January Updates

I can't tell if January is flying by or moving like molasses.  I've all of a sudden become very busy!  I've finished some new art recently, had new prints made, and I also have some commissions and pop-up shops coming up!

Did you know that yesterday was National Handwriting Day?  Happy Belated!  One of my goals this year is to learn a little hand lettering.  Right now I can fake it, but I want to learn more about how to do it correctly.  I've gotten some book recommendations, and I've also found that videos are helpful.  Watching when to lift the marker and how to create the strokes is a great way to learn technique.  I picked up a few sizes of brush tip markers and marker paper from AC Moore so I've been playing around with those.  I really like the Faber-Castell markers. The ink flows really nicely.  I also want to pick up a set of Tombow Markers.  I've heard good things about them.  Side note:  If you are learning hand lettering, do yourself a paper and pick up some Strathmore Marker Paper.  It is so amazingly smooth which is really nice to work on, but also protects your markers...especially if you are using  brush tip.

Recently, I had a pop-up shop at Playa Bowls in Pier Village.  I think it might be one of my favorite places to set up!  It has a really good vibe.  My art looked great with the colors in the space, and of course the food there was awesome!  I'm hoping to pop up at more of their locations later this year.

Last, but not least, Valentine's Day is coming up!  My love for Valentine's Day is very strong.  I know some people have a lot of negative feelings about Valentine's Day, what it stands for, and how it originated.  HOWEVER, I say to them..."What is better than celebrating love and chocolate!?"  It doesn't have to be romantic love.  Celebrate the love you have for your family, friends, and pets!  Imagine how great our world would be if we celebrated love and chocolate everyday!  I'm sure you have guessed, or if you follow me on Instagram you already know, that I love making Valentine's Day cards!  I have a bunch of handmade valentines available at the Local Line in Red Bank, and I may have some at other locations soon.

Curious what the finished cards look like?  I guess you will have to stop by The Local Line ;)