NO WAY ... WAY! Book series

This past year I've had the privilege of working with the team at Grosset & Dunlap (Penguin Random House) on a book series with the Smithsonian Institute. Each book has a unique theme and is packed to the max with fun facts, photos and illustrations. I absolutely love the range of imaginative illustrations each book provides, from blood thirsty birds to sauerkraut slurping sailors!

It's truly an honor to work with such an incredibly talented team of creatives at Grosset & Dunlap. Two creatives that have been key to the success of this series has been Giuseppe Castellano (Senior Art Director) and Sara Corbett (Associate Art Director). Giuseppe's insights on the industry and best practices for illustrators has been a key source of inspiration and education for me over the years (I HIGHLY recommend you visit website!) Working with him on this series has been a treasured experience. He is also a truly talented illustrator with an incredible creative journey that I admire greatly. Check out his inspired work here. I want to give an EXTRA big cheer and thank you to Sara! She has provided inspiring vision for the illustrations and given cherished encouragement along the journey. She is also a highly imaginative and uniquely talented designer and illustrator (Check out her eye dance inducing work here)! I respect both of them as creative leaders and look forward to many more creative connections with this book series and beyond!

Working on a book for the Smithsonian Institution is an opportunity I hold with the highest regard. My art may not be right there among ol' George Washington's teeth and Dorothy's ruby slippers, but it's quite inspiring to have it in the book shop!

Below are a few of my favorite spreads from the "Road Trip" book.

The first book in the No Way ... WAY! series "Road Trip" is filled with wacky facts covering every kind of travel on land, sea and air! I provided illustrations for several dozen facts, and the team implemented those into the pages among photos and vintage illustrations from the Smithsonian archives. It was quite delightful to see how they combine the photos on occasion with the illustrations to create a compelling image with a historical vibe!

Here are a few more favorites before they took their road trip into design (click image for larger preview):

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The second book in the No Way ... WAY! series "Are You My Dinner?" is filled with tasty facts that both delight and disgust! Again, I provided illustrations for several dozen facts, and the team implemented those into the pages among photos and vintage illustrations from the Smithsonian archives. After the success of the first book, I was feeling extra inspired to dive into the characters and culinary creativity of the food theme! Of course, how often do you get to illustrate a naked mole rat that prefers his restroom to be his favorite restaurant. AEEEWesome!
 

Below are a few of my favorite pages from the "Are You My Dinner" book:

Here are a few more favorites before they got served up to design (click image for larger preview):

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One of the greatest joy's of this project has been watching my 3 kids enjoy, laugh and learn with each page turn. They continue to share favorite facts, photos and illustrations as we drive (these are their favorite car books). I love hearing them say "WOW! Did you know ...", "EWWW, that's so gross." or my favorite "Ha Ha ... I like the illustration you did for this fact dad!" It's a win all around. Bonus Dad points when they ask "So is this book IN the Smithsonian?!" and I say "YEPS! ... the book store." They still think it's quite an amazing book project to be part of, and so do I! It encourages me deeply to know that kids around the world are learning, laughing and enjoying right along with my own kids! 

The team and I would be delighted to have you buy each of these books (Road Trip and Dinner) to enjoy yourself, or share with your family. It's guaranteed to bring plenty of "WOW!" "EWWW!" "HUH!?" and "HAHA!" responses with each and every page!

Book #3 is in the works, so be on the look out for it in 2016!

The Lovers, The Dreamers & Me: Touring the Jim Henson Co. studio

I was five when I saw "The Muppets Take Manhattan" in the theatre. I left the theatre wildly in love with the work of Jim Henson and the hilariously imaginative world of the Muppets. Since then The Muppets movies played over and over through my childhood till I nearly wore the VHS tapes out! The Fraggle Rock & Muppet Babies shows were top favorites as I grew up too. I was a bit to young to catch The Muppet Show on TV, but when I saw them in rerun, it solidified my lifelong love for all things Muppets. Later the mystical magic of Dark Crystal & Labyrinth pulled me deeper into my admiration for the worlds Jim Henson, Brian Henson, Frank Oz (and the teams) were creating. Jim Henson's imaginative work and unique creativity has been the biggest source of inspiration on my creative journey. Not only because of the depth of work he created, but most of all the joyful heart behind the artistry. His anthem of following your dreams and letting your imagination run wild connected with me as a young artist. I also wanted to create art that brought joy, hope and laughter like Jim Henson & Co. His legacy continues to inspire me as an illustrator today!

It has been a lifelong dream to visit the Jim Henson Co. studios, and thanks to my friend Justin Hilden (designer/illustrator for the Jim Henson Co.) that dream came true while visiting LA this weekend! HUGE heartfelt thank you to you Justin, from one JH/Muppet fanatic to another!

Walking onto the lot was truly a magical moment. The space has a peaceful calm and welcoming warmth that echoes the heart of Jim Henson. You can feel the legacy of creativity as you walk the hallowed grounds. Not only is there a rich history from the magic of The Muppets & Co., but the fact that Charlie Chaplin once lived, worked and created here too adds a level of creative history that is deeply inspiring!

I loved this old photo on the wall, I felt EXACTLY like Charlie here ... wide eyed at every turn! 

Seeing props featured around the studio from some of my favorite films was deeply moving! I was in awe knowing these were actual pieces used to bring the stories to life as only Jim Henson Co. creatives can! I was like a Skeksis "mmmmm-ing" through the entire tour.

Standing on the stage where Charlie Chaplin, Jim Henson and so many other legendary artists created was a true highlight of the tour! (The Creature Shop had just wrapped up production.)

A collection of WELL DESERVED awards!! I hope Jim Henson Co. continues to be awarded for all the endless creativity they continue to bring to the world!

The screening room felt like a cozy family movie room, which is fitting as the Jim Henson Co. family gather there to celebrate and enjoy films together. I wished I could have stayed and had a Muppets movie marathon! (sorry about the low lighting on the poster shots).

Honored to walk through the main conference room. A truly inspiring space to meet, plan & dream! The walls are lined with incredible concept art & props. The most magical piece is a giant mural by Coulter Watt that once hung in the Henson townhouse. 

The Henson Recording Studios holds another place of inspiration for me, as I think of all the classic songs that have been created behind this legendary door! I can only imagine what the artists that record here today must feel! It was Kermit's banjo playing that inspired me to want to be a banjo player too! "Rainbow Connection" will forever be my favorite song, and one that I feel an avalanche of inspiration from with every listen.

Spotted this "Creature Shop Challenge" poster on the wall. This is a Flowers family favorite show, that we REALLY HOPE will have many more seasons! If you haven't watched it, you should check it out today. Crazymazing creativity from the contestants and Brian Henson brings his unique insights and vision to the judging panel.

It was a HIGHLIGHT to see Brian Henson on the tour (I didn't get to meet him but saw him in his office. I do hope to meet him one day!) Lisa Henson walked by us, which was fun to see her in person. I highly admire the way all of Jim Henson's children continue to bring the legacy of their father to everything the Jim Henson Co. creates each with their own unique talents and vision. A true history of creativity!

Enjoyed a quick tour through the teams offices, where they continue to create amazing work in the spirit of Jim Henson (of course I was daydreaming of working among them!) The team has a warm family dynamic that I was very impressed with, and felt like it captured the heart of Jim Henson's vision for creative community!

Justin's office featured a few of my favorite recent pieces of his personal work, as well as a splendid collection of Muppets memorabilia. It certainly shows his lifelong love for all things Muppets too. I'll admit I wanted to stay and start an internship with him to learn his animation and illustration skills! Justin has also started a "Henson Art Gallery" at the office that features a range of artwork from fellow coworkers. An inspired idea, I believe Jim Henson would have loved!

If you haven't checked out Justin's INCREDIBLE work, I highly recommend it. Be sure to check out his amazing animation project "Oh, Possum!". It showcases Justin's unique illustration style & clever storytelling. Justin's creative journey has given him a rich depth of creative talent from animation, puppetry, illustration, design and writing - it all comes together perfectly in this project!. 

Truly blessed by this experience and one I will cherish all my life. My dream is now to work with the Jim Henson Co. in some capacity. I actually have a little book idea brewing in my brain, that I hope to share with them in the very near future. Till then, I am soaring high on the inspiration from the visit. I look forward to returning again one day as a lifelong fan, creative and dreamer.

Of course having my best friend, Luke Atencio along for this LA trip has made each experience all the more memorable! Luke is a fellow Jim Henson fan, artist and creative dreamer. He is a brilliantly talented composer, and I highly recommend you check out his work. It soundtracks many of my days in the creative cave. He has also produced all my albums, and we are in a little side band called Samename. The 2 Lukes most certainly plan to make a yearly trip out to LA for more inspired moments like this!

I cannot thank you enough Justin for this generous opportunity! You've made a lifelong Jim Henson/Muppets fan dream come true. It has been a joy getting to know you even more as a friend and fellow creative. I look forward to more connections with you in the years ahead. Many blessings to you as you continue to create and inspire with your work!

Forever grateful to you Jim Henson. You have inspired a lifelong dreamer in me! We miss you greatly but cherish the legacy of creativity and unique artistry you gave to this world.

IN SERVICE OF MONSTERS - Guillermo Del Toro Tribute Show @Gallery 1988

It's a big honor to be part of this show, not only because it pays tribute to the wildly imaginative work of Guillermo Del Toro, but this is also one of the most impressive collections of creatives I've had the privilege to be part of. The show is curated by the multi-talented Chogrin and Gary Decampo They have put together an absolutely stunning show at one of my favorite galleries - Gallery 1988! To be among so many creatives that I highly admire, and have inspired me over the years is what makes this show one of my all time favorites to be part of. The show opens tonight (at Gallery 1988 West) if you are in the LA area. Opening reception from 7-10 PM. Show runs till Oct. 11. I am excited to be heading out to LA later this month, so I will get a chance to stop in and see the show, though I wish I could be there for the opening night festivities.

Here is some show info sites:
Gallery 1988 Event Page
Facebook Event Page
Geek Tyrant Feature
Slash Film Feature
Guilllermo Del Toro show Tumblr

Here is the full reveal of my piece for the show. "Toro's Treehouse". nspired by my favorite GDT films: Hellboy, Hellboy 2, Mimic, Cronos, Pan's Labyrinth and Pacific Rim. Of course at the heart of it all is the imagination machine himself, Mr. Del Toro tucked away in the tree trunk feeding the beast with his creativity. 

Here is a gallery of close up's so you can see a bit more of the detail:

All the best to my fellow creatives and friends in the show! Hope it's an inspiring success for all.
Thanks for the support to all who get out to the show, or purchase pieces online!

SCBWI-NY2015

Incredibly excited to be off to New York for the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators conference this week. This will be my first time to this conference, but I'm sure not the last. Guaranteed to be a highly inspiring time for 3 main reasons:
1) Growing as an illustrator/author through the various workshops, illustration intensive and portfolio review.
2) Connecting with fellow creatives from the industry as well as a unique opportunity to meet 3 of my agents from The Bright Agency, as well as a few fellow Bright artists!
3) MAJOR dreaming & planning for the year ahead in hopes of getting a few of my own picture book concepts pitched, developed and published!

Even though I have heard amazing reviews from friends about this conference, I am sure it will go beyond all expectations. Already, I have been blessed by all the fellow creatives attending that have connected this past month. Delighted to be meeting them in person, as well as many new inspiring creatives. Actually wishing it was a week long conference after hearing how many friends are attending and all the rave reviews from last years event. I am so very grateful for this wonderfully rich way to kick the New Year off with an avalanche of inspiration!

Fun side note: Going to be roomies at the conference with long time illustration hero, friend and mentor Rob McClurkan. Rob inspired me to join the SCBWI last year and to attend this event. He has also been very influential and inspirational in my own journey toward illustrating & writing my own children's books. It will be a major highlight to finally connect in person!

To learn more about the amazing opportunities, resources and ways you can connect with fellow creatives in your area or attend an upcoming conference, Please visit the Society of Chidren's Book Writers and Illustrators site.

Bringing along a few postcards to swap with friends! And a few super secret book pitches and material for books in the works with Bright … hope to share more about those later in the year!

Kid Commissions 2014

As one of their Christmas gifts each of my kids got to direct a "kid commission" illustration from dad. They were the client from start to finish. Pitching the concept, directing the sketches, giving feedback through the process and giving final approval. Truly the best clients I've ever worked with! What I loved most was seeing how their personalities and unique imaginations really came through in the final illustration. This is a new tradition we will look forward to every year now!

My 11 year old son ordered Michelangelo (from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) riding a T-rex from Jurassic Park, fighting Rinzler (from Tron Legacy) … oh and added in a basketball spinning at the last minute (classic client move). Plus he wanted the other 3 turtles and 3 raptors hidden in the foliage. Quite a wild imagination that really captured not only his favorite movies/characters  … but also the fact that he is a bit indecisive and couldn't just pick one theme like his sisters. Which in the end made for one imaginative illustration that celebrates not only his favorites … but dad's too. We share a kindred fanaticism for film.

My 8 year old daughter wanted a landscape, she couldn't decide at first, but then thought of a sunny desert scene. Which fits her personality perfectly, she's an adventurous free spirit, with a deeply warm heart and smile that would challenge any desert sun! She wanted a cowgirl in the scene and her favorite activity, drawing the world around her. She also really wants to learn guitar, loves being outdoors (camping/hiking/exploring) and horses. I wanted to really capture that vibrancy of her life and the brightness she brings to our family with the colors and peaceful sunset. She's my little artist, and wants to one day be an illustrator like dad. To inspire her is one of the greatest joys of my life.

My 6 year old daughter had a tough time choosing between 2 ideas she had. But was most certainly clear it had to involve bunnies. Sweet, fun loving bunnies. Her bed is over flowing with every size, shape and kind of bunny lovey imaginable. Her favorite thing is her blanket bunny and she pretty much lives to spot bunnies on the pages of books to the front yard bushes. Which is really quite fitting as she is as sweet and cuddly as any bunny you'll find. At first she wanted a scene of her jumping with a bunch of bunnies on a trampoline (her favorite activity), but she also would live in a swimming pool if possible. So she wanted some water. In the end she decided on a scene of her playing in a river with her bunny friends hugging her. I think it captured the most magical place she could imagine. She is always up for silly fun and a hearty hug. She did add "maybe you could still do the second illustration for my room this summer". It'll cost ya kid … one big classic Nomer's hug!