Atsushi Kitagawara

A small diversion from printing to tell of one of my (what felt like hourly..) inspiring experiences in beautiful Japan. Whilst exploring the Japanese Alps we took in the Keith Haring Museum at Nakamura. Admittedly I've never been a huge fan of Mr Haring, but this experience projected him in a whole new light. Housed within woods by the mind blowing Architecture of Atsushi Kitagawara, this private collection of Harings works couldn't have felt more enticing.

'All your favourites.. in miniature'

Back in the days where I still regarded the word blog as a typo, my work featured in a smashing illustration-bible-type-affair aptly titled 'The Picture Book'. This September will see it reissued by publishers Laurence King, but this time its pocket sized. Well almost..

Studio Flowers..

The arrival of an absolutely beautiful bunch of flowers this week gives me an excuse to show my new studio space to you too.. Thanks Dear, X

'Tokyo Graphic Passport'

I've begun to realise to my own annoyance, that personally I am a little full of contradictions. A prolific one is the fact that I'm terrified of public speaking, which shrinks me to the status of a twitching, plum faced, incoherent wreck of an artist. Unless that is, I'm invited out of the UK to perform..! Presto, then it all seems kind of bearable. Last year saw me in Sydney to be part of the 'Semi-Permanent' design conference. I loved it so much I stayed six weeks. Next month sees my return to Tokyo, this time to participate at their 'Tokyo Graphic Passport' . I've rarely felt so inspired by a city in such a short amount of time. My previous two visits left me eager to return at any available opportunity. I simply can't wait. Just don't mention the 'talk'... eurgh.

Two of my most recent commissions have involved me addressing the issue of type, as well as illustration. It's too early to spill the beanz but I'm quite excited, albeit prematurely, at the thought of the published result. Once my initial anxieties had dispersed and I started to tackle the task ahead, I even managed to enjoy it. Always a good feeling.

Birthday Cards..

On reflection, the majority of this years blogging has featured Kate Nash's Campaign.

Above is an alternate Cover test, used up eventually within the Album Packaging. Below is a silkscreen of Fluffy, described by Kate herself as her bestfriend. Aw!

Creative Review, 'Illustration Annual 2010'

Phew! I made it ...