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 ...

Dear Andy.. Love Mick, X

Admittedly I wasn't around in the heady, laissez-faire days of music sleeve artwork in the late 60's and for artistic reasons how I wish I was. In fact, how I wish I was for financial reasons too judging by this letter.. Maybe this is an extreme example of a collaboration between two (in the words of Andy Wahol) 'Superstars'. However, within my short career creating sleeve artwork things have definitely changed. I seem to reflect more and more on my first few Campaigns with a large pair of rose tinted specs. This is not to say that my joy and love for making pictures to be used in this fashion, has diminished in any way... it is still incredibly rewarding.

It's a 'Nash Up'..