Rose B, Author at MobiSpirit MobiSpirit Sun, 10 Apr 2022 12:59:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 The Driving Force Behind Leo Espinosa’s Illustrations is Curiosity https://mobispirit.com/the-driving-force-behind-leo-espinosas-illustrations-is-curiosity/ Mon, 11 Apr 2022 06:39:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25382 Leo Espinosa’s illustrations present a playful universe, full of color and movement. In one, a baker is seen surrounded by bread baskets, while another shows a funny-looking woman holding a funny-looking dog. It’s these kinds of every day, humoristic snippets that make Espinosa a sought-after editorial illustrator, with publications of his seen on The New […]

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]]> Leo Espinosa’s illustrations present a playful universe, full of color and movement. In one, a baker is seen surrounded by bread baskets, while another shows a funny-looking woman holding a funny-looking dog.

It’s these kinds of every day, humoristic snippets that make Espinosa a sought-after editorial illustrator, with publications of his seen on The New Yorker, The New York Times, and The Atlantic standing in line to get his work.

But oddly enough, Espinosa didn’t start out as an illustrator but rather stumbled into his vocation: “Curiosity has led my career and it has proven to be a good business strategy,” he admitted once in an interview with AI-AP.  Based in Bogotá, Colombia, Espinosa had first worked full-time as a designer and art director.

“Even though my illustration career didn’t kick off until the mid-90s, I like to think that I started working while I was still attending design school,” he reflects.

“I got a small job doing storyboards for an ad agency, which lead to a designer position, and later on I became an art director; by the time I left Colombia at the age of 22, I had worked in three large multinational agencies.”

Aside from his editorial work, Espinosa also delved into character and product design, as well as animation, logo design, comics, gallery work, and children’s books. He has collaborated with brands like Nickelodeon, Swatch, and Facebook, and his work has also been featured in one animated series and gallery shows worldwide.

Scroll down to see some recent highlights and show him some love on Instagram.

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]]> Kelly Abeln Channels Her Anxiety Into Her Comics https://mobispirit.com/kelly-abeln-channels-her-anxiety-into-her-comics/ Fri, 25 Mar 2022 10:32:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25703 Minneapolis-based illustrator Kelly Abeln makes us giggle shamelessly with her approachable, outspoken comic strips shared through her Instagram page. In a year of uncertainty, Abeln’s work is the kind that makes you feel less alone with the ups and downs of everyday life. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kelly Abeln (@hagsville) […]

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]]> Minneapolis-based illustrator Kelly Abeln makes us giggle shamelessly with her approachable, outspoken comic strips shared through her Instagram page. In a year of uncertainty, Abeln’s work is the kind that makes you feel less alone with the ups and downs of everyday life.

A recent favorite of ours is a series of illustrations that captures perfectly the silver lining that might be had in times of pandemic.

“During a time of crisis, my mind doesn’t need to invent any,” reads one caption which sees an illustrated version of Abeln meditating in the midst of a raging fire.

“A year of lowered expectations, practice accepting uncertainty, and not leaving my comfort zone has reduced my anxiety,” notes the candid illustrator. “But what happens when this ends?!”

Such forthcoming reflections are what make Abeln’s work a delightful treat that has amassed some 15,000 plus followers on Instagram.

“I love that what I want to do aligns with how I support myself,” Abeln shared with MCAD Alumni. “I also love seeing people’s reactions to my work and that I get to see things I create out in the world.”

A freelance illustrator with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and Illustration from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Abeln agrees with the old saying that variety is the spice of life. “The variety of working from home, working on a contract assignment, and personal projects keeps things interesting,” she notes.

And as for inspiration—she might as well turn to her work desk. “Inspiration comes from working,” says Abeln. “Just keep making stuff and ideas will come.”

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]]> Fans of Alaskan Malamutes? Don’t Miss Out on Tydus https://mobispirit.com/fans-of-alaskan-malamutes-dont-miss-out-on-tydus/ Mon, 15 Mar 2021 06:08:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25681 Like other arctic dog breeds, the Alaskan Malamute was originally bred for its strength and endurance to haul heavy freight as a sled dog and hound. To this day, you can still Alaskan Malamutes hauling freight and helping out their human companions, carrying light objects through snow-covered landscapes. Most Alaskan Malamutes, however, are brought up […]

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]]> Like other arctic dog breeds, the Alaskan Malamute was originally bred for its strength and endurance to haul heavy freight as a sled dog and hound. To this day, you can still Alaskan Malamutes hauling freight and helping out their human companions, carrying light objects through snow-covered landscapes. Most Alaskan Malamutes, however, are brought up as pets.

Such is the life of Tydus. Based in South Africa with his human buddies and pet companions (a parrot and a kitten), Tydus most likely will never see a sled in his life. But with almost 150k followers on Instagram, this Instagram celebrity doesn’t complain.

“We came across the breed and were intrigued by their personality and the fact that they are not as hyper as Huskies,” his owners shared in an interview with helloBARK!. “Not to mention their amazing look and stature! We undertook some research and had our mind set on getting a Malamute.”

His stature is indeed impressive (take in mind that Alaskan Malamutes can reach 100 pounds). But what makes his Instagram page stand out is the fact he’s being brought up alongside his buddies, Trez—an 11-year-old Congo African grey—and Bane, a one-year-old rescue kitty.

“Trez is much more vocal,” admit the South African pet owners. “He is our African grey parrot and has a motor mouth! He warms up his voice box every morning at 6am.”

Follow their unique lifestyle on Instagram!

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]]> A Celebration of Everyday Life: Marc Martin’s Captivating Illustrations https://mobispirit.com/a-celebration-of-everyday-life-marc-martins-captivating-illustrations/ Mon, 28 Dec 2020 12:27:27 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25300 Illustrator and author Marc Martin captures the simple joys of everyday life, through his colorful and layered illustrations. A combination of hand-drawing, water coloring, and digital rendering, his work is a celebration of human spirit and nature, often featuring a hybrid between city life and natural settings. “Most of my work starts with a quick […]

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]]> Illustrator and author Marc Martin captures the simple joys of everyday life, through his colorful and layered illustrations. A combination of hand-drawing, water coloring, and digital rendering, his work is a celebration of human spirit and nature, often featuring a hybrid between city life and natural settings.

“Most of my work starts with a quick sketch in Procreate,” Martin shared with The Jacky Winter Group, explaining the creative process that goes behind the scenes. “Then I draw everything in watercolor, take those drawings into Photoshop, and compose the final image using lots of layers. I draw as much as possible by hand, then scan it all in and compose the final image in Photoshop.”

Based in Melbourne, Australia, his illustrations have been featured in Wired, The Financial Review, and GQ, but he is mostly recognized for his illustration books. With five books under his belt, he has also won the Best Illustrated Picture Book category in The New York Times.

“It’s really important to dedicate time to personal work because that personal work can often turn into client work,” says Martin. “When I’m not doing client work, you can probably find me drawing in my sketchbook. I love trying to capture a scene or person with a few simple brushstrokes.”

His work is largely featured on his Instagram page, where he has amassed some 195,000 followers. Recent work includes an illustrated wall hanging of a Christmas tree—perfect for the holiday season. Scroll down to see more of his delightful creations.

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]]> Katherine Bradford’s Paintings are a Breath of Fresh Air https://mobispirit.com/katherine-bradfords-paintings-are-a-breath-of-fresh-air/ Mon, 30 Nov 2020 14:02:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25272 If you’re at all familiar with contemporary painters, chances are you’ve run into Katherine Bradford’s work. Recognized mainly for her paintings of swimmers and superheroes, her naive paintings have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums like the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (solo), MoMA PS1, and Brooklyn Museum. Painted using striking color combinations, Bradford’s paintings make for […]

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]]> If you’re at all familiar with contemporary painters, chances are you’ve run into Katherine Bradford’s work. Recognized mainly for her paintings of swimmers and superheroes, her naive paintings have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums like the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (solo), MoMA PS1, and Brooklyn Museum.

Painted using striking color combinations, Bradford’s paintings make for a dramatic effect. But her art is all the more outstanding when you learn of her unconventional background. A self-taught artist, it was only by the age of 37 that Bradford took a leap of faith, facing her intrinsic artistic passion— head-on.

“I was really in the closet about how deeply I felt about making paintings,” she admitted in an interview with Hyperallergic. “The barn was my studio, I was doing mark-making paintings. I had not gone to art school or taken any foundation classes. So my idea of painting was to dip the brush in paint and put it on the canvas.”

At 37 and despite the disapproval from her family, Bradford moved to New York City. A single mother, she would go on to pursue art in closer contact with contemporary painting discourse, eventually enrolling in graduate studies.

Now an esteemed artist, her work, and her life story, will serve to inspire you.

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]]> Illustrator and Poet, Matthew Hodson, Will Spark Joy in Your Feed https://mobispirit.com/illustrator-and-poet-matthew-hodson-will-spark-joy-in-your-feed/ Mon, 26 Oct 2020 08:07:34 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25210 With the internet an over-crowded and ever expanding space, it’s easy to get distracted by the endless noise. But underneath the noise, truth and beauty await for those of us willing to do some digging. Known online as Matthew The Horse, illustrator and poet Matthew Hodson, is one of those rare treats Instagram has to […]

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]]> With the internet an over-crowded and ever expanding space, it’s easy to get distracted by the endless noise. But underneath the noise, truth and beauty await for those of us willing to do some digging.

Known online as Matthew The Horse, illustrator and poet Matthew Hodson, is one of those rare treats Instagram has to offer. His words and illustrations, simple and without flourish—speak to the true nature of things.

“The only work I ever really like of my own are the tiny moments of truth and play that occur outside of knowing or trying,” he shared once in an interview with The Association of Illustrators. “The real craft is how to extract and realise such moments into fully formed books.”

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Gifting options for @andopen.co

A post shared by Matthew The Horse (@matthewthehorse) on

“Though limiting in many ways, I’m still in love with the drawn line and so I think I’m going to keep on drawing lines, but how does one draw a line?” he added, rhetorically. Hodson should know. With clients as big as The New York Times, The Guardian, The Sunday Times, as well as the National History Museum, Hodson clearly knows how to draw a line or two.

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An expressive cat in this week's @radiotimes

A post shared by Matthew The Horse (@matthewthehorse) on

“I like lines that speak with a hopeful wonk,” he ntoes, “a robustness and a mischief. I like gestural lines, and ugly lines, with little hats on. I like the way that great lines are honest and familiar and trustworthy and caring. I like lines that are assured and have purpose, even whilst getting lost.”

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This curious mouse

A post shared by Matthew The Horse (@matthewthehorse) on

Follow him on Instagram for a grain of beauty, humor, and—of course—truth in the sea of content.

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]]> The Warm and Textured Illustrations of Billie Francis https://mobispirit.com/the-warm-and-textured-illustrations-of-billie-francis/ Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:06:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25148 Billie Francis’ illustrations have a sense of warmth to them. The way her subjects are treated, as well as the way they relate to each other, has an undeniable playful quality to it, that’s also reflected in Francis’ bright color choices. The end result speaks of a more positive world, and one you’d want to […]

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]]> Billie Francis’ illustrations have a sense of warmth to them. The way her subjects are treated, as well as the way they relate to each other, has an undeniable playful quality to it, that’s also reflected in Francis’ bright color choices. The end result speaks of a more positive world, and one you’d want to introduce to your feed.

Based in Birmingham, UK, Francis’ work can appeal to both children and adults. And though most of her illustrations are digital, she makes sure to add layers of texture to it, that make for a more authentic feel.

“I always remember being engrossed in the beautiful illustrations not realizing my love for texture,” Francis remarked once in an interview with Ohh Deer. Calling to mind the Hungry Caterpillar —a book that holds a special place in her heart for its use of texture.

But it took her some time to incorporate this textured feel into her work. According to Francis, she took a more experimental approach while studying illustration in Leeds at Leeds College of Art. “I then fell in love with traditional print methods again, bringing my work back to lovely hand crafted pieces that allowed me to spend loads of time on,” she says. “I played with how I could get the effect of the layers and textures of screenprint into my digital work. This is where my work became my work!”

Her texture artwork is filled with images and characters, creating a seamless narrative, without the use of words. Take a look:

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Ive collaborated with @aila_magazine to create this charity print for all of you lovelies 💚 in light of BLM we will be selling this print to raise money for @sistahspace_ For more info head on over to @aila_magazine on how to purchase and give them some love and support too whilst your there 💙👀 (link in bio) @sistahspace_ is a amazing charity working with women and girls who are from the many different sections of the African/ Caribbean community. They work with girls and women who are survivors of domestic or sexual abuse or have lost a loved one due to this. Your money will be helping these women get the advice, emotional and practical support they need x – – – – – #chairtyprint #sistahspace #illustration #blm #freelanceillustrator #womenempowerment #print #procreate #colourful #supportwomen

A post shared by Billie Francis (@billiefrancis_) on

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]]> The Incredible Paper Props of Aline Houdé-Diebolt https://mobispirit.com/the-incredible-paper-props-of-aline-houde-diebolt/ Mon, 24 Aug 2020 06:20:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25083 There’s nothing like paper art to remind you of the tangible quality of everyday life. Aline Houdé-Diebolt knows best. A freelance paper designer and set designer, Houdé-Diebolt makes elaborate props and complete paper sets of paper. Inspired by the world around her, Houdé-Diebolt translates the banalities of the day to day into works of magic. […]

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]]> There’s nothing like paper art to remind you of the tangible quality of everyday life. Aline Houdé-Diebolt knows best. A freelance paper designer and set designer, Houdé-Diebolt makes elaborate props and complete paper sets of paper.

Inspired by the world around her, Houdé-Diebolt translates the banalities of the day to day into works of magic. Under her skillful hands, the colorful pieces of paper transform into objects that include headphones, mugs, toy trains and even a vintage rotary telephone.

Based in Paris, Houdé-Diebolt actually started out as a textile designer, having graduated from the École Supérieure d’Arts Appliqués Duperré in 2007. “When I decided to become a freelancer, I started by creating textile patterns for a few brands,” she recalled in an interview with Strictly Paper. “But that didn’t fit my need. I needed to craft things. To manipulate and touch materials and colors. That’s how I came to paper.”

“Colors, patterns, and materials are a real passion to me,” adds the French designer. “It always has been this way. I also learned the Traditional Chinese paper technique in a design institute in China.”

Her Instagram page is an endless source of inspiration and color. Scroll down to see some of her selected work:

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]]> Translating the Subconscious Into a Work of Art: Meet Beth Hoeckel https://mobispirit.com/translating-the-subconscious-into-a-work-of-art-meet-beth-hoeckel/ Mon, 10 Aug 2020 06:15:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25060 With collage art, the process is just as important as the finished piece. Beth Hoeckel knows best. Based in Austin TX, Hoeckel loves rummaging through vintage publications ranging from the 1920s to the 1970s, in the search for just the right material for each piece. “I love to mindlessly flip through pages and then tear […]

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]]> With collage art, the process is just as important as the finished piece. Beth Hoeckel knows best. Based in Austin TX, Hoeckel loves rummaging through vintage publications ranging from the 1920s to the 1970s, in the search for just the right material for each piece.

“I love to mindlessly flip through pages and then tear out any page that I like or that speaks to me in some way,” she relayed in an interview with society6’s blog. According to Hoeckel, while her earlier work relied mainly on imagery from National Geographic, she now tries to find rarer publications, looking out for an image that speaks to her. This process is mostly spontaneous.

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#socialdistancing < #socialmediadistancing

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“The next step is cutting out specific bits from those pages and then I scan them,” says Hoeckel., adding that while in the past she used to do everything analog, she now works on digitizing her materials. “But basically I am extremely intuitive and so the whole process is informed by my subconscious,” she notes. “That includes knowing when a work is complete. It’s 100% based on feeling.”

Her intuitive approach to art making seems to be working for her. In the the past 5 years or so, her work has been exhibited worldwide and published in top tier magazines. Her clients include brands like Rookie, Domino, and The New York Times. But you can also follow her work on Instagram:

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Yum yum 🥪👅 illustration for @nytparenting

A post shared by Beth Hoeckel (@bethhoeckel) on

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]]> Chasing Waterfalls: Andrea Shearing’s Abstract Art https://mobispirit.com/chasing-waterfalls-andrea-shearings-abstract-art/ Fri, 31 Jul 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=22230 Andrea Shearing’s artwork has a distinct flow to it. Inspired by nature, and more specifically by water, there’s a fluidity to her work, in terms of both her chosen mediums and themes. A hybrid between painting and sculpting, her abstract work explored the juxtapositions found in nature. “I am interested in exploring the fluidity of […]

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]]> Andrea Shearing’s artwork has a distinct flow to it. Inspired by nature, and more specifically by water, there’s a fluidity to her work, in terms of both her chosen mediums and themes. A hybrid between painting and sculpting, her abstract work explored the juxtapositions found in nature.

“I am interested in exploring the fluidity of water against the firm resistance of hard rock,” explained Shearing on her website. She notes that she is particularly fascinated by the movement of the ocean waves expressing the rhythm of life and the force and strength of nature.

But though her work is in direct dialogue with her natural surroundings, it isn’t meant to be representational or realistic. “My mission is to explore the emotional symbolism of something like a broken egg in a nest,” says Shearing. “This for me represents the tension between birth and death, the purity of simple form in contrast with nature’s complex structures and designs. The fragility of the shell which can beak and shatter versus its strength to encompass life and growth.”

With a background both in sculpture and painting, her creative process includes mixing minute amounts of paint to get the exact tone and intensity of colors she wants. “I work very carefully, thoughtfully considering composition and juxtaposition of tones and colors,” she notes. “I spend time choosing my palette very carefully as this is the platform from which I build the timbre and mood of the piece.”

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]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> Rose B, Author at MobiSpirit MobiSpirit Sun, 10 Apr 2022 12:59:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 The Driving Force Behind Leo Espinosa’s Illustrations is Curiosity https://mobispirit.com/the-driving-force-behind-leo-espinosas-illustrations-is-curiosity/ Mon, 11 Apr 2022 06:39:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25382 Leo Espinosa’s illustrations present a playful universe, full of color and movement. In one, a baker is seen surrounded by bread baskets, while another shows a funny-looking woman holding a funny-looking dog. It’s these kinds of every day, humoristic snippets that make Espinosa a sought-after editorial illustrator, with publications of his seen on The New […]

The post The Driving Force Behind Leo Espinosa’s Illustrations is Curiosity appeared first on MobiSpirit.

]]> Leo Espinosa’s illustrations present a playful universe, full of color and movement. In one, a baker is seen surrounded by bread baskets, while another shows a funny-looking woman holding a funny-looking dog.

It’s these kinds of every day, humoristic snippets that make Espinosa a sought-after editorial illustrator, with publications of his seen on The New Yorker, The New York Times, and The Atlantic standing in line to get his work.

But oddly enough, Espinosa didn’t start out as an illustrator but rather stumbled into his vocation: “Curiosity has led my career and it has proven to be a good business strategy,” he admitted once in an interview with AI-AP.  Based in Bogotá, Colombia, Espinosa had first worked full-time as a designer and art director.

“Even though my illustration career didn’t kick off until the mid-90s, I like to think that I started working while I was still attending design school,” he reflects.

“I got a small job doing storyboards for an ad agency, which lead to a designer position, and later on I became an art director; by the time I left Colombia at the age of 22, I had worked in three large multinational agencies.”

Aside from his editorial work, Espinosa also delved into character and product design, as well as animation, logo design, comics, gallery work, and children’s books. He has collaborated with brands like Nickelodeon, Swatch, and Facebook, and his work has also been featured in one animated series and gallery shows worldwide.

Scroll down to see some recent highlights and show him some love on Instagram.

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]]> Kelly Abeln Channels Her Anxiety Into Her Comics https://mobispirit.com/kelly-abeln-channels-her-anxiety-into-her-comics/ Fri, 25 Mar 2022 10:32:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25703 Minneapolis-based illustrator Kelly Abeln makes us giggle shamelessly with her approachable, outspoken comic strips shared through her Instagram page. In a year of uncertainty, Abeln’s work is the kind that makes you feel less alone with the ups and downs of everyday life. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kelly Abeln (@hagsville) […]

The post Kelly Abeln Channels Her Anxiety Into Her Comics appeared first on MobiSpirit.

]]> Minneapolis-based illustrator Kelly Abeln makes us giggle shamelessly with her approachable, outspoken comic strips shared through her Instagram page. In a year of uncertainty, Abeln’s work is the kind that makes you feel less alone with the ups and downs of everyday life.

A recent favorite of ours is a series of illustrations that captures perfectly the silver lining that might be had in times of pandemic.

“During a time of crisis, my mind doesn’t need to invent any,” reads one caption which sees an illustrated version of Abeln meditating in the midst of a raging fire.

“A year of lowered expectations, practice accepting uncertainty, and not leaving my comfort zone has reduced my anxiety,” notes the candid illustrator. “But what happens when this ends?!”

Such forthcoming reflections are what make Abeln’s work a delightful treat that has amassed some 15,000 plus followers on Instagram.

“I love that what I want to do aligns with how I support myself,” Abeln shared with MCAD Alumni. “I also love seeing people’s reactions to my work and that I get to see things I create out in the world.”

A freelance illustrator with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and Illustration from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Abeln agrees with the old saying that variety is the spice of life. “The variety of working from home, working on a contract assignment, and personal projects keeps things interesting,” she notes.

And as for inspiration—she might as well turn to her work desk. “Inspiration comes from working,” says Abeln. “Just keep making stuff and ideas will come.”

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]]> Fans of Alaskan Malamutes? Don’t Miss Out on Tydus https://mobispirit.com/fans-of-alaskan-malamutes-dont-miss-out-on-tydus/ Mon, 15 Mar 2021 06:08:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25681 Like other arctic dog breeds, the Alaskan Malamute was originally bred for its strength and endurance to haul heavy freight as a sled dog and hound. To this day, you can still Alaskan Malamutes hauling freight and helping out their human companions, carrying light objects through snow-covered landscapes. Most Alaskan Malamutes, however, are brought up […]

The post Fans of Alaskan Malamutes? Don’t Miss Out on Tydus appeared first on MobiSpirit.

]]> Like other arctic dog breeds, the Alaskan Malamute was originally bred for its strength and endurance to haul heavy freight as a sled dog and hound. To this day, you can still Alaskan Malamutes hauling freight and helping out their human companions, carrying light objects through snow-covered landscapes. Most Alaskan Malamutes, however, are brought up as pets.

Such is the life of Tydus. Based in South Africa with his human buddies and pet companions (a parrot and a kitten), Tydus most likely will never see a sled in his life. But with almost 150k followers on Instagram, this Instagram celebrity doesn’t complain.

“We came across the breed and were intrigued by their personality and the fact that they are not as hyper as Huskies,” his owners shared in an interview with helloBARK!. “Not to mention their amazing look and stature! We undertook some research and had our mind set on getting a Malamute.”

His stature is indeed impressive (take in mind that Alaskan Malamutes can reach 100 pounds). But what makes his Instagram page stand out is the fact he’s being brought up alongside his buddies, Trez—an 11-year-old Congo African grey—and Bane, a one-year-old rescue kitty.

“Trez is much more vocal,” admit the South African pet owners. “He is our African grey parrot and has a motor mouth! He warms up his voice box every morning at 6am.”

Follow their unique lifestyle on Instagram!

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]]> A Celebration of Everyday Life: Marc Martin’s Captivating Illustrations https://mobispirit.com/a-celebration-of-everyday-life-marc-martins-captivating-illustrations/ Mon, 28 Dec 2020 12:27:27 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25300 Illustrator and author Marc Martin captures the simple joys of everyday life, through his colorful and layered illustrations. A combination of hand-drawing, water coloring, and digital rendering, his work is a celebration of human spirit and nature, often featuring a hybrid between city life and natural settings. “Most of my work starts with a quick […]

The post A Celebration of Everyday Life: Marc Martin’s Captivating Illustrations appeared first on MobiSpirit.

]]> Illustrator and author Marc Martin captures the simple joys of everyday life, through his colorful and layered illustrations. A combination of hand-drawing, water coloring, and digital rendering, his work is a celebration of human spirit and nature, often featuring a hybrid between city life and natural settings.

“Most of my work starts with a quick sketch in Procreate,” Martin shared with The Jacky Winter Group, explaining the creative process that goes behind the scenes. “Then I draw everything in watercolor, take those drawings into Photoshop, and compose the final image using lots of layers. I draw as much as possible by hand, then scan it all in and compose the final image in Photoshop.”

Based in Melbourne, Australia, his illustrations have been featured in Wired, The Financial Review, and GQ, but he is mostly recognized for his illustration books. With five books under his belt, he has also won the Best Illustrated Picture Book category in The New York Times.

“It’s really important to dedicate time to personal work because that personal work can often turn into client work,” says Martin. “When I’m not doing client work, you can probably find me drawing in my sketchbook. I love trying to capture a scene or person with a few simple brushstrokes.”

His work is largely featured on his Instagram page, where he has amassed some 195,000 followers. Recent work includes an illustrated wall hanging of a Christmas tree—perfect for the holiday season. Scroll down to see more of his delightful creations.

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]]> Katherine Bradford’s Paintings are a Breath of Fresh Air https://mobispirit.com/katherine-bradfords-paintings-are-a-breath-of-fresh-air/ Mon, 30 Nov 2020 14:02:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25272 If you’re at all familiar with contemporary painters, chances are you’ve run into Katherine Bradford’s work. Recognized mainly for her paintings of swimmers and superheroes, her naive paintings have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums like the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (solo), MoMA PS1, and Brooklyn Museum. Painted using striking color combinations, Bradford’s paintings make for […]

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]]> If you’re at all familiar with contemporary painters, chances are you’ve run into Katherine Bradford’s work. Recognized mainly for her paintings of swimmers and superheroes, her naive paintings have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums like the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (solo), MoMA PS1, and Brooklyn Museum.

Painted using striking color combinations, Bradford’s paintings make for a dramatic effect. But her art is all the more outstanding when you learn of her unconventional background. A self-taught artist, it was only by the age of 37 that Bradford took a leap of faith, facing her intrinsic artistic passion— head-on.

“I was really in the closet about how deeply I felt about making paintings,” she admitted in an interview with Hyperallergic. “The barn was my studio, I was doing mark-making paintings. I had not gone to art school or taken any foundation classes. So my idea of painting was to dip the brush in paint and put it on the canvas.”

At 37 and despite the disapproval from her family, Bradford moved to New York City. A single mother, she would go on to pursue art in closer contact with contemporary painting discourse, eventually enrolling in graduate studies.

Now an esteemed artist, her work, and her life story, will serve to inspire you.

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]]> Illustrator and Poet, Matthew Hodson, Will Spark Joy in Your Feed https://mobispirit.com/illustrator-and-poet-matthew-hodson-will-spark-joy-in-your-feed/ Mon, 26 Oct 2020 08:07:34 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25210 With the internet an over-crowded and ever expanding space, it’s easy to get distracted by the endless noise. But underneath the noise, truth and beauty await for those of us willing to do some digging. Known online as Matthew The Horse, illustrator and poet Matthew Hodson, is one of those rare treats Instagram has to […]

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]]> With the internet an over-crowded and ever expanding space, it’s easy to get distracted by the endless noise. But underneath the noise, truth and beauty await for those of us willing to do some digging.

Known online as Matthew The Horse, illustrator and poet Matthew Hodson, is one of those rare treats Instagram has to offer. His words and illustrations, simple and without flourish—speak to the true nature of things.

“The only work I ever really like of my own are the tiny moments of truth and play that occur outside of knowing or trying,” he shared once in an interview with The Association of Illustrators. “The real craft is how to extract and realise such moments into fully formed books.”

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Gifting options for @andopen.co

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“Though limiting in many ways, I’m still in love with the drawn line and so I think I’m going to keep on drawing lines, but how does one draw a line?” he added, rhetorically. Hodson should know. With clients as big as The New York Times, The Guardian, The Sunday Times, as well as the National History Museum, Hodson clearly knows how to draw a line or two.

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An expressive cat in this week's @radiotimes

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“I like lines that speak with a hopeful wonk,” he ntoes, “a robustness and a mischief. I like gestural lines, and ugly lines, with little hats on. I like the way that great lines are honest and familiar and trustworthy and caring. I like lines that are assured and have purpose, even whilst getting lost.”

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This curious mouse

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Follow him on Instagram for a grain of beauty, humor, and—of course—truth in the sea of content.

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]]> The Warm and Textured Illustrations of Billie Francis https://mobispirit.com/the-warm-and-textured-illustrations-of-billie-francis/ Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:06:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25148 Billie Francis’ illustrations have a sense of warmth to them. The way her subjects are treated, as well as the way they relate to each other, has an undeniable playful quality to it, that’s also reflected in Francis’ bright color choices. The end result speaks of a more positive world, and one you’d want to […]

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]]> Billie Francis’ illustrations have a sense of warmth to them. The way her subjects are treated, as well as the way they relate to each other, has an undeniable playful quality to it, that’s also reflected in Francis’ bright color choices. The end result speaks of a more positive world, and one you’d want to introduce to your feed.

Based in Birmingham, UK, Francis’ work can appeal to both children and adults. And though most of her illustrations are digital, she makes sure to add layers of texture to it, that make for a more authentic feel.

“I always remember being engrossed in the beautiful illustrations not realizing my love for texture,” Francis remarked once in an interview with Ohh Deer. Calling to mind the Hungry Caterpillar —a book that holds a special place in her heart for its use of texture.

But it took her some time to incorporate this textured feel into her work. According to Francis, she took a more experimental approach while studying illustration in Leeds at Leeds College of Art. “I then fell in love with traditional print methods again, bringing my work back to lovely hand crafted pieces that allowed me to spend loads of time on,” she says. “I played with how I could get the effect of the layers and textures of screenprint into my digital work. This is where my work became my work!”

Her texture artwork is filled with images and characters, creating a seamless narrative, without the use of words. Take a look:

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Ive collaborated with @aila_magazine to create this charity print for all of you lovelies 💚 in light of BLM we will be selling this print to raise money for @sistahspace_ For more info head on over to @aila_magazine on how to purchase and give them some love and support too whilst your there 💙👀 (link in bio) @sistahspace_ is a amazing charity working with women and girls who are from the many different sections of the African/ Caribbean community. They work with girls and women who are survivors of domestic or sexual abuse or have lost a loved one due to this. Your money will be helping these women get the advice, emotional and practical support they need x – – – – – #chairtyprint #sistahspace #illustration #blm #freelanceillustrator #womenempowerment #print #procreate #colourful #supportwomen

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]]> The Incredible Paper Props of Aline Houdé-Diebolt https://mobispirit.com/the-incredible-paper-props-of-aline-houde-diebolt/ Mon, 24 Aug 2020 06:20:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25083 There’s nothing like paper art to remind you of the tangible quality of everyday life. Aline Houdé-Diebolt knows best. A freelance paper designer and set designer, Houdé-Diebolt makes elaborate props and complete paper sets of paper. Inspired by the world around her, Houdé-Diebolt translates the banalities of the day to day into works of magic. […]

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]]> There’s nothing like paper art to remind you of the tangible quality of everyday life. Aline Houdé-Diebolt knows best. A freelance paper designer and set designer, Houdé-Diebolt makes elaborate props and complete paper sets of paper.

Inspired by the world around her, Houdé-Diebolt translates the banalities of the day to day into works of magic. Under her skillful hands, the colorful pieces of paper transform into objects that include headphones, mugs, toy trains and even a vintage rotary telephone.

Based in Paris, Houdé-Diebolt actually started out as a textile designer, having graduated from the École Supérieure d’Arts Appliqués Duperré in 2007. “When I decided to become a freelancer, I started by creating textile patterns for a few brands,” she recalled in an interview with Strictly Paper. “But that didn’t fit my need. I needed to craft things. To manipulate and touch materials and colors. That’s how I came to paper.”

“Colors, patterns, and materials are a real passion to me,” adds the French designer. “It always has been this way. I also learned the Traditional Chinese paper technique in a design institute in China.”

Her Instagram page is an endless source of inspiration and color. Scroll down to see some of her selected work:

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]]> Translating the Subconscious Into a Work of Art: Meet Beth Hoeckel https://mobispirit.com/translating-the-subconscious-into-a-work-of-art-meet-beth-hoeckel/ Mon, 10 Aug 2020 06:15:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=25060 With collage art, the process is just as important as the finished piece. Beth Hoeckel knows best. Based in Austin TX, Hoeckel loves rummaging through vintage publications ranging from the 1920s to the 1970s, in the search for just the right material for each piece. “I love to mindlessly flip through pages and then tear […]

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]]> With collage art, the process is just as important as the finished piece. Beth Hoeckel knows best. Based in Austin TX, Hoeckel loves rummaging through vintage publications ranging from the 1920s to the 1970s, in the search for just the right material for each piece.

“I love to mindlessly flip through pages and then tear out any page that I like or that speaks to me in some way,” she relayed in an interview with society6’s blog. According to Hoeckel, while her earlier work relied mainly on imagery from National Geographic, she now tries to find rarer publications, looking out for an image that speaks to her. This process is mostly spontaneous.

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#socialdistancing < #socialmediadistancing

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“The next step is cutting out specific bits from those pages and then I scan them,” says Hoeckel., adding that while in the past she used to do everything analog, she now works on digitizing her materials. “But basically I am extremely intuitive and so the whole process is informed by my subconscious,” she notes. “That includes knowing when a work is complete. It’s 100% based on feeling.”

Her intuitive approach to art making seems to be working for her. In the the past 5 years or so, her work has been exhibited worldwide and published in top tier magazines. Her clients include brands like Rookie, Domino, and The New York Times. But you can also follow her work on Instagram:

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Yum yum 🥪👅 illustration for @nytparenting

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]]> Chasing Waterfalls: Andrea Shearing’s Abstract Art https://mobispirit.com/chasing-waterfalls-andrea-shearings-abstract-art/ Fri, 31 Jul 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://mobispirit.com/?p=22230 Andrea Shearing’s artwork has a distinct flow to it. Inspired by nature, and more specifically by water, there’s a fluidity to her work, in terms of both her chosen mediums and themes. A hybrid between painting and sculpting, her abstract work explored the juxtapositions found in nature. “I am interested in exploring the fluidity of […]

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]]> Andrea Shearing’s artwork has a distinct flow to it. Inspired by nature, and more specifically by water, there’s a fluidity to her work, in terms of both her chosen mediums and themes. A hybrid between painting and sculpting, her abstract work explored the juxtapositions found in nature.

“I am interested in exploring the fluidity of water against the firm resistance of hard rock,” explained Shearing on her website. She notes that she is particularly fascinated by the movement of the ocean waves expressing the rhythm of life and the force and strength of nature.

But though her work is in direct dialogue with her natural surroundings, it isn’t meant to be representational or realistic. “My mission is to explore the emotional symbolism of something like a broken egg in a nest,” says Shearing. “This for me represents the tension between birth and death, the purity of simple form in contrast with nature’s complex structures and designs. The fragility of the shell which can beak and shatter versus its strength to encompass life and growth.”

With a background both in sculpture and painting, her creative process includes mixing minute amounts of paint to get the exact tone and intensity of colors she wants. “I work very carefully, thoughtfully considering composition and juxtaposition of tones and colors,” she notes. “I spend time choosing my palette very carefully as this is the platform from which I build the timbre and mood of the piece.”

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