Hallmark & Ringling

2009-09-29T20:13:00.000-07:00

Halloween promotional piece! It is the latest, greatest idea that has come up...Well, at least I am enjoying it. Making it was actually a lot of fun!!

2009-09-29T20:11:00.001-07:00

I am feeling festive on account of the weather change! Comments welcome....:D

Faith

2009-04-03T10:24:00.001-07:00

I had some problems resolving the texture, but I am pretty happy with the way it looks. I had a lot of fun seeing everyone's cards and it was great working with David, Daniel and Sam. Hopefully we will see you again next year, the workshop was so educational.

Freefalling Penguins

2009-03-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

School has been pretty hectic with Thesis and all lately and I just realized I never got around to posting my card. Sorry about that. Here it is. If anyone has text suggestions PLEASE feel free.

2009-03-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

we had a self promotional project in my computer illustration class and I decided to do gift wrap. I thought it would go nicely with the naked old man birthday card. Enjoy!

-John S.

tada!

2009-03-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here ya go guys! Hope you enjoy. :D

Again thanks so much for the workshop.
Can't wait to hear what you guys think.
~Kelly

12 more....

2009-03-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone -

The cards are looking great, we're still looking for 12 more cards! We would still really like to see your finished cards posted...Kendra, Lauren, Katie, Kelly, Michelle, Cassie, Liz, Fala, April, Franchesca , Heather, and Shannon. Yes, you! Please encourage each other to do so.

We would also like to see some pictures if you guys end up having a show of these....someone with a camera :)

hello again!

2009-03-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

Here's my card. (I actually just re-posted it because I played around with it a bit more.) The workshop was a lot of fun and I learned sooo much! Thanks for taking the time to share your creativity with all of us.
~Jeanette

Card Final

2009-03-04T16:41:00.000-08:00

Hey hey here's the final card design. I want to thank everyone for all the helpful feedback I received while working on this card, it really made a difference in the end. The workshop was a lot of fun and I learned so much. I hope you guys keep coming back.

Everyone's card came out great.

Donut stop the awesome

2009-03-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

Here are my silly donut girls, having a good old time.

I looked through my other ideas and decided to take one concept a step further.. (pun so intended)

Thanks again for all your help and kindness in conducting this workshop for us. It has been a great learning experience! ]

Schin Loong
[ schin-art.com ]
[ schin-art.blogspot.com ]
[ schin@schin-art.com ]

hurray!

2009-03-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast the workshop went by! I had so much fun and everything we learned was so great. I am still excited about getting to meet and work with you all!

here are my two revisions of my red card- I changed the word intriguing. I think it works much better! I am still open to suggestions if anyone has any. in the first one, I left the bird's feet the same and in the second one I changed them slightly...I can't wait to hear what you think!

Yeah..........

2009-03-02T11:10:00.000-08:00

........... that says it all. Keep in touch I want to see more of your amazing work.

David

Thank you and keep posting!

2009-03-02T10:50:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone...

Just a little follow up to let you know we're looking for your finished cards. We had a great time with you guys and were really happy with all the work you did. We can't wait to show you off to our fellow Hallmarkers. We just wanted to encourage you all to post your finished work if you haven't already, and to keep in touch with us through this blog.

Thanks again, you were a great group!
Sam, David, and Daniel

Deliciously Done!

2009-03-01T20:24:00.000-08:00

Allo again! Here's some of the changes I made to my card, with a new text... I think it works out well. I wanted to keep the inside simple and cute, and with lots of signature space, but does it look too simple? Hmm... I believe I remember Sam requesting to see some of my gestures as well, and I have yet to find any so I think I'll make some in figure painting class this week.
Anyways, thanks for all the help and fun~

2009-02-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! I hope you guys had a safe trip home! Here's my card with all its revisions (harder edges on the earth, knocking back the outlines of the hearts..)

This year's workshop was such a wonderful experience. I feel so refreshed and inspired from all the creativity. Thank you for taking the time to share your passion with us!

~Abby

Thank You!!

2009-02-27T17:37:00.000-08:00

This year's workshop was really awesome! I'm so glad we were able to learn even more about the process that an artist at Hallmark goes through and to get such valuable feedback. I really hope that the workshop will be continued for future students at Ringling!

I made the suggested adjustments to my card design but I would love to know if you think it needs any other changes. -- I adjusted the water to fit with the purples in the color scheme and also lightened the heart/sun on the front. Please let me know what you think :) I also wanted to make sure you got to see the deer I drew in my sketchbook on the 2nd night.

Thank you again for everything!
Jess

Finished Card!

2009-02-27T14:05:00.000-08:00

So I'm missing the workshop like crazy already and sad about how fast it went by. You guys inspired me so much and the wealth of knowledge you shared is still sinking in. Greatest experience of my life? I think so. Anyways, onto the finished card!

Looking forward to seeing you guys in the (hopefully) near future. Thank you so much for giving us such a wonderful experience.

(product) RED Christmas card!

2009-02-26T21:47:00.000-08:00

Hello one last time! Here's the card, with the revisions made - the smoke of the flame more resolved, the gradient on the stardust subtly utilizing two colors instead of one, and the stars drawn more lively-like.

This workshop was one of the most exciting and inspiring opportunities I've been able to partake of here at Ringling! Thank you so much for offering your time and experience to help us out, and I'm looking forward to communicating with you in the future!

Final

2009-02-26T15:24:00.000-08:00

The top one was my final version and I took the suggestions that were made last night and created a couple more variations with color. I look forward to hearing what you guys think.

Again, thank you so much for such an awesome learning experience.
I had a great time and hope to do it again next year.

Solution

2009-02-26T08:23:00.001-08:00

This was my solution for a lot of text (it was too cute to pass up)! After a few suggestions made last night, I fixed the moon and added the final flourish on the top left. I am really pleased with the final result! Can't wait to hear your thoughts.

Thank you so much for taking the time to help, encourage, and inspire us!! It was wonderful to work with you. Have a safe trip home!!

2009-02-25T20:23:00.000-08:00

this is for the shoe box folks! My final solution for the project. The workshop was a blast, thank you to all who made it possible!

-john starr

first night

2009-02-24T06:52:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

Thanks for a great start to the workshop! It was awesome to meet all of you.

As we promised, here's a short recap of your assignment that we'll be working on for the next couple of days.

- Last night you should have identified some pieces of writing that spoke to you.

- Now we're going to work towards developing one solid concept for a complete card package.

- You will then take that concept to a finished card. It will be fully illustrated, designed and if possible mocked up.

- The lettering treatment could be type set or hand lettered depending on your conceptual direction.

- The way in which you execute your idea is up to you. There are no restrictions on media or approach. Bear in mind that ultimately we would also like to see your results posted on the blog for future reference.

- We will be available to answer questions and coach you through the entire process of creating an AWESOME card package ( as all good art directors do).

We look forward to seeing you again tonight- same bat time, same bat channel.

Sam, David, and Daniel

P.S. please remember to bring your sketchbooks. :)

2009-02-23T07:24:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! My name is Liz Mytinger and I'm a junior illustration major at ringling. My styles vary from more realistic to cute and graphic. And like everyone I'm very excited about the workshop. Here are two cards I made for a valentine card assignment.

Mah Turn

2009-02-22T20:49:00.000-08:00

My name is Kendra Melton, I'm a 4th year Illustration student. I would describe my work as constantly evolving, from subtle to vibrant, rendered to simplistic. I enjoy experimenting with new techniques both digital and traditional, and especially combining the two.

See ya soon :D

My dog ate my concept of time.

2009-02-22T15:50:00.000-08:00

Hello All! I'm very sorry for posting so late, I've been a bit busy with schoolwork and generally nervous to post. My name is Franchesca Gomez and I'm a Junior Illustration Major at Ringling. I don't know what I'm doing here but I plan to make the most of it!

=)

2009-02-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Hello! My name is Katie Bellinder and I am currently a senior illustrator at Ringling. Sorry for the lateness in posting, I have been in Chicago for the week. I am actually in the airport as we speak waiting to fly back to SRQ =) I am super excited for this workshop and am honored to be working with such creative individuals. I like crafty type things. Such as, papers, patterns, textures, fabrics, and the occasional glitter and ribbon. My senior thesis is actually making a series of greeting cards and I'm having a lot of fun with it! I look forward to learning some awesome things from Hallmark. Look forward to seeing everybody Monday night!

why hello there.

2009-02-21T20:26:00.001-08:00

my name is mira lark and I am a senior at ringling, majoring in illustration. I enjoy making people happy- which is my main goal with my artwork. I am super excited about the workshop this year, as I have heard many good things about it in the past. I am really happy I get to be a part of it, and I look forward to learning lots of new things and hopefully getting a fresh view of the world through the eyes of hallmark :D

I can't wait to see everyone there!

Hey Hey

2009-02-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

Hello, my name is Patrick Richardson. I'm currently a senior illustrator at Ringling College with a minor in visual development. In my work I like to play around with shapes and size to bring a unique look to things we see everyday. I've always heard great things about the workshop and I'm excited to finally participate this year. I look forward to learning and working with everyone in the workshop.

2009-02-20T19:27:00.000-08:00

Hello all! My name is Sarah Marino and I am a senior illustration major at Ringling. I'm ecstatic for the workshop next week and am looking forward to creating with all of you. I love sketching, reading literature, and my dogs.

My work is generally very quiet and subtle; I prefer to let the images start the dialogue so others can finish it themselves. I'm anxious to experiment and play at the workshop!

Can't wait till Monday~

Hi everybody!

2009-02-20T09:24:00.000-08:00

My name is Daniel Miyares. I'm a senior illustrator at Hallmark Cards and I've been doing illustratorly things there for the past six years. The workshop is going to be great. I'm super excited to have an opportunity to work with such a talented bunch of students. Can't wait to meet everyone face to face. In the mean time, here's a few examples of some of my work for the crown.

This is an animation experiment that David Pjecha and I worked on for a common area display at Hallmark.

Greetings!

2009-02-20T08:54:00.001-08:00

Hi I'm Jeslyn. I'm a senior illustrator this year!! Embarrassingly enough, I think I am one of the last people to post! Sorry about the tardiness here! Anyhoo, I am excited about this workshop business. It is going to be such a great experience working with new people and new techniques.

This semester, I have been focusing mainly on my thesis (I took off a nice chunk); however, the images above are the things I have managed to do on the side!! I look forward to seeing you on Monday!

Hello Hallmarkers!

2009-02-19T09:47:00.000-08:00

My name is Heather Bickel and I am a junior Illustrator at Ringling. I'm very excited about the upcoming workshop, can't believe I got in. I love drawing animals and plants, and I am always intrigued by anything with texture. Sometimes the way something feels can make all the difference in quality. I love working in 3D. Paper folding, woodwork, you name it. I've been experimenting with digital collage recently and having a lot of fun with it.

Hiya Everybody!

2009-02-19T07:42:00.000-08:00

Hey! I'm also a newbie to the workshop and am super pumped! I can't wait to meet you all and get our creative muscles workin'. I'm excited to see what Hallmark has in store for us.

A little about me: For those that don't know me, my name is Kelly Tudor and I am a junior illustrator. My work is relatively realistic and I love color and lately I am working on pushing my values to be the backbone of my illustrations. I also really enjoy unlikely cute things; like two dirty socks in the laundry basket that look like they're hugging (I think I'll go draw that now :D)

Here's a couple of my pieces, enjoy! :)

Soo Excited!!

2009-02-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

Hi hi! My name's April Rowland and I'm a senior illustrator. I love colors and shapes...and animals (they always sneak into my work). I enjoy communicating a direct message with my images audience, and combining bright, bold shapes and patterns. More and more I've been trying to incorporate text and patterns into my work and experimenting. I have an addiction to illustrator but I love media and trying new things with it!

This will be my first year attending the workshop (admitedly, I was too scared to submit anything last year, lost a lot of good oppurtunities because of that silly fear) and I look forward to working with ya'll!

Thanks!

howdy!

2009-02-18T23:12:00.000-08:00

My name is Matt Crotts, and I'm a senior Illustration major here at Ringling. I'm something of a chameleon with my illustration work - I love to do just about anything art-related, so long as it's built to connect with people and contributing to the bridges of communication!

I've been looking forward to this workshop ever since this time last year, when I didn't get in to the previous session :(
Since that time, I've been working towards putting together a body of work that is more genuinely indicative of Hallmark's top-tier styles and appreciations, while still honest to the range of expression that moves me.

These are a few of the pieces that I've done, mostly in thorough anticipation of applying to work in the greeting card industry. I keep my website well updated with my larger body of work, in case you are curious about what else I'll be looking forward to showing you next Monday.

See you soon!

hello.

2009-02-18T19:01:00.000-08:00

hello. My name is Jeanette and I think it goes without saying, but I'm super EXCITED! This will be my first time at the workshop. I hope to learn some crazy awesome new stuff =)
Lately, I've been zoning in on my thesis. The images I've posted are a little sneak peak of some of my progress. Feel free to check out my blog for more art. Enjoy, and see you soon!
~Jeanette

Looks like a great class............

2009-02-18T11:36:00.000-08:00

My name is David Pjecha and I am a Senior Illustrator with Hallmark and a co-leader of the Illustration Workshop. This is my fourth year doing the workshop and I 'm excited about this years group of artists. The workshop is always fun because you all are so creative..................... can't wait to get started and see what everyone does.
I've posted a few examples of recent work. I have a range of style to my illustration, this is just a sample of how I'm working now.

I like trying new things and exploring. I also like when things change so my work is always evolving.

Counting down the days...

2009-02-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. I'm Samantha Lewis, one of the Hallmarkers giving the workshop. I graduated from Ringling in 2005, right before major construction on the student life building. All I got was a bulldozed mound of dirt my senior year. I can't believe the changes! You are all very fortunate to have even more resources, not to mention a gym.

This will be my third year working with Ringling students in a workshop. I love the work I'm seeing posted on the blog, and I'm really excited to work with you all. We just love seeing your sketchbooks so don't forget to bring those along to the workshop.

I have some personal work and such on my blog, PencilPop, that I share with my husband.

2009-02-17T02:57:00.000-08:00

Hello hello art children!

My name's John Starr and I am a junior illustrator. I am extremely excited for this workshop and cannot wait to be working alongside such creative thinkers. I'm very thankful to be given this opportunity to create some great pieces as well as learn where my style can be most successful in the real world. By nature I find humor and offbeat art most appealing. I am mostly satisfied with plain line-work and minimal color. I also love adding text, or some sort of story to the piece to better illustrate the image. If the drawing can make you laugh then to me it's a success. I'll be picking up my cards this week and i'll see you all this monday! woo!

Greetings!

2009-02-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

Heey, so many awesome styles here, this should be fun!
Me, personally, I love working collage or dimensional elements into my illustration. And I also can be found personalizing knick knacks and home decor because I grew up crafting everything I could get away with so it was more pretty! (Though I'm beyond the glitter glue and poster paints now...) I found I enjoy anything that involves some form of thread as well (bookbinding, crochet, jewelery, embroidery)
Onto the visuals!

Who's awesome? You're awesome.

2009-02-16T21:50:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

I'm Schin Loong (pronounced 'chin long') and I'm so stoked about the workshop. It will be a thrill to work and learn with people of such diverse styles and awesomeness.

Artworks that have a little story to tell and a little emotion to share always melts my heart.
Twist and surprises in an illustration makes my spine tingle!
It is therefore my joy and mission to melt and tingle every time I create something new :)!

Looking forward to seeing you next week,

Schin Loong
schin-art.com
schin@schin-art.com

woohooo!!!

2009-02-16T20:24:00.000-08:00

Has it REALLY been a year??!! Hi everyone! I'm super excited for the workshop and I am honored to be included in such an amazing group of talented people. I like crafty type things, like textures, papers, patterns and I have a current obsession with mechanical type things. We're going to have a blast all packed in Roskamp 2.....there's so much creativity bouncing around it's going to rock (or like in Lauren's post: rock your socks!!)

See y'all soon!!!

~Abby

Blog
www.ahmarie.com

<3

2009-02-16T15:27:00.000-08:00

Why hello there, everyone~! I'm pretty pumped about this workshop (I've never done one before X3;) and can't wait to see more of everyone's art. I love color, collaborative work, monsters, and games. I'm a Junior Illustrator with a minor in Visual Development. Anyway, here's a little Valentine action going on...
Aaaaaaand some of my favorite holiday...

~Christina Ellis

Huzzah it's Hallmark!

2009-02-16T15:19:00.001-08:00

Hallmark and my fellow Ringlingers, this is such an exciting opportunity! For those of you who I have not met yet, my name is Lauren Kay Leffingwell! I am very much looking forward to creating some fabulous illustrations and items during this upcoming workshop. I love creating things that pop-up as well as illustrations so I have included a sample of each! I look forward to meeting everyone (and seeing some of my favorite faces as well!)
(it's a me! Lauren Kay!)

a page in my sketch book (and you know it's true)

Colour me excited

2009-02-16T10:58:00.000-08:00

Allo allo! Firstly, I implore that everyone forgive me if I mess this up as I am still a trifle new to Blogger . . . Either way, however, I am very much looking forward to the workshop. I love art that is more than a pretty face and has something else to say. Don't get me wrong, I definitely love pretty art, but I love it all the more when it has a message or a story to tell. Art as a means of communication is what I like, and I'm terrifically excited about the opportunity to explore it further in this workshop.

So, yes. Art. Well, here is the cover of the children's book I completed last term;

And an interior illustration (this one folds out to a spread four pages wide)

Thanks, everyone. I can't wait to get started.

Hello loves!

2009-02-16T10:52:00.001-08:00

Hi there~! My name's Michelle and i'm a junior illustrator. <3

Definitely excited for the workshop. It's an awesome opportunity and i'm glad I could be a part of it. Congratulations to everyone who made it in!

And since it was just V-day:

First timer.

2009-02-16T09:26:00.001-08:00

Hey there, I'm new to the whole workshop thing but I'm really excited! I went to hallmark twice this past weekend and already picked up my cards. Its really great to have this opportunity and I can't wait for next week.

Hello again!

2009-02-11T14:36:00.000-08:00

Hello again everyone! I'm really excited about the workshop this year and can't wait to see what we'll be doing. I'm still really inspired by the things I listed last year like the now 3 year old I babysit, and all of God's creations. I love stationery, color, and really truly, not just saying it for Hallmark, making things for other people to show my love for them. I like making projects that are really involved and thematic, but almost always with a purpose of actual use to them. Not just a pretty picture for nothing-- but that can be useful and cherished.

Anyways, thank you again for this awesome opportunity!

Jess

jkelly@c.ringling.edu
www.jessicawillett.net

Pregnancy Book and Journal

2008-04-04T08:12:00.000-07:00

This is a more resolved packaging design for the pregnancy book. I included some pockets that will hold the stickers, greeting cards, envelopes, and the measuring tape for the belly chart. I am currently working on it. I will appreciate any suggestions you may have to do the adjustments necessary to the design.
The book is almost done. I Will post some pages for you to see the type choices I made.
Thanks for the time to see my progress.
Luisa

Ornament Update

2008-03-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've finished sculpting the first ornament, but my next step is to paint this one. I'm really happy with the way this one is turning out, though I'm not sure how well I'm going to be able to keep this whole gift a surprise for my husband. He's around me all the time at home of course and I can't really hide what I'm working on too easily. We'll see...

Jessica <3

2008-03-27T09:50:00.001-07:00

Thank you again for coming to Ringling to do the workshop. I had such a great time, and I'm very happy I was able to participate in the workshop this year. (Also sorry for the delay in posting, I was having posting difficulties). Now that I am engaged I have certain social responsibilities...and that's what I used for my concept. Lately my fiance and I have been invited to many barbecues, which always end up being a bit fancier then what I except a BBQ to be. So why not go all out! I would love to have a cheeky parody BBQ some day...by making it ultra-high class. I played around with the idea of butlers, His and Hers apron sets, hot dog charms for the wine glasses, and ketchup mixed in with booze bottles. Theres still much more to do, but so far it's all been lots of fun. :)

Still excited!

2008-03-20T04:30:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! First of all, again, thank you, thank you, thank you for the awesome time at the workshop. I really learned a lot and had a great time. I really hope to get to do it again next year! I'm still really excited about the special occasion gift concept, and have already begun work in making it a reality. My concept was to create a dream chest for my husband's and my first anniversary that would have two sections: "Dreams" and "Come True." It would contain Christmas ornaments that I've made to represent dreams that we've already accomplished together, and the ones that we have for our future together. This would become a tradition for our family to create new ornaments/dreams together as our lives progress, and as they come true the compartment that they would be kept in would change. My husband will really like the idea of having a family centered activity for a tradition and much less of a focus on gifts, because the commercialization of Christmas really bothers him. I decided to change the container from a chest that would most likely be put away, to a display style case that could be hung in our home all year round. My husband is a glazier and could build the physical case for me with nice glass doors, this way he can be involved in making the gift for me too. The rest would still be kept as a surprise, and I plan to also use his work's resources to sandblast the imagery I've planned as a border on the glass. It will feature a roller coaster theme with the two of us in our cart together on this "ride" of life. It will hold the ornaments on either shelves or hooks, I have to see which is more practical still. I've begun work on one of the ornaments representing our wedding, as just the two of us in a romantic bent over kiss. I sketched another of us in Cinderella's coach (we were married at Disney) which I may create as well. Other ornaments I plan to make are for our graduation together from high school (where we met), film reels representing our love for movies and our job at the movie theatre together in high school, a book that can open to read the poem that he wrote for me that was published. And for future dreams of ours I plan to make one representing all of the places we've been and would like to go, one for my diploma from Ringling, "the yellow house" represents our dream house, something to represent his desire to go into and study for ministry, as well as a little oven that opens with a bun inside it for when we decide to have our first child. So sorry for the long run on sentences, and explanation, but it's pretty involved! I love challenges like this though! ^_^ Anyhow, thanks again, and I'll definitely be posting updates and results! Our anniversary is June 10th, so I suppose that's my deadline!

Jessica Willett

Hi!

2008-03-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

In the workshop I came up with this kit in the shape of a military trunk, of things that would help a little girl deal with and understand her parents deployment in the military। The outside of the box is a advent like box that helps her to count down the last month until her dad comes home. Inside each drawer would be a little toy or piece of candy. Giving her something to look forward to each day. Inside the box there is a map, that she could draw on and mark up that shows her where she is and where her dad is. To the right of that is a place where she can put picture of her and her dad or of their family. There’s also a place for pre-made post cards that she can draw pictures on. Some of them have sentence on them such as “look at our home!”, “this is our family”, “look at what I did today!”. All typical things that a little girl would draw about as well as a couple or cards with more than one page in them so that they can have an on going card between them. The last thing is a tape recorder and some blank tapes. This way she can send the tapes to her dad and he can listen to them and hear her voice. He can reply back to them and then she can hear his voice whnever she likes.

2008-03-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

During the workshop, I wanted to create something special for my sister- in-law which is currently expecting my brother’s first baby. In the process, I decided to create a pregnancy book & journal. Thinking about today’s working women, and knowing my sister-in-law’s busy schedule, I wanted this book to be helpful and easy to use. One page will include family information, and important dates like the expected delivery day. This book will include a customized calendar to keep track of her doctors appointments. A section for a belly chart and collage page to include pictures of her belly as it grows. It will also provide pages for her weekly entries, pictures ,and sonograms. It will include facts on the fetus development on a weekly basis.
The Box will lay flat when opened, and it’s cover will hold it together when closed. The interior of the box will provide pockets to include small greeting cards, and scrap booking items like adhesive, and stickers. I look forward for the project to continue to grow from here. I will design the greeting card to announce whether it’s a boy or girl, and the items for the baby shower including invitations, booklet and more.
Once again, I want to thank you for the opportunity to participate in the workshop and dedicating your time to us. It was a great creative environment.
Luisa Lizarralde
llillustrations@gmail.com http://llillustrations.blogspot.com/

Hiya!

2008-03-17T22:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks again for coming and doing the workshop. I think the pre-assignment was very successful.
I have to admit, though, that I am double dipping in a way on this project. I wanted to help my brother with his show but I wasn't really sure how to do that, and I also wanted to give him a graduation gift because he's been at school for six years now. He's struggled a lot with self promotion and getting himself out there. In doing this project, I ended up creating a sort of identity for his DJ Cutlet alias, and I really want to get as many of these ideas created as possible, and give it to him as a graduation present before I leave here - perfect timing, because I am flying to New York to see his show right after I graduate. He's seen the poster because he needs to go ahead and get them printed and posted up - he loved it. :)

So, here's my finished poster and project suite-

I'll keep you posted as I get more of it done!

No dump trucks :P

2008-03-16T09:39:00.001-07:00

For my concept I wanted to make something I would give my boyfriend after we got engaged. It would be a set of three books. One a cookbook (all handmade by me) with some recipes, room to write the experience of the recipe and then space for new recipes we use, find or create together. The second book would be a spice book,containing the most common used spices, what to do with them, shelf life and some fun facts and history. The third book will be about herbs and along the same lines as the spice book. Also I will give him the actual spices in magnetic tins that go on metal bars for the kitchen. On the back of the tins I will make labels for a quick reference for that spice, what dishes to put it in and all that... I really enjoyed the workshop and all the creativity!! Thank you again!

Hello > Goodbye!

2008-03-15T19:50:00.001-07:00

Hello and goodbye both! The workshop has ended, so I feel now is a super-ultra prime time to introduce myself!

I'm Kate, a senior illustrator, and it was nice meeting everyone new and seeing old faces both--the workshop was a valuable experience and I am glad I got to share it with all of you!

My influences are quite simply anything fun and bright--I love monsters, robots, science, and children. Or some combination of the above! I hope to see everyone again, and I certainly hope to see more in our workshop projects posted to this blog!

If for some reason you ever need to track me down or want to check out more art stuffs, here we go : katedwiggins@gmail.com and http://katedwiggins.blogspot.com/

Hi!

2008-03-12T20:05:00.000-07:00

Hi my name is Dustin d’Arnault and I am very excited to work with you this week.

My inspirations run from illustrators like Robert E. McGinnis, Sam Weber and Sterling Hundley to sequential artists such as Mike Mignola, Paul Pope and Alex Toth. I look forward to seeing everybody at the workshop.

Take care,

you can see more of my stuff here

Hiya!

2008-03-12T11:13:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! My name is Tiffany Bogus and I'm a senior Illustration major at Ringling. I'm really looking forward to this workshop, I think it will be a fun and valuable experience. I enjoy working in a whimsical style and am often inspired by cartoons and children's books from the 1950s and '60s. If you'd like to see more of my work, please check out my blog at http://tbogus.blogspot.com/.

Thanks, and see you soon!

Hi

2008-03-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Kristine Russ. I'm a senior graphic designer. I'm really looking forward to the workshop and getting to learn more about Hallmark and what you do! My interests are in print and packaging design. I also have a growing interest in motion graphics.

Here is a link to my blog:

http://kristineruss.blogspot.com/

Hi everyone!

2008-03-09T03:25:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Luis Espinosa, and I am a senior illustrator. I am really excited about the workshop, and I can't wait to learn more about Hallmark. I know it will be a lot of fun. My inspirations are Victorian floral patterns and textures. I am also inspired by ancient Mexican art and artists like: Lane Smith, Ragnar, Audrey Kawasaki, Jeff Miracola, and all my friends at Ringling.

To check out more of my work click here.

Hello!!

2008-03-08T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! My name is Robyn, and I am a senior illustrator. Thanks for putting up this blog! I am really excited for this workshop and can't wait to get started!

My biggest inspirations are Grimm's fairy tales, vintage photographs, and high fashion. My favorite artists are Arthur Rackham, Edmund Dulac, and Lisbeth Zwerger.

See you all later!

How do you do?

2008-03-04T13:49:00.000-08:00

Hi! My name is Jane Radstrom, I'm a senior Illustration major. Thank you for the opportunity to learn from you guys! This should be loads of fun.

Some inspirations: loose and painterly artists like Whistler, Sargent, and the Russian Impressionists; Graphic Design - I love to look at type; I better throw in the culinary arts, too, seeing as my thesis is writing and illustrating a cookbook. My favorite ways to unwind are to curl up with a good book, paint landscapes outdoors, or bake something yummy. Some more work is posted on my blog: janerad.blogspot.com

Nice to meet you, I can't wait to get started!

getting started

2008-03-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

It's kinda cool to see the blog come to life with all the new materials you've added. Thanks. It's helpful to see your work and read the comments. You're a very talented group of students and this years workshop should be great.
Well.......... the workshop begins next week and we want to give the first assignment so you have some time to work on it.

The assignment: Concept three different ideas for celebrating or sharing a special occasion for a meaningful person in your own life. Consider using any media form. Be very creative. Think “blue sky”, anything’s possible. Concepts should reflect the nature of your relationship and shared connection.
Thoughtfulness matters.

This assignment is all about your ideas. A sketch or concept board should be enough for review. Just do enough to get your concept across. We will critique the work on the first night of the workshop.

Even though this is a Hallmark workshop do not limit your concepts to greeting card solutions. In fact we are more interested in new and different ideas that are meaningful to you.

Have Fun.

Hello Everyone!!!

2008-03-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

Hi, my name is Oliver Dominguez and I'm a senior illustrator. I’m really excited to get this opportunity to be in a Hallmark workshop with highly professional artist. My inspirations are Howard Pyle, N.C. Wyeth, Norman Rockwell, and living artist that I meet that really inspired me with their knowledge is Sterling Hundley, Jon Foster, and Mark English. I look forward to seeing everyone in a couple of weeks.

To see more of my work visit:
www.artoftalon.blogspot.com

HI

2008-03-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

Hi, my name is Gail Veillette and I'm a senior illustrator. I can't wait for the workshop. My biggest inspirations are children's books from the 50s and 60s, Mary Blair, Miroslav Sasek, and Charley Harper. I look forward to seeing everyone in a couple of weeks.

To see more of my work visit:
http://gailk.blogspot.com
www.gailveillette.com

2008-03-03T12:50:00.000-08:00

Hello, I am Luisa Lizarralde, a Senior Illustrator.
I am really excited about participating in the workshop for the first time.
During the last two years I had a growing interest for surface designs and illustrations targeted to children. I am looking forward to gain some knowledge from this great learning experience.
I will see you all soon!

To see more of my artwork vist www.llillustrations@blogspot.com

2008-03-03T06:55:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, my name is Andrea Bowman a junior Illustrator, and I can't wait for the workshop, I know it will be so inspiring! I'm so excited and grateful to be given the opportunity and can't wait to start. I am inspired by pattern and simplicity.

Here is my blog to see more of what I do: andreabowman4.blogspot.com

Thank you again

let's be friends

2008-03-02T00:38:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. I'm Erin McGuire, I did the workshop last year and had a great time! I'm a senior illustration major, I drink lots of tea, don't eat enough vegetables, and I work/prettymuchlive in the library on campus. As far as inspiration, my big three are Lisbeth Zwerger (whom I got to talk to on the phone and she's awesome), Paul Pope, and Tadahiro Uesugi. I like to pull inspiration from a lot of sources, and incorporate strong design whenever possible.

And here is a link to my blog.

I look forward to seeing you all in a few weeks :)

-Erin

good times

2008-03-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

Hi, my name is Trish Tatman and I'm a senior graphic designer at Ringling. All my roommates were in the workshop last year, so when I heard it was opened up to the graphic designers this year I jumped at the chance. This is just a smattering of some recent work, along with a collage from a past sketchbook. Personally, I'm inspired by lots of things, but lately I've been really into vinyl toys, 50's advertising, and fashion design. Can't wait to meet everyone at the workshop!

Oh yeah, and you can find my blog right here.

hi!

2008-03-01T18:17:00.001-08:00

Hello, I'm Sarah Watts and I'm a senior illustrator. This blog is a really good idea! This will be my second time attending the workshop, and I am excited to go again.

I am inspired by all of the crazy people in this world and their many
surprises. Aside from that, I like new experiences, antique shops and I
love watching The Office.

Click here for my blog. Thanks again for visiting us at Ringling.

Hello ^_^

2008-03-01T11:10:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, my name is Jessica, and I can't wait for the workshop! I feel so blessed to have been given this opportunity. I left a comment before about this, but here is the address to my web album if anyone's interested: http://picasaweb.google.com/jessicanaved
I am inspired by the 2 year-old girl I babysit, all things Disney, God's creations, especially the sky and intricate trees silouhetted in the sky, and pretty much just cuteness in general.

Thanks so much again!

Jessica

Hi!!

2008-03-01T04:47:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! My name is Abby and I am a Junior from Sarasota. I can't wait for the workshop to start, it's going to be so much fun! Things that inspire me: fabric, old children's books and pretty paper. I also like to look at artist's blogs more than what is considered healthy. Good food is inspiring too. To see my thoughts, process and other work visit my blog:
http://rsadarmadillo.blogspot.com
Looking forward to meeting everyone!

2008-02-29T21:23:00.000-08:00

Hello! I'm Arrolynn. Thanks for putting together this blog, I'm really excited about the workshop! I missed out last year and I'm glad I can participate this time. I love and collect children's books, and have recently started a collection of greeting cards. My blog site is http://arrolynngw.blogspot.com/. Looking forward to seeing everyone!

Hello!

2008-02-29T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hallo, thank you for inviting us all to this blog! I got to do the workshop last year and I am really excited to do it again. I'm Sarah C. (or Cateris) from Texas. Things that inspire me (other than standard artists) are movies by Miyazaki, blips of overheard conversations as people walk by, and Ren & Stimpy.
More of my work is at my blog, which is here.

Thanks again and see you soon!

2008-02-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody, my name is Daniel Miyares. I've been an illustrator at Hallmark for just over five years now. I'm also a Ringling alum. The workshop's going to be great. We've been blown away by you guys in the past. I'm really excited about it. Above is a few pieces of art I've done for various product here at the mothership. Looking forward to meeting everyone. See you in March.

YAY.

2008-02-01T09:38:00.000-08:00

I'm Samantha Grasso (Sam). I graduated from Ringling in 2005 and I've been at Hallmark for 2.5 years. I'm really looking forward to doing another workshop with you guys - I was really impressed and inspired by the work I saw last time. Here's some of my recent work!

H E L L O

2008-02-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

..... My name is David Pjecha and I've been with Hallmark for XXI years................ in Roman reckoning. I've done a couple of these workshops in the past and I really enjoy working with you guys. Here are a some examples of my stuff. I like going to new places and trying new things creatively....my work is always changing.

2008-01-30T15:05:00.000-08:00

The Hallmark creative workshop is set for March 13, 14, and 15. This year we will be developing visual content for a variety of product applications. It should be fun, challenging and informative. Mark your calendars.

We want to take this opportunity to get to know you. If you are going to be joining us in the workshop, you will be receiving an invitation to post to this blog. Take a little time to tell us about who you are, where you're from, what influences you creatively, your goals and anything else that describes you. Post some of your work. If you have a link to a personal site or blog you could post that too.- We're curious.

We're looking forward to working with you all.

David, Sam, and Daniel