here to there

From Florida, to Indiana, to North Carolina, to Texas and Oregon.

That's where I've been lately.

Not actually, but in my studio among scraps of old papers and postcards and state shapes:

My brother Josh and I are collaborating on the project called The 50 Nifty. The idea is to create an art piece for each state, including facts and "artifacts" specific to the state and my style. Our goal is to launch a kickstarter campaign this fall where prints (among other things) of every state are available for purchase. 

The hope is that people get involved and more art goes up in homes across the US. We love the idea of all types people being able to afford a piece of art that they actually care about and have a connection to. And since everyone has a home state...well, we're hoping there's immediate connection to the art. Using vintage papers and post cards from each state, state birds, facts and flowers--we're aiming for a home-y vibe with a touch of kitsch. And by making the walls we live in more beautiful and expressing where we come from, this project celebrates the idea of "home."

I also like the idea of grouping the state paintings together as most of us call multiple places home. Dan and I will have CA and IL up on our walls :) Ironically, I haven't gotten to those pieces...I must be feeling the pressure to get those paintings just perfect.

Overall, I have loved this project. I hope these pieces are warm and approachable. The subject matter is light hearted and quirky--and I have embraced that! It has freed me to think outside my usual style. Did I mention I am learning a lot? Not just about color and composition---but STATES :)

CA and UT are in the works! Stay tuned as I will keep the updates coming. Soon we'll have website were you will be able to track the progress and learn more about the project.