Nice Package

I never really thought of myself as much of a package designer, until I was sifting through some old college work. Perhaps it was my college teacher's love for all things cluttered; not an inspiring mentor.

I always thought this particular piece was good, but after many sleepless nights, hours an hours of rubber cement inhalation, I had started to doubt myself.

I feel like I need to post this for you guys and myself.  It goes to show that I really did know what I was doing and re-affirms for me that I chose the correct career path. I currently don't have the time (or energy) to print and mock-up these pieces, however they're very simple so it shouldn't be too difficult imagining what these packages should be.

SWAK

[Sealed With A Kiss]
Sometimes when I have no idea what to draw, I dig down into my inner emo and take refuge within a song. I say it semi-mockingly, but it truly is a great place to start when you're stuck. If you're a visual person, the inspiration basically sets up your art.

 This song led to some multi-textured-smoochers

 Yes it's supposed to be upside down. 

Have you ever noticed you can see mistakes (faces, type kerning) so much easier upside down? An art director told me that once and my mind has been blown ever since.

moley moley mole

I'm a big believer in homemade christmas presents. They're thrifty thoughtful and totally original. Wouldn't you love to get a pile of cookies with a Melissa Wilson original recipe card? I sure would.

Did I mention I love type? 

Here's a zoomed-in version of my bow tie/astronaut textile design. After drawing half a dozen astronauts they become easier and easier. Really, they're essentially a robot with a jet pack and a fish bowl head.

These are fairly random in content, my moleskin is a magical and confusing place.

This water lilly is actually from a high school project using National Geographic magazines; I cut it out and kept it. Hoarder, no. Forward-thinking, yes.

Spongebob knock-off? Nah....

I snagged a beautiful flower reference book from my local gallery's book sale a few weeks ago. Best 25 cents I've ever spent.

long time no see

I have returned. I FINALLY decided to update my design work, realizing that if I'm going to be pointing people to my blog (Hello people!) I should update it. It has been 7 months. In my defence I got double pneumonia and a new kidney, so I think my timing is just right. I have new sketchbook entries, a few design pieces and some cards. Sadly I gave away all my beautiful christmas cards before thinking of taking  picture of them....trust me though, they were nice. 

I'm currently not working and my time is almost soly consumed with Christmas baking, but I will be more diligent, and hopefully it won't be seven months the next time you hear from me!

Tuesday in a Peony (versus a clichéd nutshell)

One good thing about not having a real job or any real commitment, is you can pretty much spend your warm, sunny, summery days as you please!


Soundtrack for the day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-gMeYU7IMk&feature=related
*I know it's called June Hymn but it's close enough, right?


Photos for the day: [to be inspired into painting of the day]

Wildwood Chronicles

I have to say I LOVE Carson Ellis, Colin Meloy and their gorgeous Wildwood Chronicles. Here is an honorary ode:

Spring Inspiration [con'td]

My peppy spring feelings continue. I feel it's my moral obligation to create Mother's Day cards, however I think it's just another excuse to draw flowers. 

Speaking of flowers, I received a GORGEOUS bouquet that I had to macro the crap out of. 

I have to say getting flowers may seem cheesy but who can say they actually don't like getting them? It IS Mother's Day this weekend...Get your mom some flowers; even better PICK them yourself and put them in a simple recycled glass jar. (You've still got a few days left before Sunday)

Happy it-finally-feels-like-spring!

Triptych Pen + Ink bouquets

Full bouquet