I just finished this design with toucans and palm trees. Creating a collection is just as exciting as designing the original concept. A larger toucan is on my mind, and a design with more foliage.

This is a boat at the State Straits Marina in Mackinaw City, Michigan. Of course, it was the shade of turquoise water that inspired me to grab my iPhone. Even though I created the artwork for the tropical toucan before I was in Mackinaw City, I will use this photo for proof, that you don’t have to go to the Caribbean to see clear turquoise water.

More on this theme coming soon to ClarkyWorks.

If you have ideas on what products you would envision this design being used for, please leave me a comment. My designs are available on many products from home decor, wallpaper, gift wrapping to clothing and accessories. You too can design!

Blessings,

~Tresa

One of the current graphic design trends is inspired by the Bauhaus Design Movement. It was also a school that started in Weimar, Germany in 1919 by a group of architects.

While thinking about what to sketch for this Bauhaus inspired design, I just had to look across the room. Next to the lamp is one of my pieces I built for my Bachelor of Art Degree Show.

Sketching is usually a part of my process, and it was nice to review my old sketchbook from semesters of hand building ceramic forms.

I’m sure that Bauhaus will show up again in my work, because of the influence of modern art and architecture that is available to people who live in the city.

We recently went to the Detroit Institute of Arts. I love the mix of architectural styles in the mid town area. The city is definitely making a comeback!

I often pick up a copy of “Architectural Digest”, a periodical I enjoyed when living in an ultra modern home with my parents. On the back cover of March 2018, this “Hermés” ad pictured below has a Bauhaus vibe.

More about my surface pattern designs and influences coming soon.

God Bless America,

~Tresa

When ideas come to fruition, it is an accomplishment to be happy about and to reflect upon. Then, I remember the saying, you are only as good as your last design. Oh, maybe that statement is a little harsh, but I hear this a lot.

Having a plan is a good idea. I like to do research as my ideas come together in a sketch. Or, I could just jump into the project on the computer, but I find that to be less inspiring, (except when I’m dealing with typography). Having more info will help me understand my subject matter, and maybe take a different angle on my initial plan. Sometimes, getting away from the creative process, and just living your daily life is a perfect way to expand the mind, while concentrating on other things.

Some liquid research does the trick. Attention boaters, this awesome place is called The Landing Restaurant on Lake Charlevoix in northwest Michigan.

And that is how it’s done.

This post was inspired by the daily post.

~Tresa

SaveSave

Recently we attended a funeral of a friend’s nephew. He was 21, a member of the army reserves, and buried with military honors. I’ll never forget the image of his father looking down at the folded flag on his lap with three bullet casings on top. I’m sure he was very proud that his son had lived to serve his country, and found his higher purpose in life.

I have never been a part of the military, and would never aspire to that duty, probably because I’m an artist who likes to break the rules. However, we all have rules to live by. We recognize the norms that society places on us as we become good citizens of the earth by honoring God, family and country.

Funerals always have that effect on me, to further analyze my life, and what I’ll leave behind. Spending quality time with my husband and family is the most important. But there is still a voice that is nagging me to do more. What will I do to make a difference in someone’s life? More than that, help others see something that I feel is a good thing. How can I feel productive and viable in using my artistic strengths to help others?

My creative journey as a God fearing person — with husband by my side — is a blessed life, next to him.

Tresa

On our way to the lake house.

This post is inspired by the Daily Post and celebrating life.

I’m not sure when it started, the need to capture the sunset, and all the memories it brings.

Looking forward to Spring.

~Tresa

More sunsets at the Daily Post.