-06T12:48:00.000-04:00

Be sure to check out the Indie Craft Parade this weekend in Greenville, SC. Don't miss Christin O'Bryan's gorgeous handmade books or Elizabeth Blanton's lovely handmade wearable accessories!

Frazee on Facebook

2010-08-31T10:16:00.000-04:00

For Frazee Dream Center's Facebook presence I created this profile identity. The icon and logotype were arranged to accommodate Facebook's layout, but can still be quickly associated with the Frazee identity at a glance. If you are in the Greenville area check out their page for volunteer opportunities and other ways you can help the Center!

Frazee Dream Center

2010-08-31T08:27:00.001-04:00

This summer I developed a logo for the Frazee Dream Center in West Greenville, South Carolina. I wanted the design to reflect the Center's mission to guide children in character, academics and emotional wellness.

Since 2006 the Frazee Dream Center has purposed to make a
difference in their community. Their slogan, “Life is looking
up”, captures not only the Center’s own desire, but also
describes their engagement of under resourced children in
activities and learning that lead them to look beyond what is
and to dream of what could be. The Dream Center’s presence
offers stability for many neighborhood children, providing
safe and fun after school programs. This mark reflects the
slogan, “Life is looking up”, with the use of clouds. The clouds
represent the dreams and possibilities and are positioned
above the foundation of the Frazee Dream Center’s name. The
colors used also underscore the center’s mission using blue
reflecting dreams and looking up and black providing the
foundation. It is safe to look up when life’s foundation is stable.

BE Tour of America 2010

2010-08-21T15:34:00.000-04:00

This summer Bare Minerals is Touring the US to educate consumers about their products. A friend and I were lucky enough to run into the Bare Minerals team in Boulder last week on their first stop of the West Coast tour. We were offered free samples and a complimentary make-under! Who could say no to that?

And who can say no to the cute make over van?!

Our new friend Deborah customized our looks while explaining her product's benefits and features.

The Bare Minerals team has created a well designed, interactive experience to reach their market. Attractive design, knowledgeable makeup artists and a great product have me convinced! To learn more about the tour or the products visit bareescentuals.com.

Deluxe Burger

2010-08-18T07:50:00.000-04:00

Check out this super cute burger stop on East Colfax Ave. in Denver! After founding two Denver restaurants (Deluxe and Delite), chef Dylan Moore opened Deluxe Burger in order to satisfy the market for "gourmet comfort foods in a casual environment". Deluxe Burger boasts an exciting menu served up with outstanding design. If you're in the area be sure to stop in and try it out!

Deluxe Burger shares its space with an inviting mid century modern home shop, Mod Livin'.

Say yes to the vintage-y orange fridge as well as the brilliantly basic packaging design! I got my scraps to go just so I could carry out the fabulous sack.

The Denver Burger and Lemonade with a tint of mint!

BBQ Burger

The web design keeps up the retro orange look established in the restaurant.

If you are as impressed with Dylan Moore as I am you'll want to know what he's up to next! Check out the fabulous Deluxe Street Food concept Moore is pursuing and keep an eye out for the truck if you're in the Denver, CO area.

Denver on Design

2010-08-17T07:52:00.000-04:00

A few shots from my week in Denver.

Lots of inspiration to motivate my return to work...

Matthew Brannon | Last to Know | Denver Art Museum

Chautauqua Park | Boulder, CO

Lawrence Argent | I See What You Mean | Denver, CO

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater | Morrison, CO

Vacation with Vera

2010-08-12T22:14:00.000-04:00

I'm heading out for summer vacation this week (It's finally here!) and I don't like to travel without my Vera Bradley. The colors are so cheery and the chances of losing your bag on the airline carousel are drastically reduced with one of these lovelies. Vera gets a bum rap as a grandma bag but I think it's really quite fun! Don't get me wrong. I'm not suggesting you wear these around town everyday, but why not brighten your luggage?

I like to mix it up with different patterns for each piece but a complete set also makes an upbeat statement. I'm leaving for Denver with my Vera duffle, cosmetic case and wallet. Wish me luck and enjoy the gorgeous patterns gathered below. What's your pattern? (Images: VeraBradley.com)

Above Clockwise: All in One Wristlet $32 | Large Duffel $80 | Beach Towel $30 | Umbrella $28 | Zip-Around Wallet $38 || Patterns (left to right): Daisy Daisy, Paprika, Sittin in a Tree, Raspberry Fizz, Night Owl, Bali Gold

Long Live Vintage

2010-08-05T08:00:00.032-04:00

Fossil's Long Live Art Series is a collaboration including the Fossil team and four artists. The featured artists: Dolan Geiman, Paige Russell, Hatch Show Print and Yellow Owl workshop, "[were] asked to create one original work using their favorite media that illustrates what Long Live Vintage means to them."

What I liked in particular this morning were the desktop decorations each artist made available! I chose Dolan Geiman's yellow bird. Check out these vintage downloads to inspire your workspace and Get yours here!

French Practice!

2010-08-04T08:31:00.004-04:00

This week some friends and I enjoyed movie night with Les Parapluie de Cherbourg (1964). This is a delightful French musical that I would recommend to anyone. So while I'm recommending French movies... I wanted to pass along a few more in case your French is getting as rusty (or nonexistent) as mine!

Amelie (2001) would be a fabulous date night pick. The scenery and quirky scenarios made me watch this one two times in a row. You cannot resist falling in love with Audrey Tautou in this charming classic.

If you're looking for a thrill and intrigue La Moustache (2005) will have you scratching your head at the end... and probably throughout the entire rest of the film as well. Vincent Lindon stars in this strange twister.

Next up I am recommending The Chorus (2004). Who doesn't want to see the unloved boys of this world find their place through the guidance of a caring teacher? *Tear* I need to watch this again myself! Movie night anyone?

Want something a little more current? Coco Before Chanel was released in 2009. It is inspiring to watch our heroine struggle through her early life and still create one of the worlds best loved brands. Our dear friend Audrey Tautou makes another stunning appearance in this film playing the part of Chanel.

What French (or foreign) films do you recommend?

Illustration Update

2010-07-30T06:00:00.001-04:00

I realized this morning that I have not yet posted the final version of my Hickory Dickory Dock illustration. I shared a sneak peek earlier this year but now I am finally following up with photos of the final product. This is my favorite illustration of the series (4 so far). I like how the clock details turned out and want to try an even more complicated design next time.

Musical Book Cover

2010-07-29T06:00:00.001-04:00

It has been a while since I have shared anything from work. Here is an early version of a book cover I have been working on this week. The client asked for a few changes so the final version doesn't look anything like this, but I prefer the color and texture of this one!

Pretty Passports

2010-07-28T08:08:00.000-04:00

A friend and I are planning a trip to Europe for next year and a crucial part of the planning process includes finding the absolute cutest passport cover possible. I have my eye on this Map of Paris holder from Amazon:

If you are looking for something simpler, these sleek Amerileather holders come in too cute colors:

Or try a handmade find like this In Touch Clutch:

Giveaway at Yellow Elm

2010-07-28T07:29:00.004-04:00

This week my beautiful and talented friends over at Yellow Elm are giving away the cutest candles handmade by Susanna Hindman of Candela Poeta. These candles are sure to add a fun hand-crafted touch to any tablescape. Be sure to run by their blog and enter to win!

French Posters

2010-06-23T21:13:00.000-04:00

I can get really excited about vintage French posters. This weekend I came across this booth at the Main Street Antique Show in Hendersonville, NC. South Pointe Gallery, out of Key West, acquires their pieces in fabulous condition from auctions and estates. All I had was my phone so I snapped a few phone pics (please excuse the low resolution).

Do You Play?

2010-06-11T07:17:00.011-04:00

A recent flyer and poster I designed informing new students of available jobs as piano accompanists.

Wedding Letterpress

2010-05-31T19:35:00.000-04:00

This weekend my cousin married a fabulous guy. To commemorate the date I created this letterpress print using wood block type and a rainbow roll in her wedding colors. Congratulations Ivy and Trevor. I love you guys!

Final Illustration Project, Part 1

2010-04-29T18:36:00.000-04:00

A papercut piece to illustrate another Mother Goose Rhyme:
Bow-wow-wow!
Whose dog art thou?
Little Tom Tinker's dog,
Bow-wow-wow!

Roadside Projects

2010-04-27T18:07:00.001-04:00

I first came across Jayme McGowan when seeking inspiration for my own papercut illustrations. Whereas my pieces are monochromatic, McGowan's work is colorful, free and full of whimsy. Check out her blog, Roadside Projects.

Today I stumbled into Poketo, who carries her art in the form of wallets. I love the one below!

Illustration Update

2010-04-20T18:32:00.000-04:00

To continue my series of papercut illustrations, I am now working on my third piece which features another Mother Goose Rhyme. Here is a sneak peek:

Men's Glee Club

2010-04-19T19:34:00.000-04:00

Flea Market Finds

2010-04-15T22:22:00.000-04:00

This Wednesday friends and I spent the morning at the Pickens County Flea Market. There were plenty of treasures to be had, but I just brought home two vintage postcards. I hope to share those in a later post, but for now enjoy this typography. These numerals came from a car lot. I wasn't ready to buy, but enjoyed snapping these images on my phone.

Poster Progression

2010-04-07T07:12:00.001-04:00

Here's a concert poster I have been putting together at work for the last few days. There is progression in the look, but the elements of each one still remain similar to the posters proceeding it. I won't tell you which one the client chose... which is your favorite?

Little Jumping Joan

2010-03-31T21:28:00.000-04:00

It is about time for another illustration update, yeah?! Well here it is: Little Jumping Joan. This piece originated as a humble sketch and developed into this layered hand cut paper-cut piece. I'm obsessed with monochromatics right now (should probably branch out) but with enough shadows to add contrast it works! The Mother Goose Rhyme was my inspiration:

Here am I, little jumping Joan;
When nobody's with me,
I'm always alone.

Pepsi-Cola Print

2010-03-12T16:50:00.001-05:00

After experimenting with the printing blocks and wood type earlier this week, I chose the Pepsi-Cola symbol to create a new print. Its broad strokes of type fit well with the 96 point wooden type I have access to. I had fun designing and arranging the placement of the symbols, numbers, letters and logo. Woven throughout is the year Pepsi was founded as well as round shapes suggesting carbonation bubbles. Comments and suggestions are welcome!

Just for fun, for now

2010-03-08T22:54:00.000-05:00

I had fun playing around tonight with the blocks I mentioned in an earlier post. For now I am testing impressions and experimenting with these logos and seals, but as I worked tonight a few ideas started to sprout. I'm going to pursue them and hope something wonderful comes of it! Here are the "Just for fun" prints I got tonight. Thanks again to my fab dad who supplied the vintage blocks!

Experimentation Continues

2010-03-06T19:33:00.002-05:00

More letterpress experimentation. Larger impressions this time. Bold typeface.

March 2010

2010-03-04T16:05:00.001-05:00

I cannot lie to you. The Anthropologie catalog is for sure a highlight of the month for me. Each issue offers a wealth of inspiration, so I eagerly anticipate its arrival. March did not disappoint. This month's catalog incorporates paper cut art that has me itching to break out my x-acto knife! See for yourself:

These photos aren't the best so check out Anthro's site. I'm sorry I could not find any artist credit information, but perhaps it was just the catalog's extremely talented staff.
Also check out this cute video.

"Great design demonstrates."

2010-03-03T16:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was able to hear Bryan Martin of Good Egg Studio talk a bit about his work. Bryan has had the chance to work with companies such as the Creation Museum, St. Francis Hospital, and Palmetto Family. While discussing his past projects, Bryan encouraged young designers to design with a meaning and communicate in a way that makes people want to listen. Brian was recognized in this month's issue of HOW Magazine for his work on the St. Francis Hospital's Happy in Greenville site. This site is an interactive example of the illustration Bryan has incorporated into his work. Visit Good Egg Studio's site to see his enjoyable portfolio.

The Birds by William Blake

2010-02-24T17:25:00.000-05:00

I am continuing my letterpress experimentation by creating a series of bird themed works. The next piece I hand set is The Birds. Here is a photo of the galley. I found one spelling error (A 'b' instead of a 'd'. It is easy to mix these up since everything is backwards!), but other than that it is ready to be printed. This piece was a great deal easier to set since it did not incorporate a curved margin!

The Wizard Complete

2010-02-22T17:29:00.001-05:00

Here is the final version (or at least the version I am turning in for class). I feel like "Asleep in the Poppies" is the more successful piece of the two, but there is strength in numbers! I started with thumbnails, scanned and refined those into large sketches, which were painted with gouache to reach an Art Nouveau, painterly feel. The gouache lines were scanned and used as a basis for my Illustrator drawing. Once the lines were digitized, I sparsely blocked in areas of color. The title was hand drawn and vectorized. I'm especially excited about the "Oz" bit. These two are being printed on Watercolor paper. The End! (Finished size: 16"x30")

Thread + Ink

2010-02-21T09:04:00.004-05:00

After multiple prints, much adjusting and tightening to the type set in the galley and more printing, I got a decent print. From there a bird design was stitched into the print with embroidery floss. I may still add more detail to the bird, but for now, here are up-close views to give you an idea of the materiality.

Famille Summerbelle

2010-02-18T17:05:00.001-05:00

I just can't seem to get enough hand cut paper. It is so beautiful and the technique comes with a rich history. I will attempt to create one of my own someday soon. Until then, check out Famille Summerbelle.

Olympic Projection

2010-02-12T23:29:00.001-05:00

I appreciate the dynamic projection and three-dimensional surfaces used in the 2010 Winter Olympic opening ceremony. This ceremony inspired me to think beyond traditional means of displaying design. (P.S. Love the logo!)

Thank You Gutenberg

2010-02-12T00:43:00.000-05:00

I think we should all take a moment and thank Mr. Gutenberg for the time and pain he put in to the craft of letterpress. I never knew how much I admired this guy, until I spent 5 hours bent over a case of 10 point Stymie Light and a galley. It wears you down, but it is rewarding to see that you've built a body of text (in reverse) with all your effort. The photo above shows 32 lines of type set against a curved piece of cedar. I am hoping to finish securing the sorts tomorrow and try a print. Stay tuned!

Elisabeth Lecourt

2010-02-07T17:57:00.002-05:00

Fasciolariidae | Great Britain map

Four hours | Great Britain map

Ovuliidae | Paris map

Oz Update

2010-02-06T16:13:00.000-05:00

It is time for an illustration update! Since posting the thumbnails I have been drawing and refining the drawings for these large poster size illustrations. The stage shown above is the basic sketch with lines inked in gouache. I like the contrast of thick and thin supplied by the brush and ink, but need to refine each part so it works nicely with the whole. Next step: Color!

Letterpress on the Horizon

2010-02-05T15:18:00.001-05:00

For an upcoming project I will be experimenting with letterpress typesetting. I have done no letterpress printing so far in my life so everything will be new. My completely cool dad has given me permission to try out these blocks, which he came across in his wanderings. I'll post results... if I can figure out the process! (The blocks above include: Rolls Royce, Greenville Country Club, FTD, Virginia Military Institute, Mack, The Greenville News, Pontiac, the South Carolina State Seal, American Legion, Pepsi-Cola and the US National League.)

Drawing Dorothy

2010-02-04T16:42:00.001-05:00

I am enrolled in an illustration class this semester. I was surprised at my own enthusiasm going into my first project! Above are a few inspiration sketches. The project will consist of two illustrations depicting scenes from the Wizard of Oz. I'm looking forward to seeing how the comps and final renderings turn out. Check back for a post of the completed illustration!

Yellow Elm Giveaway

2010-02-01T10:11:00.000-05:00

Check out the charming, hand-made elegance of Yellow Elm. These girls are talented artist as well as very good friends. Be sure to enter the Be Mine! Giveaway. Browse their etsy shop or if you have something particular in mind, they can make you a custom piece to match that special outfit!

Timothy Banks Illustration

2010-01-29T10:53:00.000-05:00

Just got off the phone with Timothy Banks Illustration. Above is an excerpt from Banks' Bird Chronicles. We were able to talk about how he got started, his inspiration and current work. I will be compiling my findings into a paper (to be completed before March 1st!) so check back for more details on this amazingly talented artist!

Singer

2010-01-26T18:24:00.005-05:00

I started, at the end of 2009, an exploration in hand stitched designs. I loved how my Wedding Invitations turned out, but the amount of hours put into stitching each stitch isn't practical for mass production. (Can you imagine a bride ordering 500 of those?! I would curl up and cry.) This year I wanted to continue my exploration into this facet of design, but needed to research alternatives to the embroidery needle and thread (at the very least, for the sake of my poor bruised fingers). I considered creating one piece then scanning the design and producing multiples that way or using a quality varnish or embossing job, but both of those ideas strayed away from the whole point of the piece: that it was Hand Stitched! and had actual threads of colorful embroidery floss worked in! So I went on the hunt for a sewing machine. My mother's machine is dated which does not rule a machine out... but it has 'tension' issues, and those of you who have tension issues of your own understand the machine needs a break. Thankfully my dad came across a 1951 Singer Featherweight in his explorations and graciously allowed me to use it on this project! It still runs like a dream 59 (yes I am shocked too!) years later. (I wonder what wonderful things have been crafted on this sewing table... if needles could talk!) I am thankful beyond words to him for his generosity and cannot wait to experiment and share my findings with you all here.

Preservation through Production: An Evening with Hatch Show Print

2010-01-19T21:31:00.003-05:00

Tonight I had the exciting opportunity to attend Jim Sherraden’s lecture on the history and process of Hatch Show Print at the Westin Poinsett Hotel in Greenville, SC. Hatch is a non-profit working museum affiliated with the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee. The shop, founded in 1879, has adopted a motto: “Preservation through production”. This historic shop continues to use only the original wood block type in their designs, supplemented here and there with current woodblock or linoleum cut designs. Hatch Show Print does not strive to recreate historic posters that are now rare or completely lost, nor does it search out vintage copies of printed show posters on Ebay or antique outlets. Rather, they are interested in keeping history alive by using the Hatch brothers original hand carved block in today’s context. Originally typesetting traveling tour posters for Grand Ole Opry stars, Hatch’s more recent clientele consists of Pearl Jam, the Beastie Boys, REM, Coldplay, Mylie Cyrus and many other contemporary artists. Currently B.B. King and Willie Nelson are Hatch’s largest clients. Companies such as Pixar and CNN have also commissioned work with Hatch. Below are some images from the evening: the presentation, the beautiful historic Poinsett Hotel, tasty food, posters I secured at the beginning of the evening and my charming companions! (See more Hatch posters.)

Mr. Sherraden stressed that with these prints the Designer is the Printer and the Printer is the Designer.
If you can't make it to Nashville, then catch the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition.

Patch Prints

2010-01-18T19:07:00.000-05:00

Last year for Christmas a friend purchased a gorgeous sketch book for me. The design used old entries from bird encyclopedias and bold floral patterns painted on top. Knowing my love for birds my adorable friend secured the perfect gift for me! As I read through the info in the back of my new favorite sketch book I came across Patch NYC, the makers of the book. Check out their website. I fell in love the moment I saw their prints. I'm including some inspirational photos from the site below.

The talented duo that is Patch NYC has recently started a line exclusively for everyone's favorite Anthropologie. Below is a sampling of what they came up with to blow our minds further.

1920s Constantinople

2010-01-17T14:38:00.001-05:00

Step back 90 years into the charm of Constantinople (now Istanbul). This set of prints offers a window into the everyday culture of Turkey. Scenes depicting marketplace transactions and street entertainers are set against the breathtaking backdrop of Justinian's 6th century Hagia Sophia. The warm tones, animated expressions and body language of each figure and the ability of each work to communicate a story is an inspiration to illustrators. Each piece is marked "Constantinople 1920" on the front and on the back with a number ranging 1-30. The illustrations are rendered in what appears to be an opaque watercolor or gouache. It is a unique pleasure to come across such a broad collection of illustrations this old!

Gorodets

2010-01-13T18:21:00.001-05:00

A beautiful new typeface from myfonts.com! Gorodets is extracted from Russian folk art. Designed by Alexandra Korolkova, Gorodets provides a whimsical tool for designers. Below is a sampling from the glyphs. This face provides filled designs for capitals and negative space designs for the lowercase glyphs. The above images are posters designed by John Collins.

Chamber Strings Illustration

2010-01-12T22:29:00.004-05:00

This poster/invitation was designed for two string recitals coming up in February. I have had a few chances at my current job to work hand drawn vector illustrations into my pieces. Here I created this simple cello by sketching the lines in pencil then drawing vectors over top in Ai for a smooth but still hand done look.

Not so Elementary

2010-01-09T22:54:00.003-05:00

I never was a Sherlock Holmes follower. I have only read the tales required in high school English classes... The Hound of the Baskervilles and another title about a red something or other. Despite my relative cluelessness about the detective, I am a huge fan of the art created for the recently released Sherlock Holmes. This almost makes me want to pick up a pencil and draw something... I may just do it!

Ebelskivers? Yum!

2010-01-07T21:00:00.002-05:00

Mmm, these look so tasty and fun to make. The process looks simple enough and would be fun to try with friends or kids. I have not invested in the equipment yet, but have enjoyed adoring the mouth-watering photos at Williams-Sonoma.com. Ebelskivers are a danish pancake-like pastry with a center of gooey wonder! Fill it with anything you like. Williams-Sonoma suggests chocolate, peanut butter, fruit, jam... so good :) Bon Appetit!

Creative Mapping

2010-01-07T20:40:00.005-05:00

These canvases were designed in 2009 on a flight to and from Santa Ana, California. I used historic maps of neighborhoods, city buildings and coastlines from around the world to get a wide variety of shapes. I can see these hanging on the wall in my sister's home in California. I'm sure the sunny culture of SoCal inspired my bright colors and bold shape choices. In my search for a new approach to maps, I found a helpful episode of This American Life :: 110: Mapping.

Pre-college Exhibit

2010-01-07T19:15:00.002-05:00

This piece was created for a graduate class, Principles of Art Composition, as a final project. It is based on the principles of Dynamic Symmetry as taught by Jay Hambidge. Hambidge stressed the importance of dynamic rectangles and their harmonic subdivisions. The color poster and black and white flyer both use a Root 5 rectangle and promote the Pre-college Art Exhibition held by Bob Jones Elementary School, Junior High and Academy. (The exhibition actually begins February 1st despite the dates on the poster.)

Jim Sherraden of Hatch Show Print

2010-01-05T19:43:00.003-05:00

January 19th, 2010 come hear Jim Sherraden speak on the process, equipment and history of Hatch Show Print in Nashville, TN. This event is sponsored by the Advertising Federation of Greenville at the Poinsett Hotel downtown Greenville, SC. Register here.

Artsy Personality

2009-12-23T17:52:00.003-05:00

Sarah Faulkner is a painter and wood and metal worker. Her work captures the bright whimsey of America's South. Take a moment to draw inspiration from her work.

Pantone Wedding

2009-12-23T09:52:00.002-05:00

For the designer who already has everything else!
Pantone Weddings by The Dessy Group

Home to You

2009-12-23T09:38:00.002-05:00

Today I am featuring the Peasall Sisters Home to You album, not just because of the enchanting harmonies these girls bring to the old fashion tunes, but because of the folksy album art. The design was created by Brezinka Design Co. The faded photos, hand lettered type and old timey color palate fit the Peasall's music genre perfectly. As I perused Brazinka's site I was impressed with the hand lettering and was taken with his illustrations. Check out the site, blog, and the Peasall Sisters Home to You CD to see more of this lovely work.

Artsy Personality

2009-12-22T19:36:00.004-05:00

Marcy Gaudin- Bourgeois of Eclectic Orchid

Marcy assembles beautiful accessories from fabric and jewelry.

Must See

2009-12-22T19:23:00.002-05:00

The Craft and Folk Art Museum in California is a great place to visit for new inspiration and a glimpse of world crafts. Check the hours before you go! I was unfortunate enough to find myself outside the 5814 Wilshire Boulevard shop on a Monday... they were closed. The building fits right in with the shops crafty vibe, and wide store front windows allow passers by a peek inside. Hours: Monday: Closed; Tuesday through Friday: 11 am - 5 pm; Saturday & Sunday: 12 pm - 6 pm

Make One

2009-12-22T18:22:00.003-05:00

Over the past year I have been working on bottle cap magnet collages. I first saw this idea in a cute boutique where bottle caps were used as frames for photos from magazines. I wanted to take it a step further by creating decorative collages using paper, jewelry, buttons, etc. The composition is placed in a bottle cap and the cavity is filled with clear resin.

This set was created for a friend whose kitchen is teal with red accents.

As the resin hardened on this Canine set, the paper became blotchy. For the most part I don't like the look, but on the bulldog piece the type showing through on the reverse side adds another element of interest.

Wedding Invitation

2009-12-13T15:31:00.003-05:00

This semester's final project is a synthesis of graphic design and hand stitching. I chose to create wedding stationery (invites, reply cards, etc.) These hand created pieces would be fabulous for the crafty couple wanting to communicate their personality to each guest.

Sketches

2009-12-09T21:55:00.002-05:00

Working through ideas for a floral design that can be stitched on.

Invitation Research

2009-12-09T21:46:00.001-05:00

For my final project I am interested in creating stationery that incorporates both graphic design and hand done elements. So many have done it well. Below are just a few.

1) Fields | Elum 2) Thrive | Bella Figura 3) Clover | Moontree Letterpress 4) Greenwich Letterpress 5) Roseberry | Dauphine Press

Installation Up!

2009-12-01T23:59:00.001-05:00

The final steps were taken today to complete the installation. The following photos recount the process.

So many thanks to Chris for helping me make my sketches a reality. Thank you Chris!

Applying vinyl

To my delight, the vinyl didn't give us any trouble about sticking to the textured tile surface.

The project was designed to be viewed from a specific location. The type will align correctly if you step on my feet indicators. However, you may need to shuffle forward or back if you are especially short or tall :) Come by the Sargent Art Building at BJU to check out the installation and the Mid-Year Exhibition!