the moustached rhino

My New Website!!!!

2011-04-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

Goodbye Moustached Rhino, I will miss ya. I'm packing my bags and moving to a grown up site, away from my blog, titled a few years ago when I was obsessed with the 'stache. Come and visit!

If you're reading this close to the posted date, my site is still in the process of being built. My super skilled cousin, Benny Schmidt is rocking' it out as I type. So, stay tuned...

http://www.tuesdayschmidt.com/

html love

2011-03-29T06:32:00.000-07:00

Whooweeee! Yeah, I know "blah, blah, blah....busy." Well, tis true. But, I've been making lotsa stuff. And all of it is half finished...and all over the place. One big project is getting my damn website up and going. A few years behind the curve, agreed. Still, within a few weeks it will be shiney and pretty and living online. Til then, here's a little snidbit of it.

Whoooo-whooo loves ya darlin'?

2011-02-15T10:24:00.000-08:00

My sweet little hubs is obsessed with owls. He loves 'em. He's a designer too...and a lover of nature. So, he likes doodled owls or real, live owls up in trees in the yard. So, for the Val Day I made him a little picture of two owls that will love each other forever. I shoulda scanned this bad boy so the quality was better, but I photoed it with my phone before he whisked it away to work. Oopsie. The real victory in this piece is that I have been coffee-soaking paper in our bathtub for my next series of work. And guess what-that guy didn't complain one bit about a bathtub full of coffee. I am training him to be an artist's husband quite well if I do say so myself. Of course, the real belly-achin' starts when I begin pulling out waxes and epoxies...he picks his battles well.

For Baby Dietz

2011-02-14T14:13:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago our friends Dr. Rog and Nursie Cara had the prettiest baby ever. She's like this little bundle of snuggle. My husband has a baby crush on her (which I really believe is just his biological clock out of control). To announce sweet Evie's arrival into our world, I designed birth announcements. Hand-lettered and illustrated by yours truly for little baby Genevieve (pretty name, huh?). Welcome baby.

I can't help it, I can't help it!

2011-02-09T15:27:00.001-08:00

A few more pages I had fun designing. From another one of el libros de Smash. This one's the mini book. I hand-lettered a lot in this book. I love me some doodles and hand-lettering! That top one is not me letterin' though-the other are, but that lettering is by the glorious Eduardo Recife.

SMASH debut!

2011-02-07T07:59:00.000-08:00

Okay, so technically this fab new line is not out until April. But, because I'm the designer and illustrator of this new fun-ness ( I love all variations of the word "fun", even if they do not truly exist), I got my hands on the SMASH stash a little earlier than most folks. Hey, it's my blood, sweat, and tears in this okay?! I deserve an early peek! Here's an image of some of the books and products in a little photo shoot we did for the promotional catalog. A friend of mine painted that Elvis-isn't it grand?! I love it! Anyway, there are a total of 4 books being released in April-4 different designs including a doodle book, letterpress-inspired book, a pretty book, and a mod book. And I got to design all 80-pages of each. Super fun. Not to mention all the little accessories, which will slowly be debuting on the SMASH blog! Check out the sweet little video we made for the launch (you can see me in the junk drawer)! Whoowhoo!

(photo by Bobbie Huckleberry)

Don't mind if I do-a little shameless self promo.

2011-01-31T13:00:00.000-08:00

Oh man! Oh man, it's been killin' me to keep this stuff a secret. For like, the last 6 months of my life I've been working on the funnest product ever. Is "funnest" a word? Eh, if not, it definitely should be. Anyway, we created a new line of journals. But not just any-schmany journal...a journal for keeping all things inspirational. Like me for instance, I keep all kinds of junk...announcements to art openings, images of work from artists I love, different art techniques to use in my work, fabric samples, etc, etc, etc. I have kept a book like this for years and always refer to them as my "research book." I have them for lotsa stuff, the last being my wedding. And I stash them for years, because it's good stuff that I don't wanna let go of. So, my point is, we created a line of these types of journals. To encourage everyone to keep inspiration close. And we made a ton of fun accoutrements to accessorize with. Embossed metal clips with mustaches, little red and white stripey paper clips with flags attached for writing notes, a super fun date stamp that has all kinds of silly sayings like, "That warrants a fist pump." Don't act like you don't laugh at Jersey Shore-inspired slang. Please. All of this awesomeness hits stores in April. Whoop whoop! But here is my fave book I did. Designed 80-pages of little doodles. There are 6 books all together. An eco-inspired book, a letterpress inspired one, simple, mod, pretty, and this little guy, the doodle book. Here are a few of the pages I heart. And don't you worry, I'll be blabbin' about all the new product to come as we get closer to our release. Yes! Mucho fun!

Tick tock a baby clock.....

2011-01-27T14:57:00.001-08:00

Two friends of ours just had the sweetest baby girl that will ever live! A while back at her shower I made this lil clock for baby's room. Babies can't tell time, so I don't know why I always make little clocks for them, but I do. Sweet baby announcements to come!

Double Rainbow Magic!!!!!

2010-10-29T09:27:00.000-07:00

God gave us a gift...it's called "nature." Nature in itself is a miracle...so two rainbows-( a double rainbow if you will) is a double-whammie-miracle. When a double rainbow appears, God is high-fiving the angels. Or, at least, that's what I like to believe. So, for Halloween, me and my good ol' pal Kimmy performed an ode to the YouTube and Auto-Tune renditions of Double Rainbow. Yes, our Halloween performance was choreographed-and, the rainbows had a thing or two to share about the magic that is Double Rainbow.

2010 Art For Kyrie

2010-10-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

It's that time again...2010 Kyrie Foundation Art For Kyrie! Super awesome cause! Super awesome auctioned gifts! Super awesome music (Sara Swenson) and, of course, super awesome art! Some of the incredible art that will be up for auction this year includes work by Shepard Fairey, Nate Williams, Ron Berg, Maura Cluthe, Mirna Stubbs and Two Headed Beast, and many, many mas! So, what am I gettin' at? Super awesome time for super awesome cause...I mean, come on, it's a no-brainer buddies! Buuuut, because I know how busy life is...if you can't make it but want to help visit the Kyrie Foundation site or better yet, help Kyrie Foundation receive a 250K grant from Pepsi by voting! Thank you friends, it means a lot!

...and stick it in the mail. Wait, no, don't...

2010-10-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

Several months ago I designed a line for K&Company called Handmade. In the line, among many little doodles from me, was a swatchbook for fun and artsy stamps. I pulled several different styles of artwork for the book to give it a broad appeal. Many of my large format paintings were scaled down to little miniature stamps. Someone came across my artwork on a blog this morning and shot it over to me. I see my illustrated papers on etsy often, but I love this one... love the use of the stamp.

Annnnnnd, that's a wrap

2010-09-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

So, we just wrapped on yet another show. And, I claim (though doubtful) that I am on a hiatus from painting at least until the beginning of next year. I have began working on my sketches and research for my next big show. I'm super excited about it, but I have to keep it hush-hush so those close to me ( whom I've promised I would slow down and stop working so much) don't catch on. Still, I am moving at a slower pace than usual, so I think I'll call that improvement. For the last show, I showed with 9 other artists (I think?!). Awesome, fun, fabulous artists. I did 14 small pieces, which was nice after large scale stuff from Xx in July. I only sold a few at the show, but they're now flyin' off the shelf like hot cakes. I do have a few left and will be adding them to my etsy site very soonski. For all of ya that came out to the show, thanks buddies. Mucho amor.

You had me at M

2010-09-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Two hateful, hateful words: sold out. Recently came across this t-shirt (on Threadless) while wasting way too much time reading about my fave writer/director Wes Anderson. How I adore that man's brain. For two seconds I spaced off into a daydream where I time-travel back a handful of years to when he was merely a student at UT, run into him at the student union where we become immediate best friends and I replace Owen Wilson as his future writing partner. (pause 3 minutes while I continue to elaborate on said daydream). Okay, then (fast-forward, reality) I find this uh-mazing t-shirt only to get ready to order it and see they are sold out. Boo. Hiss (as the closest thing to my writing partner, Kim, would say). Devastation. Disappointment. But it still makes me happy. May order a print, though, not as fun as a t-shirt. Margot Tenenbaum for the letter M. And Steve Zissou for Z (How cute are his little nipples?! ). And (not Wes A related) the Dude for D. Awe. Some. I was Margot for halloween several years ago ya know? Had the wooden finger and everything. Mmm, makes me excited for fall, Anderson movie marathons, Royal T and Rushmore soundtracks. Coffee and scarves. Happiness.

Listen, these are good times.

2010-09-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

One day I'm gonna write a blog entry that talks about how I have nothing going on and I'm so bored. As opposed to, "I have projects up to my eyeballs." A girl can dream...but for now, projects up to my eyeballs. One is a project that has not yet come out, which I believe I've talked bout previously. I have done hundreds of designs for it, but really can't talk about what it is and when it's released. Still, some of these little parts have minds of their own and need some spotlight. So, here is a tiny, tiny tid bit. There is nothing I love more than creating characters and writing stories/personalities to embellish them with. More soon!

Long Live Ideas!!!!

2010-09-01T11:07:00.001-07:00

2010-08-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

I wonder if one day my right brain will be shot from all the exercise it gets. If my body worked as hard as it did I'd have all kinds of torn ligaments, runner's knee, probably some ACL issues up in that action. Whew. Anyway, I love working incessantly. And strangely-the harder I work, the more ideas and concepts I execute, the more inspired I become. I could complain about how exhausting it is, sure--but I love it. It's what fulfills me more so than anything. So, that being said, I am once again in between many a project. A new show opening in September and an illustration project in production/publication right now (can't share images until it gets closer to launch). BUT I realized I had not shown my work from this year's Xx show. I love that show! This year my dream gallery, Blue Gallery, hosted us. And I was so lucky to show in the company of the first artist in KC who inspired me (almost 10 years ago). We met for the first time during this show. Plus another artist who has been the rock of encouragement and support in my career, debuted her work with us. She confided to me the afternoon of the opening that she was nervous because she didn't think she was a "real" artist. However, a curator from a distinguished art museum in Kansas City purchased her work. Ahhh, to have faith in each other.

Xx Chromosome, for real this time....

2010-06-29T08:39:00.000-07:00

Heck yes! Less than one week until Xx Chromosome opens! I've seen the work and it's glorious. Kelley Seda paintings on vintage flashlights, Shannon Gaines Bowman beading like crazy all over cool stuff, Jane Almirall's dainty birds and fabulous cut paper detail. And I made a mess alllll over my house. Epoxy resin still on the kitchen counters and dining room floor, my husband, still not forgiving me. Come down Friday night to see all of the beautiful work by my favorite chica artists! Blue Gallery, July 2, 2010.

9 to 5

2010-05-20T06:59:00.000-07:00

Wowski hiatus! For the last several months I've been consumed planning the heck out of my wedding. It was a glorious production, with lots of fun details( to be posted soon!) and lots of fun people! And, at the end of it all I got a husband that I like a whole, whole lot! Next I have our Xx Chromosome show opening July 2. Needless to say with 1.5 months in between the two, I have been a creative machine...cranking, cranking. In between this and that there were a few fun things that I may have let slip between the cracks due to mad crazy hectic-ness. One thing for instance, our Experience Room at work. Being a studio full of fun creatives, we try to do exercises here and there that keep us on point, gears turning right and all. One of our little projects was to create a single piece of art that described/expressed your personality. Then, all 30 some artist's works were hung gallery style outside of our think room. I've posted mine. It's a little all over the place, like me. Blurbing random thoughts, like me. And a little messy...eh, yep, like me. But hopefully playful and endearing. Hopefully. Then for our "Experience Room," an old conference room we revamped to use as a creative space while brainstorming product ideas, resting our creative crank machines (also known as brains), or just a room to one's self to doodle or think. For the room I illustrated a big clock for the wall ( about 22" diameter) and also (in the photo, behind the couch) I took several of the papers designed by us, cut them into 1.5" squares and displayed them in a large frame. A big K&Co swatch book on the wall! Unfortunately my photo skills are quite pathetic, but the room is super fun in person. And projects like these are much appreciated and needed, making us stop and shake off some of the seriousness of deadlines and our OCD artist ways. Oh, and to remind us of what a sweet deal we have being full time designers/artists. Maybe tough business but crazy super fun! Back to work for me!

This Rustic Romance...

2010-04-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

A great thing about being friends with lotsa artists? When wedding time rolls around you get mad back-up to ensure that the whole affair is nothing short of authentic awesomeness. For our engagement photos one of my good pals, Robert Baker shot a series of photos of Justin and I in one of our favorite vintage stores, Good Juju. We then ventured outside to soak up some more rustic prettiness. With Robert's skills and my art direction (in Good Juju I heard someone say, "she's a bossy one), I think we came up with some nice little keepsakes. And, even though I had a vision, we kept it loose and fun. 17 days away from the big day...I'm excited to get my life back to do all my personal art stuff, but I have lots of great stuff to share coming up. Including a shower thrown by friends with a moustache theme...the details were remarkable. Artsy friends, I love ya!

Kinda like Flock of Seagulls, more like Flock of Tuesday and Justin. Love.

2010-03-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

Well, this time I have a legitimate damn excuse for why I have been so m.i.a as of late. Holy wedding planning sucking my will to...well, do anything but plan wedding stuff. Even as I type this I am listening to a massive archive of music to finish off my wedding playlist. Let a dj pick the music? Good one. I have not really had any bridezilla moments, but that's most likely because I'm internalizing them all. haha. We're getting into the home stretch though. Thank goodness. I've taken a nice 4 day weekend to have a little quite time to work on more of the many little details, personal touches I plan to incorporate into this bad boy. But, here's a little preview. Our invitations went out not too long ago. And might I add, the total cost for invites/envelopes: $40. Amazing right? I kept it simple, I mean, besides the sewing and grommeting, and included the invitation, an rsvp card and 2 feathers tucked warmly in the envelope. As I'm marrying another designer, he took on the rehearsal dinner invites, so that he could include some of his design voice in the whole shebang. I love all of our details, but like most brides at this point, I'm ready to rock this wedding out and have my brain back. Will post more as it comes along. Fun, fun engagement photos coming up!

The Fabulous Mr. Gant

2010-02-07T12:53:00.000-08:00

Last week I sat for a portrait painted by a local artist, Davey Gant. Gant is currently painting like a mad man for a show opening at Leedy Voulkos in Crossroads in June. The show will feature an estimated 200 portraits of the artists and art affiliates of the Kansas City Crossroads Art District. While I waited for Davey to stretch the canvas, I nosed around his studio, taking pics of his current work. I love artist's studios...I've always loved my own...inspired to set up my new one. And, a big thanks to Mr. Gant for making me feel a little less guilty about my messy work process and paint-stained everything. On the other hand, as he began to paint my hair on the portrait, I noticed him painting a dark brown halo around my head..."are you painting my roots?!" I exclaimed. Sure 'nough.

Illustration Friday: Clumsy

2010-01-28T19:57:00.000-08:00

"Grace? She died years ago!" Or, in my case, was never born. I am clumsy and messy....and longing for grace. 50% of my time is spent stumbling and tumbling, the other 50%, cleaning up my messes. So, needless to say, I related well to this week's Illustration Friday topic, Clumsy. Clunk. Boom. Bang. Blurg!

Handmade by K&Company...

2010-01-22T12:56:00.000-08:00

...and me, and Kimberslice, and Kristen. Our new line is just now hitting stores. It was super fun to concept and design...and I even got a lot of illustration time on this bad boy. It's a fun eclectic line including illustrated postage-like stamps, flashcards, adhesive papers, tags, wooden embellishments, ephemera, old fashioned and photobooth picture frames...and on, and on. I even did some fun, funky satin and feather flowers but we need to get a decent studio shot before I post them. I'm having a grand ol' time with rhinestones, satin flowers, and feathers...so I'm sure that romantic inspiration will influence my work next month in the Late Show Gallery's Valentine's show. Ahhh, mixed media, I love ya.

Illustration Friday...Into The Wild.

2010-01-21T10:48:00.000-08:00

Mmmm, the opportunity to use green in my illustration. Ironically, my favorite color, but I rarely get to use it. This week's topic on Illustration Friday, Wilderness. Just another opportunity for me to toss a wild animal head onto a chick's body. Oooh, and draw mushrooms, which I haven't done in aaaaaages. Crazy, wild fun.

Where love is kept

2010-01-20T15:26:00.000-08:00

Having been one of many effected by breast cancer (my grandmother died of it years ago), I began doing paintings last year depicting nudes of woman who have had mastectomies. I received several responses to the work. A friend of mine shared with me that she has had a mastectomy and the scar, which looks like an "L" is referred to by her kids as a scar of love. I loved that story. And because this friend has been so gracious to me I wanted to do a painting inspired by her story. This was the result. I hope she loves it as much as I loved her sharing with me, among all the other great things she's done.

....Easy as 1-2-3, Baby you and me girl!

2010-01-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

Several months back I illustrated lotsa pieces for a new line our company has coming out, Handmade. Super cute, super fun stuff...equally fun to make. We did lots of quarkly little things in the line, including flashcards. I've always wanted to design/illustrate a deck of playing cards and flashcards, so it was a joy to doodle these. Anyway, it was designed a bit ago but has been in production, and until it hit stores I had to keep my doodles to myself. But the line is out now... so I no longer have to keep mum. Later this afternoon I will be heading to stores to see how the line looks, set in store. More pics of the line to come.....

Illustration Friday

2010-01-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

I drag my feet, over and over. Draw all the time but never get my stuff up on Illustration Friday. Oh, I did it this time. You bet your ass I did. Topic was "confined." These ladies are tangled together for life.

gig poster obsession numero dos

2010-01-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

So, yup, over Christmas vacay I was a damn drawing machine. Like I've mentioned I've been a little obsessed with band poster designs. Why? Because they're fun as heck to do, that's why. Here's me newest addition, for Whitest Boy Alive. I have like 5 mas in the works...so, more to come my lovelies.

Baby Avery

2010-01-08T15:13:00.000-08:00

An old friend of mine is about to be a daddy...to his first little girl. He's already been crowned papa with his son, Will...but uh-oh...girls are tough, man. I remember a little over a year ago, I got in a car accident and called my pops to come help me. At 6 am, a very tired dad arrives to the scene and gets everything in order, taking his daughter safely from the accident. As we drove my car to the autoshop, airbag deployed, mobile mangled, I looked at my very sleepy father navigating the vehicle and thought, "poor guy, this dad deal is for life." So, I warned Rob, this little girl is gonna own you. And, around the age of about 13, you will believe that you are harboring Satan's spawn in your home. But let's focus on the now, the sweet...the soft, the happy baby girl that he and his beautiful wife Leslie, and excited son Will will be welcoming into this world any minute now. For Avery, some gifts from me to decorate your new haven. Welcome to this world.

Rock this

2010-01-05T16:14:00.001-08:00

So, over break my future husbo's brother gave us the Gig Posters book. Mmmm, I loveski that libro. And really, really wish I could make a sick living from doodling posters all day. But, I doubt it. While relaxin' and watching way too much True Blood, I did tons of band poster doodles and am slowly puttin' 'em together. Here's me first for my current obsession, Passion Pit. Fun Cat Power, Ingrid Michaelson, Broken Social Scene, and Sissy Wish comin' up.

All Together

2010-01-04T14:24:00.000-08:00

Been doing lots and lots of doodles with crazy, cooky hair. I loooooove line work. Lots. This is a piece I did for a December show at the Late Show Gallery.

Pencil Me In

2010-01-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

Ah, my head is still spinning with holiday hooplah. Back to work, and kinda, sorta back to my routine. Let's get together soon...just pencil me in. Along with 11 other Kansas City artists, I illustrated a month fom this sweet ass new calendar. You can even own one while supplies last. I need to get mine up...as tons of stuff is coming. Wedding planning 2010 needs to kick-off, and I've been doing lots of fun stuff for Xx Chromosome. Annnnnd, over break, in my bed with my puppies I illustrated the heck out of some cool junk. As soon as I get caught up with my life, up on the blog it goes. Happy 2010.

Viola Vita-out now!!!

2009-11-13T09:51:00.000-08:00

This is a new line of illustrations I did for a K&Co paper pad. 24 new illustrated papers, designed and doodled by yours truly. Should be out in stores this very minute. In January I have a featured line coming out in stores as well, been my baby for the last few months...gonna push it out into the world, for you.

Just You and Me

2009-11-13T09:04:00.000-08:00

Me and J are becoming a little obsessed with buying art these days. Last night at the Kyrie Foundation Art Benefit we won the silent auction for this piece by Julia Pott. We both loooooved it, as it reminded us of this last year together and how we're about to get hitched (with a very artful wedding mind you!). I found another piece by Julia that I have to surprise him with in the collection of gifts I'm giving him before we say "I do." He had a few glasses of wine and kept whispering to me "We're getting married. I'm lucky." Which is mad sweet, but even sweeter in since we've been engaged for a few months now and the novelty of it should have worn off by now...but it hasn't, and hopefully never will.

Xx Chromosome 2010

2009-11-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, so excited! Just recently got arrangements made with the gallery here in KC, and Xx 2010 is ready, set, go! We have an incredible line-up of female artists including Kelley Seda, Jes Owings, Jane Almirall, Shannon Gaines Bowman, Jen Walker, Melinda Wallace, Sandi Devenny, Alison Atwood, and of course myself. In addition Kate Von Achen, who does work with the women of Uganda and founder of AWAVA will be showcasing work from women entrepreneurs in Uganda. The show opens April 2, 2010 at Pi Gallery (419 E.18th St). For more information regarding the show check out Present Magazine online. As the show approaches I of course will be blabbing more about all the shaz of the event! For now, here's a sample of work past from the awesome ladies of this year's Xx! Can't wait!

Top to bottom: Shannon Gaines Bowman, Alison Atwood, Sandi Devenny, Melinda Wallace, Jes Owings, Jen Walker, Kelley Seda, Kelley Seda, Jane Almirall, Jane Almirall.

Bottoms up!

2009-11-03T11:00:00.001-08:00

I have always wanted to illustrate my own dishes! This is round one. Coming soon, cake stands, platters, dish sets. Fun, fun! All of these will soon be available for purchase on my etsy. Whoowhoo!

all photos by Robert Baker

Ahhh Last Minute Show

2009-10-23T10:49:00.001-07:00

Just recently myself and two other artists, Robert Baker and Jen Waler, were given the opportunity to do a very, very last minute show. We all had roughly one week to create a new body of work. For the first time, I worked in a relatively smaller scale than I am accustomed to...mainly so that I could carry the pieces around with me at all times to work on them. Lunch break at work: drawing. Breakfast at a restaurant with boyfriend: drawing. But, it got finished and hung and I was pretty happy with the results. The unsold pieces will soon be available on etsy.

Kyrie Event! Whooowhoo!

2009-10-10T11:26:00.000-07:00

Super excited for upcoming Kyrie Foundation Art Benefit! Last year's was great, but as it becomes an annual gig, we get better and bigger. This year we have a chef on site preparing pasta trios using food donated from Wholefoods Market! So, all organic, yummy! Plus, we have some super awesome artists participating! Fun times...and all for Kyrie, proceeds go to help research Pediatric Brain Cancer.

Pretty Ketchikan

2009-10-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

I'm a lot like a broken record. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. Making lots of stuff, getting behind on updating you bloggy, rinse, repeat. Recently got back from a show I participated in in Ketchikan, Alaska. After I curated the last Xx Chromosome I knew I wanted to venture out to the NW to show work...little did I know how far North and West I would go. It was such a neat experience. Ketchikan is beautiful, serene, and slightly surreal. Created new work for the show...but unless you're stopping by AK anytime soon, ya may not see it. Here are some samples.

Art Unleashed

2009-08-26T07:24:00.000-07:00

I've had 14,000 projects as of late. Last week I saw that one of my favorite artists was participating in Art Unleashed. An art benefit here in KC, where proceeds go to the Humane Society. I've participated in the past, but rushed to participate this year. I love the event and the cause. My little doggie Bink means the world to me and it makes me sad to think of all the little doggies out there that don't get the snuggles, Snausages, and love that he does.

Artiste de Monsieur, to you

2009-08-24T18:50:00.001-07:00

Every Monday night I spend the evening being a little artist with some super awesome kids. They live in a local transitional shelter for single mothers and their children, here in the city. Tonight, as a "thinking outside the box" painting series, we all wore fake mustaches and painted our favorite animals with mustaches. At first I got some funny looks as I busted out the 'staches, but before long creativity took over and they had fun with it. Animals with mustaches were a little too out there for some of the kids. When they asked, "do I have to put a mustache on it?" I said, "nope." I'm never down to stifle one's personal vision. Just as long as I can get 'em to think a little differently, I've succeeded. Two weeks ago we learned the color wheel and how to mix our paints to create secondary colors. Tonight, I heard them discussing how to make colors...and guiding each other with what they had learned. Man, kids are great. I love Monday nights.

Snuggle cakes

2009-08-24T17:44:00.001-07:00

I loooove baking! Well, I love baking junk just so I can decorate it. For our friend Liz's engagement party I made Snuggle Cakes. Just mini cupcakes with hand cut gum paste hearts that I watercolored with food coloring. So cute, ya wanna snuggle 'em. Yummies.

Boring Robots.

2009-08-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for great friends that reassure you that you are not a "boring robot." I have a suuuuuuuuper rad friend that always helps pep me up. So, kinda, in a way, this is an ode to awesome friends that get your back. I'd be so sad without my cheer team.

Long Live the Queen!

2009-07-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

In my free time (HA!) I've been designing a deck of playing cards. I forget about them often, so in about a year, maybe you could challenge me to some rummy. But psssst, I'm crazy competitive, so watch out!

Drop it like it's hot

2009-07-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

More doodles. For the next show after this upcoming one. I think. Still trying to decide what goes in this one....and what goes in that one. But I'm cranking out new drawings every night...like mad crazy. So, regardless, there will be enough doodles to go around. This will be a small series within a series, done on old antique flashcards. When you draw like 23 hours a day, sometimes a topic eludes you. So, the flashcards give me a little prompt. Drop: rain.

itty bitty

2009-07-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

Um, just a doodle. Last night while trying to work on new work for my next scheduled show, I came up with a new idea for the show after that. You know, the one that isn't scheduled yet. Because, my chaotic nature has eyes much bigger than it's stomach. Dammit. Focus, Tuesday!

I'm even drawing in my sleep!

2009-07-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

I have eh, 14 million and one projects going on right now. Which is super great, and making me feel super inspired! But, needless to say, I'm abandoning my beloved little blog. When I get a minute to breathe I'm gonna post samples of all the fun stuff I've been working on. And let me tell ya, there's a damn range! I'm sewing a little again....making an "Imagination Wardrobe" for my best friend's baby, who is going through a very glamorous dress-up stage. Working on fun, fun illustrations for the book, working on new paintings for my upcoming show in Alaska, and creating some really pretty stuff at work. So, lots to come. But for now, some little doodles and patterns I did. Ohhhhh...and coming soon I did a whole deck of alpha flashcards! They're so fun! Soon!

Um......

2009-06-11T20:50:00.001-07:00

Awesome.

The Children are our future, right Whitney?

2009-06-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

So, I recently got the opportunity to illustrate a children's book. Well, an opportunity to show my work to the author to see if he liked it. And booyah! He did! So we're moving forward. Here are the first three illustrations. They're just samples...not three pages consecutively. Anyway, it's a super fun story and I'm mad excited for the chance to work on it. Yay kiddies!

For Abigail

2009-05-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

So, Justin's little sister Abigail is graduating from FIT! How exciting huh?! I love my antique jewelry and hair doodads....one day she emailed me asking if it would be okay if she invested in some cute antique earrings she found in some little boutique. I of course encouraged the purchase of trinkets unique. For her graduation present I spent a day going to all of my favorite antique shops, small boutiques...and of course Anthropolgie, buying up all the pretty little accessories I could find. I designed a fun hand illustrated wrapping paper (as she too is an illustration major) and illustrated tags to attach to each piece of found jewelry. On the backs of the tags I included websites/contacts of places to begin job hunting. For instance, Surtex website for next year's show and Wearhaus ( a local fashion event HQ here). So, not only is the present pretty and fashionable for the Fashion Institute grad, but also informative. Congrats Pretty Abba! I hope you enjoy.

My chicks...Xx Chromosome body of work

2009-04-06T10:34:00.000-07:00

I like books with pictures. That being said, I'll shut up, spare you the words...and give you some pictures. Several pieces from the new show Xx Chromosome that opened last Friday.

I love chicks, and their awesome art!

2009-03-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

So, my friend Catherine, who is one of the featured artists in the upcoming Xx Chromo show just posted new pics of her ceramic torsos and a picture process of her creating them. It was awesome! I'm so in awe of her new work. Love it! Also, I've been photographing some of my new work for the show. I said I wouldn't post any until after it opened, but I couldn't help it. Guess this makes me a liar. What are ya gonna do about it?

New work, new show, new mess

2009-03-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

Busy, busy, busy. Crazy. And busy. Like 2 weeks til the show. Needless to say that my house is a mess. Sewing machines, paint all over, ink, ink, and more ink. Looking at hopefully around 16-18 new pieces. After the show opens I'll post more...but for now, this is "Accidental Honesty."

SLOOOOOOOW. Day.

2009-03-06T10:08:00.000-08:00

Grrrr. It's so pretty outside! So pretty. And all I wanna do is go play in it. But there's work to do. This is my offering to the time gods, I'll make you as many pictures as you want, just help this day along....or at least the 9 to 5 part.

The Girlie Show!!!!

2009-03-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

So, less than one month to go til the crazy awesome Xx Chromosome show!!! I'll be curating and exhibiting with a bunch of flippin' fab local artists...chick artists. Like some of my favorite chick artists ever. The show highlights the process and value of the influences and inspirations that make up each of these women and their choice in medium. In addition, several practices are being showcased: photography, illustration, painting, printmaking, textile and sculpture. Also, super awesome, Softee , all-girl local band, will be playing! Still more! Annie Cherry will be making an appearance to show off her burlesque skills. So, we got incredible art, rockin' fun band, booze, and burlesque. I think they call that a freakin' good time. Artists exhibiting include Maura Cluthe, Ellie Kort, Rachel Kort, Ali Moline, Tiffany Matson, Catherine Armbrust, Emily Louise Lodigensky, and Faye Woods. Yep, and yours truly.

House Broken

2009-02-18T14:57:00.000-08:00

Today on my way to work I heard on the radio the story of the xaneied up monkey that attacked a chick's face. After a minute or two of deliberation on the topic this afternoon, Kim and I decided that no friend is obligated to help look for lost or misplaced wild animals. Puppies, kitties, hampsters...sure. Monkeys, hyenas, saber-tooth tigers, not so much. We are guilted in to a myriad of ickies regularly...moving help, Pampered Chef parties, rides to the airport. But if these friends abduct animals from the wild and then lose them, you my friend, are off the obligatory hook. "ahh, man, I gots some crazy laundry to do tonight. Good luck finding your rabid pet raccoon though. I'm out." ....and you save face, literally. You're welcome. Love Kim and Tuesday.

Daydreamin'. Man.

2009-02-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

So, ahhhhh, first line ever. All my illustrations put together in a cute little collection. It's finished and now in production...and in just a few months shippin' to stores. It reminds me that I'm a pretty lucky girl. I get to doodle and create cute little icons...then they turn them into papers and stickers and all kinds of fun stuff. 7 year old Tuesday would be so happy to see that she gets to keep her 7 year old creativity in the future. All that drawing on the walls of my closet as a kid, didn't go to waste. Anyway, here are just a few samples of the papers to appear in the line.

To The Moon, Tuesday! To The Moon!

2009-01-27T07:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took a little trip to visit my friend The Doctor. While talking to my homeboy I shared with him that I was crazy over winter. I like to get dramatic and flop around, whining that it's ruining my life. In actuality my energy level is just a bit lower than usual and instead of doing 20 projects, I can only swing about 10 through these final months of arctic hell ( I dabble in oxymorons a bit more than usual too). So, he says to me, straight-faced, "might I suggest Light Therapy?" I waited for him to laugh and write me a script but he continued to stare. "Excuse me? Come again?" I said. He explains that Light Therapy is a common solution to winter lethargy. You wear a light hat for 30 minutes a day. He also explains that astronauts have experienced great success with it. Strangely my doc refers to astronauts and space metaphors commonly. I wish he'd just come out with it already and tell me he thinks I'm cuckoo, from another planet or somethin'. Anyway, this is an illustration from my last line. One day perhaps, a cute rocket like these will return me to my home planet. Until then, you're stuck with me.

Doddley Doo

2009-01-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

So, the other day I got to thinking and I was like "wow, this is pretty cool, being a grown adult who gets to doodle in my sketchbook all day"....while laying around eating hot tamales and watching movies. Then later getting to take those doodles, create new product lines with them, and see them come to life on the shelves of stores. Sometimes I get a little whiney about work, but for real? I get to act like a 7 year old, getting all imaginative, every day. Not too shabby. This is my next children's line coming out. See, I love rhinos so much I even work them in to my day job.

Chop! Chop!

2009-01-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

Okay, so every year, around this time, I begin to get bored. probably from being cooped up all winter or somethin' like that. Two dangers to being me: 1. I think I have skills cutting my own hair ( although I believe this is just a delusion ) and 2. When I get restless, my hair suffers. So, I drew this little picture to remind me, NO WINTER HAIRCUTS! I hope it works.

Glorious! Glorious! Glorious! I love you Christmas!

2008-12-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

Here's the thing, I am a Christmas addict. It is creepy and weird because I have a tendency to be sarcastic with a dash of cynicism. So, it comes as a surprise to all that I find this time of year magnificent. Me and Justin decorated a glorious, glorious tree this year. At first I worried that two designers decorating at Christmas would clash heads but aside from one disagreement about ornamental color schemes, we worked quite well together. Every night we are amazed at our skills that shine bright in the living room. Last night I wrapped the hell outta some presents. Those also, were nothing short of glorious. For our fur ball doggie we have a fabulous Christmas sweater, and I must say, he wears it well. Almost like that green and red argyle was made to be worn by him with his smashing good looks. So, now that we've made our holiday pretty to look at we're gonna shine some love, kids. Merry Christmas!

Metamorphosis Art Benefit....Ooooh fun

2008-10-08T11:24:00.000-07:00

Once a year I get the privilege of participating in the organization of some sort of art benefit for charity. This year I'm so excited to be on board for Metamorphosis, an art benefit for the Kyrie Foundation. The event will be held November 6 at Studio 2131. A quaint little finger feast will be provided by several local restaurants including: Thomas, La Bodega, Room 39, D'Bronx, The Foundry and McCoy's, and Sweet City Cupcakes. I will be dancing, dancing, dancing to the live music provided by one of my faaaaavorite local bands, Softee. And some people, if so obliged may want to partake in libations which include beer and wine. Oh...I almost forgot the whole point...art. Several wonderful, amazing, beautiful local artists have so graciously donated their incredible work which we will live auction that evening, all proceeds going directly to the Kyrie Foundation. In addition several other donated gifts will be raffled. It will be a lovely, lovely evening for a beautiful cause. We can dance and look at art together. Wanna?

TEXT

Painting, painting, painting....all for you

2008-10-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

Wanna hear a super sweet, heartwarming story? So, years ago, while still in college, my friend Mindy Chang told me the only way to get the ball rolling on showing my work was to man up and schedule a show. In since I was being a scaredy cat, she went ahead and scheduled one for me, on the walls of her place, Blue Koi. Then, in the weeks following she would ask, "how's the work coming?" It was endearing. So, for the last few years she's inquired about when I may be willing to show again. I recently decided it was time. Time to replay the little nudge she gave me years ago. My newest body of work is the most sentimental set I've exhibited to date, properly so I guess, in the first place I ever showed. Awe, sweet huh? These paintings will be on display at Blue Koi until November 1. Next month I will be co-hosting Metamorphosis, an art benefit, at Studio 2131 in Crossroads. Lots of fun stuff going on that night, I will be posting more info soon. Then in April I will be curating and participating in Xx Chromosome, a study of the feminine hand in Contemporary Art. Exciting eh? I'll keep you posted. Until then I'll be working away, making pretty stuff and wearing big, fuzzy scarves. I love Fall, and getting to layer up. I'm loving the forecast ahead!

Go Away. watercolor and India Ink on paper.

Ode to Amy: nothing says love like french fries off the dashboard

2008-09-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

So, this drawing is an ode to my dearest Amy. We just returned from getting our pumpkin spice lattes and holy canole is it raining! Which sometimes makes people drive pretty stupidly. Like the guy in front of us on the highway. Amy had to hit her breaks, which made my life flash before my eyes. We've been down this road together before. In high school. Collision on the highway, in a snowstorm returning from McDonald's. Horrible accident. I say the dumbest things in life-threatening situations. After the car was finished getting all smashed up, us jostled, fast food scattered everywhere...I picked a french fry up off the dashboard and offered it to her. Hey, I was trying to console alright?! French fries make me happy.

400 people per year survive lightening strikes, so...

2008-09-02T12:50:00.000-07:00

Just now I was standing by the window, pouring myself some coffee and watching the pretty storm. I watched as a lady I work with ran out, into the storm, to get her umbrella out of her car. I sat pondering the sense of that situation. Going out, from a dry, covered building, to get an umbrella to bring back into the dry, covered building? Then I hoped that lightening would strike me through the window so that I could go home for the day. I guess that doesn't really make a lot of sense either, does it?

Chicks, man.

2008-08-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

So, I'm insanely excited right now. A little busy....but still finding a little time to get fired up. A few of my favorite things in the entire world include: creating new bodies of work (of my art), discussing art with other artists...becoming inspired by them and learning from their process, networking in my local art community, and helping new artists whenever I can. So, I decided to crumple all of those ideas into a big ball and create a new show out of it. Xx Chromosome (the name may change, just something I came up with on a whim) is a new show opening April 3, 2009 at the Late Show Gallery in the Crossroads District here in KC. The concept of the show is to highlight the female artist, recognizing the importance of the feminine hand in contemporary art. The show will explore the processes, inspiration, use of materials, and each artist's growth through their individual work. The highlighted artists include women who are experienced showing their work in galleries locally and nationally, and women who are not as experienced with this process. My hopes with this show is that it be interactive, encouraging a vessel for networking and discussing common interests. I'm so inspired by it that I think I may turn this into an annual affair showcasing different female artists every year. For this year though I have been incredibly fortunate...I'm getting to work with some beautiful artists that I admire immensely. The artists line-up includes: Maura Cluthe, Ellie Kort, Rachel Kort, Catherine Armbrust, Tiffany Matson, and Ali Moline. Exciting stuff eh? Don't worry, this show's my new baby so I'll be posting plenty of updates, including features about each of these awesome women. Lucky you.

Plethora...

2008-08-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

....is one of my favorite words. I love that word. It reminds me of a giant garage full of junk or an eccentric old woman's jewelry box. I don't know why, it just does. Here's a plethora of crap I like to doodle about.....

I just got my new steak suit fitted...I think I look pretty damn good.

2008-08-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

So, last week me and Kim were busy at work...thinking up awesome but unlikely ways to kill each other. I previously mentioned that Kim's illustration skills leave much to be desired. However, I took for granted the fact that my homegirl is a graphic designer with some mad program skills. This was in my inbox this morning. It gives me warm fuzzies. Next week I think we should move on to concepting epitaphs.

This is my steak suit. I only wear it out on special occasions...like when I'm going to the zoo and I want to die.

crazy, awesome deaths that are super unlikely

2008-07-30T14:12:00.000-07:00

Ah, computer update training week at work. Seven fun-filled hours a day learning how stuff works. It's not fun kids. See, my thing is drawing stuff. Designing stuff. Sometimes falling down, sometimes accidently breaking stuff. These are my strengths. Retaining hours upon hours of computer lessons, weakness. So, to entertain ourselves me and my good ol' buddy Kimmy decided that we should send illustrated death threats to each other across the class. Sweet right? A few days ago my friend Kim requested a friend divorce adding that she would rather be hit by a car than apologize for hurtful words she spoke about an embarrassing, but awesome band I love. I reminded Kim that hit and run accidents and divorces go hand in hand and that later that afternoon I would be renting a Ford Festiva to take her ass out with. I recommended she invest in a helmet and wear it at all times. Just in case. So, that's where the first illustration began. Awe, it all started with a Ford Festiva.

Watch out Kimmy! You never know when a Ford Festiva's gonna be gunning it around a corner, coming for your ass!

Next, I wished Kim a death threat by her imaginary, drug-dealing boyfriend's python. All drug-dealers have pythons or tarantulas, everyone knows that.

We work out close to an airport so of course, work with what ya got. Airplanes purposely swooping down specifically to decapitate Kim. If I were a pilot I would totally do that.

Finally, Kim orchestrated her own death. An escape buffalo that knocks off a lawn mowing business, runs her ass over with a mower then stomps on all the tiny, mangled pieces! Awesome! Oh yeah, but then she also tries to defend herself with mace. Everybody knows that buffaloes are immune to mace. Get smart Kim!

I know I may come off as a little creepy here...obsessed with death but hey, that's what 7 hours of computer training does to people. It's not my fault man. Kim was not completely innocent in the whole thing either. My favorite death of myself was me wandering through a zoo wearing a steak suit. Brilliant. I would love to have shown it but Kim's illustration skills are crazy weak. If I don't get her a cyanide sandwich for Christmas I may just get her a drawing class.

Bacteria, Protozoa, E.Coli, and Love...for my friend

2008-06-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

So, if you've taken part in the reading of my previous posts, it'll come as no surprise to you that I despise Johnny-on-the-spots. They are the bane of my existence. Horrid, horrid little creations. The guy that created Cheez-Its, awesome. The guy that created porta-potties, satan's spawn. I could go on for pages...but really, no one likes 'em so I would just be preachin' to the choir. Germs are gross. I agree. But the germaphobe that obsesses ( aside from my J-O-T-S obsession), may be worse.

Saturday night I'm out to dinner with a rather large group of friends. One of my girlfriend's, let's call her Summer, is seated directly to my right. Now, mind you we are a large group and the waitress was quite busy. Thirsty and thoughtful, I decide to pour some of Summer's unused water into my glass. Knowing that Miss Purell would flip if she saw the two lips of the glasses touch, I was very cautious to avoid this. As I set her glass down she stares (I mean lazer beams, lazer beams), sickened at the glass. Assuming that she had not witnessed the transaction, I decide to explain ( or defend, whatever): "Dude! I totally DID NOT let the glasses touch!" To which she replies, "You touched my glass though." What?! You know... because the bubonic plague is so relevant nowadays and whatnot.

Fine, I let it go. But, here's the kicker, today while talking to my friend Vanessa, whose nickname btw is Toes, alright, says "Well, she's let me eat off her plate before." She let Toes eat off her plate but freaks out when I touch her glass? Selective germaphobe...that sounds like a bunch of BS to me. So, Vanessa promised that next weekend when she helps our buddy Sum move, she'll cough all over her belongings. In the meantime, I've been doing a little research online about germs, disgusting facts that no one has any business knowing, and tonight I will enlighten, and probably frighten her into paralysis with them. Like my mom always said, "You want something to cry about? I'll give ya something to cry about."

Arrested Development

2008-06-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

Alright, so I have no fun pictures... and no funny stories about humiliating myself. However, I do have some super awesome good news. Oh yeah, three adjectives to describe it... it's that good. So, I think that David Cross is the funniest man alive. He is cynical and hateful and I love it! I also love to listen to comedy sketches while I work. I've listened to all of his about forty times over and I still laugh out loud. My brother told me that he recently heard David Cross was in a new movie, so of course, I decided to check it out. Guess what I found? One of the funniest shows ever ( ever, ever) is being turned into a movie. That's right Arrested Development ( Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett, Michael Cera, and of course David Cross) is being turned into a full length feature film. I know, I know...it's a glorious day, right? 2009, me and my brother and tons of junk food smuggled in via my purse, at the movies laughing hysterically. I can't wait!

Karma's a bitch!

2008-06-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

Hey, Katie Horner, thanks for ruining prime time television last night! Real cool. Aw, it wasn't so bad. Me and Am sat out on the deck watching the crazy storms roll in. It was quality time together. She threw out some weather terms and raved about how awesome the storm was and I encouraged her to go back to college and get her degree in meteorology. Then I got pegged with a hail pellet. Which reminded me of a few years ago...when I decided to go head-to-head with karma. So, a couple of my friends tend to be a bit on the hippie side. They own at least one tie-dye, drench themselves in patchouli, and often experiment with alternative deodorants. Lilac deodorant, organic mumbo jumbo, whatnot. Listen, it's called Speed Stick, don't complicate things hippies. Simple stuff, been around forever. Needless to say I occasionally reject some of their philosophies. One night, while most likely on a cynical rant, one of the hippies (we'll call them Sarah and Amy) say to me, "that's karma for you." To which I most likely replied along the lines of, "there's no such thing as karma, so save it!" Two seconds later a chunk of hail comes through the rolled down car window and pegs me in the head. The hippies laughed and laughed, feeling victorious. True story kids, take it from me, don't mess with karma in a hail storm.

In the bushes outside of Mike Lowery's house

2008-06-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with Mike Lowery. Love him! So, a few weeks ago one of our art directors got back from a little illustration trade show in New York. She emails me immediately and says that his style reminded her of mine. I don't necessarily see it, but hey I'll take the compliment because I think he's great. Then I was reading Julia Rothman's sketchbook series blog and stumbled upon him again. I'm in the midst of some researching at work and all I wanna do is hang out on his websites. Or in his front bushes with binoculars. Just kidding...kinda. On Etsy he has a print of bunnies eating dim sum. I think I'm gonna need that. Perfect for my new entryway with my collection of work from favorite artists. So, I suggest you take some time...preferably on your company's watch, and check him out. And Mike Lowery's neighbors, if you see me in the front lawn, don't call the cops, it's cool, I'm researching.

David Sedaris, sprinkled with glitter

2008-06-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

I am so excited! Tonight I will be investing in three sparkly new sketchbooks for the three new lines I've been asked to illustrate at work. With the lines is also the promise that I will be able to work undisturbed...I think the way they put it was "off limits," I've been made "off limits" to the rest of the company. They're giving me sketchbooks and pens...and the luxury of privacy. It's kinda like winning an all-expenses-paid vacation. Although this all-inclusive vacation is in the Northland part of Kansas City, I'll still take it. There is one catch however...I have to do 40 thousand mock-ups today before receiving my prize. Needless to say I am slowly mutating into a spray mount glitter monster. Wherever I walk I'm sure to leave behind a pink glittery trail. Precious, huh? In our staff meeting a few hours ago a friend slid a piece of paper over to me, my favorite author ever is releasing his new book today, When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Unfortunately I'm playing this game where I act like a grown-up and budget...so the book will not be mine for a week or two. I'm content just knowing it exists. A few years ago I was reading one of his books while on an airplane. I began laughing so hard I was literally gasping for breath, couldn't breathe. My head was in my lap laughing into the book, trying desperately to stop. The very thought of the story I had just read would send me right into another fit. I think I truly frightened the middle-aged woman to my left. It was great...so, I'm very excited to get the newest addition to his collection, and most likely humiliate myself in public once more.

Man, I'm good at weekends...and Scrabble. Right girls?

2008-06-01T19:03:00.001-07:00

Horrible! Horrible, horrible, horrible! I've neglected you so blog. On the upside I have lots of great times ahead of me...and, fingers crossed, I'll be keeping up with posting.... lots of doodles, sprinkled with a few funny stories. So, hello again. I just had super, wonderful weekend number 2. Although I've had a bit of muck going on...I'm feeling almost unfairly blessed. Friday night I was fortunate enough to see one of my favorite bands. They flippin' rocked...it was a perfect, perfect night...the weather was beautiful and they played my very favorite song last during their encore. Thanks, guys. Then on Saturday I spent the day with my three wonderful, wonderful best friends. My friend Amy threw a memorial party in the park for her mother who passed away 5 years ago. It was incredible... Amy created a beautiful day that her mother would have absolutely loved. So, we remembered an amazing woman, exchanged lots of hugs, wore summer dresses, laughed together, and I got to take baby for his first trip down a slide in the park. Then, later that night I dominated Jen and Sarah at Scrabble. I mean, I killed them. They should be embarrassed. I bet if you added both of their scores together it still couldn't have touched mine. Jen will have to refresh my memory...I displayed the score sheet on her fridge, a reminder that I am a Scrabble savant. I should go on a scrabble championship tour. I need to clear out a place on my shelf for a new, shiny trophy.

I have to thank my girl Val for going up to the plate for me...talking me up to the big wigs and getting me some awesome new assignments at work. I love doing illustrations for kid's stuff. It's muy, muy fun. After I clock out though, this is what I'll be working on. I've written a couple children's books about this little guy, Bixby Gato, now I just gotta get busy illustrating. He's gonna be my new boyfriend for awhile, we'll be spending many evenings together. Lucky guy.

fake coffee, fake furniture, fake stuffed boar's head

2008-05-21T07:36:00.000-07:00

This weather has been insane. I love it... but I'm not being as productive as I plan to be. Oh well, it'll be too hot soon and when it comes 'round I'll have plenty of work to catch up on indoors. Last night I joined friends for dinner on the patio at Fric and Frac. Before I was able to even sit down Mr. Nick Walker, whom I wrote about in the "Fat Bat" post, says to me, " I have a few issues I would like to discuss about Fat Bat." He proceeds to tell me that mocha chai does not exist and that it will "not fly" with the general public. My friend Amy, a previous Starbuck's employee in her youth, endorsed Nick's argument. She decided to delve into detail about how mocha coffees are made, this process is not applicable to chai .... the two just do not mix. Don't get me wrong, I appreciated the senseless blabbing. However, I was simply using the term "mocha chai" because the syllables worked and because this was after all, just a satirical sketch that I quickly created to inspire this pesky perfectionist that now challenged me from across the table. Also, in my past experiences with Starbuck's, they have been willing to accommodate almost any request I make. For instance, I request pumpkin spice flavoring in June and voila, I get a pumpkin spice latte (typically reserved for winter months). Amy and Nick rarely go to Starbuck's by the way, perhaps they should find another crusade.With the new project I am working on I am considering rudimentary furniture designs, the modern classics. It's been mucho, mucho fun and I have a feeling I'll be having a desire to share lots of the preliminary sketches. Such as this one, highlighting the Eames Herman Miller chair. We have a brown leather one, although I prefer the white one that I portray here. Maybe I need to go furniture shopping. Retail therapy..and research for art projects, love it.

2008-05-20T11:47:00.000-07:00

Game On!

2008-05-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

Oi vey! What a weekend. Uno mas deadline complete. This one was the most demanding and yet most fulfilling one to date. I love that... working feverishly and at the end being insanely satisfied with the final product. All weekend I thought, "I cannot wait until Monday! I am gonna be so flippin' lazy!" So, last night I waltzed out of the office, heading for my couch. Instead I got wild urges to go to the gym and later, to bust out my laptop and begin work on the next project. Fortunately someone close to me reminds me often that in order to not get burnt out I need to take a pause in between. So, I retired to bed quite early for me ( 9:30, what ninny?!) and slept in this morning. So, self, I hope you enjoyed your little vacation because tonight it's "game on"!

One of the fifty-thousand sketches that was produced over the weekend. Quite amusing to me...listening to myself describe these deadlines, then seeing the cute, snuggley doodles that are produced. Doesn't make it seem so dramatic now does it? Thanks mermaid lady.

Sketchbook, I'm gonna wine and dine you tonight!

2008-05-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

So, I got over my little pouting session about the upcoming rainy weekend. I'm all heavy in the middle of a new presentation at work and I love, love, love what I'm getting to work on! However, it's illustration city 'round these parts right now. Not complaining... not one bit. But all of my illustration energy has been turned over to this current project and in since we're preproduction, I unfortunately can't really share it with the world yet. Me and my doodles are gonna spend a nice romantic weekend together... nailing down the finishing touches for the big presentation dia. Next weekend I'll play outside and spend some quality time with you... making pictures for you, treating you right. It's a date. On a sillier note- John, a friend of mine at work, just told me that early this morning his daughter (the girl in the moustache and pink shirt in my earlier post) got to meet David Cook, the KC guy from American Idol. He's taking the photo that she sent him of her and David and turning it into a faux Teen Magazine cover. So, now she's officially the coolest girl at her school and she has the sweetest dad ever! Awe, that's so flippin' cute!

Okay, for real rain, go away!

2008-05-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

So, a couple close friends are whining ( now I'm gonna receive phone calls saying 'Oh, whining, huh? ) that I'm not including enough of my personal artwork on this blog. I'm just a trophy "art" girlfriend to you all aren't I? The work's so pretty until she talks. So much for my opinions and interests. I'm just gonna smile and nod... and post artwork to win affection. Ha ha. Alright, pity party's over... go home. I'll do my best to keep your appetite satisfied but I am a busy girl so there may just be a few days thrown in, in which you'll just have to enjoy my personality...without pretty pictures. And, much like the images below, you'll have to settle for sketch book scribbles some days. I am working on my next show though. Slowly but surely... so stay tuned and I'll give you sneak peaks.

This one expressed my sentiments exactly. I've been really enjoying my lovely days...getting to play outside and now those damn weathermen are gonna screw up my weekend dreams. Oh well, just an excuse to stay inside and create. I'm trying to be a "glass is half full" type of girl these days.

One man's junk...is another man's reason to play hooky from work

2008-05-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

Boo hoo! Everyone loves to complain about their jobs and I admit that I too have been guilty of this humdrum pastime. But in reality I dig my j-o-b. I get to illustrate, paint, design, and down as many diet 7-ups a day as I want. So, not too bad. Another bonus of being a creative professional is a splendid little thing called "research days." Days where I get paid to go out and shop. We creatives have to stay trendy, y'know. On Friday, together, as a big happy design family our studio got all dolled up in our best boho chic attire and headed to Sparks, Kansas for the biannual Sparks/White Cloud Flea Market. Shopping is an art... that business wears me out, but we did find some pretty fun stuff. An additional bonus, we got to mingle with the locals. Whoo-eee!

photo by Robert Baker

All kinds of stuff...some even in the exact same color.

There was one tent that had the coolest, old graphic-y stuff. We could have spent hours and a fortune in there.

This one below is my favorite purchase, a 4ft scroll from an old teaching aid easel. One section of the scroll was a diagram of the presidents of the U.S., the last being Woodrow Wilson, only showing the date of his inauguration, 1913. Wowzer... older than my Grandma!

Downfalls to the day: 1. We lost Amy for a short stint, but fortunately I watch a lot of Without A Trace, so I believe that if it had come down to it my skills would have been found beneficial to her recovery. 2. Lorenza was disappointed that her cheese dog at lunch was made with nacho cheese. We wish they had had a suggestion box on the side of the trailer that it was served out of. We would have suggested a few episodes of Top Chef. Get creative hot dog man! 3. More Johnny-on-the-spots. Damn you Johnny-on-the-spots! Damn you!

What' chu Chalkin' About, Willis?

2008-05-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, finally winter may indeed be coming to an end. Of course, I do live in the midwest so it's tough to make that call for sure. I'll keep my mittens out until June, just in case. Don't get me wrong I love me some snow, fuzzy sweaters, and soup but I am getting damn stir crazy in my loft! Last weekend my two friends Brian and Wolfgang ( the directors/creators of Mosaic Brain, a non-profit organization whose mission is to serve underserved youth through artistic exploration and expression) invited me to participate in the first annual Chalk Walk. It was a cool festival like gathering, you know with music, concessions, johnny-on-the-spots ( which I could dedicate an entire post to because I freakin' hate them), and a bunch of really fun local artists creating beautiful chalk murals all over a park in the Northeast part of KC. Artists involved in the event ranged from tattoo artists to advertising designers and prominent local fine artists. I was completely honored to be invited and loved the excuse to kick it outside all afternoon.

My friend E-Long ( below on the left) who did a monster 16 foot square, was right next to me. He's got an awesome graffiti-like style which I love. Fortunately he was stocked up with a pretty fancy selection of chalk which he was gracious enough to share.

Below are some pics of my work in progress. I had more people around keeping me company but I look a little lonely in that first one. I guess I could have recruited help but who am I kidding... I'm a little too unorganized to coach people through my vision. For my self-esteem's sake we'll just substitute the word "unorganized" with "improv".... yeah, that's the ticket.

Bring Your Kids To Work Day...and I'll Kick Their Butts at Kickball

2008-05-04T20:32:00.000-07:00

So, last week was bring your kids to work day... and it was flippin' awesome! For years I have been annoying the crap out of everyone close to me, quizzing them from one of the best books ever created, The Book of Questions ( by Gregory Stock). It's this quirky little book that asks random, random questions. Couple examples:

Question 4: If you could spend one year in perfect happiness but afterward would remember nothing of the experience would you do it?

Question 88: You, your closest friend and your father are on vacation together, hiking together in a remote jungle. Your two companions stumble into a nest of poisonous vipers and are bitten repeatedly. You know that neither will live without an immediate shot of anti-venom, yet there is only a single dose of anti-venom and it's in your pocket. What would you do?

Fun, right? Well, they also published a children's version of this book. When I was in college and used to substitute teach, we may or may not have blown off a math lesson or two to read and discuss from this book. The kids' answers would crack me up. So, when I was asked to host a little segment we called "Questions With Tuesday," I jumped at the offer. Because we were in our company's big, fancy conference room I set the tables with place cards, including each kid's name and fake moustaches. After all this was a big, serious meeting.

One of the questions I asked was something along the lines of "If you could do anything in the world, money's not an option, what would you do?" The kid on the left in the pic below raised his hand and said, "shave."

Personally I think that a design studio would be a fun place to spend the day if I were a kid... but we kinda forgot the importance of recess. So, after hours of cool projects the kids were getting a little over zealous to get some exercise. A little panicked, I raced t the closest sporting goods store, bought a bouncy ball and quickly recruited designers from the office to a kickball competition. The kids were impressed with my skills.. I still got it. Take that 9 year olds!

all photos by Robert Baker

a faux speed date, you and me

2008-05-03T22:32:00.000-07:00

So, in since we're gonna hang out for a few minutes I'll give ya a quick brief on junk that I like. It's a courtesy really, a considerate little gift from me to you. That way, before you invest some time looking at all the blah blah I like you can decide if you even like the chick that's offering it up. If I could be a hybrid of famous superstars I would be a nice concoction of Tina Fey, Sofia Coppola, and Parker Posey. I watch really crappy tv...and I'm totally secure with this shortcoming. I smoke three cigarettes too many a day, sometimes a quick one on the way to the gym. I buy grocery store sushi, but the woman that makes it is a sweet little asian lady. I like to imagine that in her youth she was trained in Japan by a sushi making master...so she's over qualified for her position as sushi lady at the local grocery. I don't like cheese ( I know, this is probably a deal breaker, huh?) And finally, my boyfriend's relieved that you all exist, to listen to my artsy banter, he's heard enough.