Behind the scenes
What would happen if I created an art book?
The development of my inaugural seasonal art book through Fall 2024 was both comfortable and uncomfortable at the same time.
Temperatures in Toronto were fluctuating wildly, I was carrying myself through a writing-heavy Term 4 and 5 of my diploma program, and spending a lot of time indoors. When I wasn’t indoors, I tried to find beauty in the cityscape and challenged myself to think beyond the walls of the urban area. Still, my heart and soul longed for a good walk in the park, fresh forest air, and an endless expanse of fields without skyscrapers.
My favourite memories revolve around being outdoors.
I grew up in a picturesque neighbourhood of Lambton County on the shores of Lake Huron in Ontario, a place that was once the site of Canada’s first commune. As a child I played barefoot in the grass, and explored the beach, park, fields and forests close to our modest, multigenerational homestead. It was the sweet life.
The idea of a seasonal art book was born from the realization that my connection to the natural world is not just a source of great inspiration, but a deep and meaningful relationship worth preserving and protecting. As I evolved the idea, I built an immersive artistic experience to reflect the essence of the season, inspired by nature, design and style. Each release is intended to be a tribute to the land, water and sky, and a celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and the beauty of the natural world in Canada.
The marketing for the book evolved quickly over the first few weeks of January 2025. I developed the branding, redesigned and relaunched my website, designed and curated accents, and developed copy and content. I even test drove Pinterest again. Briefly.
When the printed art books were delivered, I unboxed a fresh, clean hardcopy. I barely broke the spine to look inside because I wanted to wait and open it with my Mom. When I presented the book to her, I wasn’t more than a minute into my pitch when she said: You spelled your name wrong.
Ugh. Good thing I only ordered a run of ten books.
An artist’s creations never come together exactly as expected. Some of the best creations come together by happenstance, and inspire you to look deeper - and feel more.
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