Countries to Experience
The best countries in the world to experience.
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Wanderlust Patterns: Swedish Folk Collection
Before we went to Sweden, I took in as many books and stories as I could about Swedish culture. Immersing myself in all-things-Swedish really got me excited to explore the country and see if what I had read had merit. One book I read talked about some Swedish folk traditions that I couldn’t wait to draw, the dala horse, love spoons and the traditional folk art style known as kurbits. I loved learning the history of these Swedish art forms. Here are some high level details of each folk tradition I drew below. Kurbits is a form of folk style ornamental painting originating in Dalarna, Sweden. Initially Kurbits motifs were…
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Wanderlust Patterns: Coasta Italia Collection
The towns along the Italian coast are unforgettable. Houses in a harmony of pinks, corals, rusts and golds dot the hillsides and overlook the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. How absolutely dreamy! I created this Coasta Italia collection of illustrations and patterns to celebrate the uniqueness and beauty of this little part of the world. If you are interested in licensing the illustrations or patterns in this collection, please contact me for details.
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On Location: June Packing List – Trekking through Thailand and Free June 2017 Wallpaper
Although monsoon season is just beginning in Thailand in June, it is still the perfect time to visit. The weather isn’t too stifling hot, and with an umbrella in hand and somewhat light crowds, you will be able to trek through Thailand and see amazing sites. From the sparkling Wat Arun along the mighty Chao Phraya river, to Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace with the 66cm tall Emerald Buddha carved from jade, there is a bounty of sacred sites to explore in urban Bangkok. When you are ready to head to the wilderness, hop on a plane north to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai for plenty of incredible treks through…
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Wanderlust Patterns: Mexican Florals
I just love Mexican floral embroidery. The patterns are always so colorful and playful. It almost feels as if the patterns mirror a fiesta! I enjoyed creating this Mexican floral pattern inspired by all those colorful embroidered blouses and dresses. I added a few Aztec-like symbols for added amusement. I could see these patterns strewn across a couch to brighten any room! If you are interested in licensing the illustrations or patterns in this collection, please contact me for details.
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Wanderlust Patterns: Tropical Paradise
Tropical leaves and birds are quite popular right now in textiles, home goods and even clothing. I enjoyed creating a collection of patterns and illustrations in line with this trend. It’s hard to deny the bold patterns, and burst of colors these designs can bring to a space. Of course, this collection is perfect for the summer season, but I can only imagine the smile on one’s face this imagery would bring in the dead of winter. There’s nothing like dreaming of the tropics all year long! If you are interested in licensing the illustrations or patterns in this collection, please contact me for details.
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On Location: Dream Trips – Bucket List World Map
I can’t think of a better map to dream over than a Bucket List World Map! So many places to explore and so little time… Where do you want to go? (For specific details about individual locations, be sure to read: Illustrated Bucket List vol.1 and Illustrated Bucket List vol.2) Please contact me if you are interested buying or licensing this illustration. For more information about my illustration work, see my portfolio.
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Wanderlust Patterns: Bali Om Surface Design and Illustrations
A yoga retreat in Bali is one of those dream vacations I would love to take some day. I will admit, I’m not that adept at yoga, and have only taken a few classes, but the thought of learning more about the benefits of yoga while practicing in a gorgeous location as Bali sounds blissful. While dreaming of this trip, I created some surface design patterns that capture the essence of this location. A colorful print of yoga positions with iconic Bali scenery such as the rice terraces, a meditative hut and the beautiful Taman Ayun Temple in Mengwi; iconic lotus flowers; meditative mandalas; and a rich tye dies fabric…
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On Location: Road Trips – American Road Trip Puzzle with True South Puzzles
I’m so happy to announce the release of my latest licensing project – an American Road Trip Puzzle! I had a wonderful time partnering with True South Puzzle Company of Nashville in creating this art work. Obviously, I love a good road trip, so an illustration of all the different sites one might find on a road trip across the US was just up my alley. The puzzle arrived just in time for spring break and my husband and nephew were eager to give it a go! The both reported that building the border of the puzzle proved to be a good challenge and once they each started on the center, they…
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On Location: April Packing List – Tip Toe Through the Tulips in Holland and Free April 2017 Wallpaper
Have you ever seen the colorful pictures of the tulip fields in Holland during spring time? What a spectacular site! Some day I would love to tip toe through these fields with my sketchbook in hand and capture the scene, and here in this free calendar wallpaper is what I’d wear! Free Calendar Wallpaper – April 2017 Here’s a free April 2017 wallpaper for your desktop computer or iPad to get you inspired for a romantic getaway. To set as your desktop image, just click on the link appropriate for your size monitor or ipad. When the image is in view, on a PC, right click and select “Use Picture as Desktop…
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On Location: March Packing List – Scenic Tour of Ireland and Free March 2017 Wallpaper
March is here, and I’ve been aching to take a trip to Ireland. Yes, I’m sure St. Patrick’s Day has something to do with it, but I also have a huge desire to take a road trip around the country and explore the wild seashore, stay in old castles, wander small villages, and of course drink a tasty stout in Dublin. In dreaming of this trip, I thought it would be fun to come up with an appropriate Spring packing list. There’s still a bite in the air, but nothing a cozy warm Irish sweater won’t take care of. Also, be sure to bring a brightly colored umbrella to ward off any…