Sunday 28 April 2013

March : Beginning

February, March, January


This months subject of choice is 'Beginning' and was chosen by the lovely Alex.  What a challenge!  The subjects you've seen for January and February were quite open not too vague - whereas this is both!  So much scope for directions and ideas, it was tricky to know where to start.


I put my head down and worked hard on this.  I haven't done that much botanical work and certainly not in screen printing, so I was keen to play on the 'beginning' of Spring.  The plan was to make use of Spring buds, but as my idea formed I could only see it as more of a 'frame' than an actual image.  I then had a good ol' chat to my sister and she suggested the New Zealand fern!  Brilliant.  I then check out my paper and decided I could brave a two colour job that wouldn't jump around as much as previously, and developed the illustration for print from there.


The fern represents new beginnings, new life.  But more than that as I went travelling in New Zealand in 2010, such a gorgeous country, loads of wildlife and stunning scenery.  When you're travelling, there are constantly new beginnings - friendships, trips, experiences - the list goes on.  So this print is to remind us that there is always a new beginning where ever we go.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this piece and the project so far, so spare a moment and leave a comment - thank you!

Friday 26 April 2013

The Gifted Magpie

A gorgeous shop in Faringdon, Oxfordshire has just opened and the lovely Rachel has asked if she can stock my handmade cards, illustrated pocket mirrors and even a few copies of my 'Amazing Folding Book'.


 My little pocket mirrors and cards out on display in the shop!


I've been to Oxford numerous times and always enjoy the drive there, through gorgeous English countryside.  So having to venture past Oxford was a definite plus - more adventures!  I drove through and past so many quirkily named towns and roads, picturesque scenery and plenty of animals too.  Faringdon itself looks like a great place, lovely buildings and small streets.  A great place to visit for a day out - nice drive there, walk around, stop for tea and cake or a spot of lunch and then tell all of your friends about it by sending a card from 'Morning Mr Magpie'.

If this is near you and you get a chance to visit, leave me a comment and let me know!  I'd love to hear what you thought of the place too.

Sunday 7 April 2013

Illustrated Homes Part 2




You can find 'Part 1' here.  This is the second commission I got from the April House Coffee Morning last October, which you can read about here.

This is such a gorgeous house, it really was a pleasure to illustrate.  If you follow my Untapped Cities illustrations, you will of seen my love of bricks shining though!  My use of perspective was really put to the test, which was good - it needed it.