Heartbursts

I have some more love for you today—I did a series of four miniature drawings I call “heartbursts,” in celebration of the coming Valentine’s Day and love in general. This was a fun way to bring my patterned drawing style together with the holiday theme to make a larger meaning, mainly, the ever-expanding capacities of the heart.

The heart is such a well-used symbol, that it is a challenge to try and make it new. I’m not sure if newness was even my goal, but more I had a goal of creating something fun that brings a little more creativity and joy to this time and place. I hope these drawings lift you up, or fill you up, or brighten your day. They are available in my shop.

“Heartburst One,” 4 x 4 inches, pen and ink

“Heartburst Two,” 4 x 4 inches, pen and ink

“Heartburst Three,” 4 x 4 inches, pen and ink

“Heartburst Four,” 4 x 4 inches, pen and ink

Love and such

I can’t believe it! I finally got myself in line and actually made something pertaining to a holiday with plenty of time before the actual holiday! Woohoo! Valentine’s Day, here I come!

I know, I know—could you even call Valentine’s Day a holiday? Maybe it is an invented holiday—just an excuse to make us buy more junk. But you have to admit, at it’s base level, the holiday has a good message: tell the people you love that they are important to you.

While we should be doing this everyday, or at least on a regular basis, why not celebrate a day that encourages the giving and sharing of love?

I think perhaps, the holiday has become too focused on romantic love. I believe it should include family and friendship. My fondest memories of Valentine’s Day are from when I was a kid. My parents love the Caribbean, and their idea of the best kind of vacation is relaxing on a sandy beach. So, every winter, up until I was about 10, we went to the Caribbean for two weeks in February. This trip always happened over Valentine’s day, and no matter where we were my dad would trudge across the island looking for three single red roses—one for each of his 3 girls (my mom, me, and my sister).

Most years, my parents still find some way to send me that rose, and it means more to me than any giant bouquet or expensive jewelery could.

So, here’s my first contribution—two cards. You may recognize one of them (the anatomical heart and lungs) from a previous drawing. There will also be some original art on this subject coming soon.

These cards are for sale in sets of 6 over in my shop. Of course, I highly recommend making your own Valentines as well!

Halloween Fun

Since Halloween is nearing, I had a pumpkin carving party. I think carving pumpkins is one of my favorite holiday activities (eating and decorating the Christmas tree come in as a close second and third). As we appreciated our lit pumpkins, we began wondering where this custom even came from. Does anyone have any ideas? Anyway, here they are–mine is the one on the far left.