Design is so neat because so much of it happens in the background.

I opened a kinder surprise toy over Christmas, it was a paper balloon frog. Whose job was it to figure out how to fold that huge thing into a tiny kinder egg? I can just imagine them sitting at a desk with a pile of prototypes folding, folding, refolding.

Who designs the patterns on toilet paper? I bet that job is much more complicated than it seems - there are so many limitations. In my experience, simple and conservative patterns are the hardest to work with. They need to be unique enough so that the powers that be feel satisfied that they're new but they can't be too unique or too different or they're no longer conservative. There's very little wiggle room!

Thought I'd post this study while I'm at it! This time using a softer brush and trying out a bit more blending.

This is one of two pieces that are part of a group show called Spectrum Week at House of Energy in Toronto. If you're in the area, come see them in person!

This is a drawing from August that I just came across again tonight. I was just heading to bed but now I suddenly want to draw with markers..

Just playing around. I can't believe how much grey skin has! Also, this is apparently the facial expression I make when I'm concentrating really hard.

My octopus obsession continues! This is one of two pieces that are part of a group show called Spectrum Week at House of Energy in Toronto. If you're in the area, come see them in person (also pick up some tea - who knew dried leaves in hot water could be so delicious?!)

Alexis Barattin Idler Interview

Alexis Barattin was interviewed by Rosemary Van Deuren over at the Idler: Peeps to Watch Out For. Thank you, Rosemary!

I have two drawings that I'm itching to show but they're in their pencil stages and everyone knows it's bad juju to show your pencils before your final. I have been working really hard this week on some new pieces that will be hanging on some perty store walls in the near future. More on that later!

Unrelated: I've noticed that historical Canadian politicians have become popular lately, what's with that?

A drawing from last week that may turn into something this week!