Saturday, March 16, 2013

finally available: 4 new books!

Last summer I made art for four new Duopress titles which, in recent days, finally became available in bookstores: Chicago Baby, Doodle Texas, Doodle Washington DC, and Beach Doodles.

Last spring, I'll admit, I was a little nervous about the work load. I lined up a bunch of interns to help, and decided to share one of the assignments—Beach Doodles (a SUPER cute book, written by Puck)—with my friend and former student, Paige Garrison.

I *painted* the illustrations for Chicago Baby (written by Jerome Pohlen—it's absolutely adorable), a process that was lots of fun, and quicker than my usual routine. The break from Photoshop was refreshing. Listening to Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash while inking Doodle Texas (also written by Jerome) was relaxing, and oh-so-very TEXAS. What's not to like, y'all? I've been pining for cowboy boots ever since.

Doodle Washington DC (written by the prolific and lovely Laura Krauss Mehlmed) is a very classy book and I'm proud to be a part of it. Meanwhile my son has discovered John Philip Sousa, his new favorite composer; between the marches and the red, white and blue book, I've never felt more American.

All of the work finished itself, despite my family's last-minute decision to MOVE a thousand miles in August. And at this moment Team Duopress is finishing up another work season, for which I illustrated FIVE books—not four—and this time, without sharing any assignments. It just never pays to worry. 
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Paige: I will send you a box of books as soon as I can get out of this studio. This week, I promise. Same for you, Elizabeth and Melissa (my wonderful interns). Be watching for packages from me!

Sunday, March 10, 2013

mail me art

I have this amazing friend in the UK named Darren Di Lieto, who has devoted a large part of his life to the cause of illustration. Periodically, Darren (founder of Hire an Illustrator! and The Little Chimp Society) organizes an exhibition of work that is literally sent through the mail—the envelopes are the canvases. 

The event became so popular (i.e. so much work to organize) that, after some time off, the Mail Me Art exhibit is back in a new format: by invitation. I am super excited to be included in this year's show. 

'Mail Me Art: Short & Sweet' will be at The Framers Gallery in London from 30th July - 3rd August 2013. All proceeds will benefit charity.

My entry, seen above, is probably still somewhere between New York and London. Why the shoes? It's a secret for now, but I'll tell you soon enough. Meanwhile, join me in thinking happy thoughts of my 6" x 9" manilla envelope completing it's journey and arriving safely, and in time for the exhibit.

Read more, here.