Jack-O-Lanterns

I'm afraid my schedule will not permit for me to follow through with a tradition this year. I was really hoping I could redeem myself after last year's atrocious "Loch Ness Monster/Saxophone" fiasco. I've even been carrying carving tools in my purse just in case someone prompts me to create a face without notice. Maybe I should just stick to the paper and pencil pumpkins...they're definitely less messy...but I'll definitely be missing out on the salted pumpkin seeds ;) Have a Happy Halloween!

There and Back Again: Artist Appreciation- Alan Lee

Okay, so I got pretty worked up this past week when I learned that Peter Jackson will be directing the highly anticipated adaptation of The Hobbit. I can finally sleep at night. Oh, and I heard a rumor that Alan Lee, the conceptual artist for The Lord of the Rings trilogy will also be working on this project as well! My only let down is that James McAvoy will not be portraying Bilbo Baggins as I had once hoped. I'm sure I'll live ;) Here are some of Alan Lee's masterpieces that have inspired me.

And here are examples of how he has influenced my work:

JE Connections Logo & Business Card

Album Covers

I've been tinkering around with this cover. Instead of making multiple prints on used SuperOne bags, I figured, why not show the original. What are your thoughts? Do we like the fonts? Does it peak your interest?

Vote,Vote like the Wind

My best friend, Sarah Lindberg is an enormously talented musician. She writes, sings, & plays multiple instruments fluently! She graciously played guitar on a couple songs that I've recorded and has been incredibly supportive of my pursuit in music. Her band, theiDon'tCares ROCKS! Think the female version of The Strokes. I absolutely ADORE her sound! She joined this contest that the clothing store, Maurices is hosting and is already in the Top 50...We would love to keep it that way. Please vote for her if you get a chance. The contest runs until the 15th of November and you can vote once a day here. Thanks a bunch!

Three Irish Girls- Fall Look Book Photo Shoot

The lovely Sharon LePine McMahon invited me to pose for her upcoming look book this season. She owns a company called Three Irish Girls. Those who enjoy knitting can can order darling patterns for chic accessories on this site as well as purchase skeins of hand dyed yarn in the most imaginative and vibrant colours. I was fortunate to be able to wear some of these creations and model the designs at the Prindle Mansion (formerly the John S. Duss Conservatory) and the Historical Fitger's Hotel in Duluth, MN. It was a gorgeous autumn afternoon well spent. I'm so thankful for such an opportunity. If you want a sneak peak of the look book you can visit Sharon's blog, Yarnista or make a purchase or two at her shop, Three Irish Girls . Happy Knitting!

Presenting Select Dance Academy & Performing Arts Center Logo

This past month I was asked to design a new logo for Select Dance Academy & Performing Arts Center located in Shakopee, Minnesota. The ribbon border is meant to represent fluidity and freedom. We chose to use a silhouette of a jazz dancer posing in an arabesque as supposed to a ballerina which is probably more cliche. That flexible model is the talented and soon to be Dr. Katie Phillips. It was a pleasure working with Jennifer and I hope this final product reflects her original vision. You can learn more about her studio here: http://selectdance.com/default.aspx

'The Complete Jane Austen' advertisement

This advertisement aired after Masterpiece Classic on PBS a few years ago. It hasn't failed to evoke emotion from me. What a splendid song to pair the footage with. It's "Fix You" by Coldplay in case you were wondering.