Arcane Arts

Over the weekend the husband and I braved the cold rain to stop in at the holiday Renegade Craft Fair and boy were we not disappointed I was amazed to see so many people, it was so crowded I don't think I was even able to see all the booths, but I suppose that's a great sign of folks supporting artists. One booth that did however catch my eye was the colorful walls of Arcane Arts. With natural elements, dreamy scenery and even custom portraits I was sure to grab artist Adrienne Vita's card for future commissioned work. I would love a custom print of our little one by her! And aside from illustrations and prints, Adrienne also has a fun assortment of pillows too.

images by arcane arts

Kari Herer photography

I've mentioned artist and photographer Kari Herer here before and while perusing her shop again noticed all her new and beautiful images. I like to visit shops frequently since you never know when they will be updated  and I was not disappointed with Kari's newest and greatest. With a mix of soft colors, fresh florals and simple illustrations, these would be perfect to add a little pizzazz to any wall. We have been collecting unique animal findings for our growing girl and one of these might just have to be purchased for her little area. They are just so colorful and detailed, perfect for growing eyes.

images via kari herer

Julia Pott

After watching Here comes the waves by The Decemberists it got me wondering what's new in Ms. Pott's world. And she's been busy! I've mentioned the talented Julia Pott before, I've always liked her style of drawing and wit. Back in school I had board after board of scratchboard filled with lines and shapes just like these. Minus the adorable animals in knitwear. Stop by her shop before October 12th, she is making the leap from London to New York and all of her great prints won't be coming with her! Thinking I need to pick one up for our place, the husband is also a big fan- he even dreams of a Pott drawing as a tattoo, he's been talking about it forever and after showing him this he got that much more excited.

photos via julia pott

Prints and a giveaway link

Seems like I am always on the hunt for fun and colorful prints to spruce up this place, so when I stopped by Sandy a la Mode and saw these illustrations from Barcelona artist Judy Kaufmann I knew I had to check out her shop. I just love all the color combinations, some soft and gentile like the 'dimensions of a volcano' print or the vibrant and vivid like the 'houses of color' one of my favorites. Not only was it a great find thanks to Sandy, she is also hosting a lovely little giveaway of one of Judy's prints going on right now! So if you are looking for a little print, stop on by and enter... I know I am.

photos via judy kaufmann

Hue Bucket

I just love these illustrations from artist Hue Bucket, aka Chalermphol Harnchakkha, what a name!  They have a slight wood block feel with impeccable detail.  You can get these in prints, canvas and even iphone covers and even fashion here and here as well as the illustrated blog.  I'm totally digging this ocean like bedroom inspired image!

photos via hue bucket

I love doodle

How fun are these illustrations from Malaysian artist Lim Heng Swee of I love doodle!?  Perfect for kids rooms, or even the young at heart, these are just fun.  I love that little giraffe, any lover of books would love this little print.  And do check out his blog where he has a doodle a day, I can't even imagine how hard it would be to come up with fun drawings daily!

photos via i love doodle

The little illustrator

These adorable illustrations from The Little Illustrator are the perfect solution to revamping any youngsters room.  Kids rooms are great for changing up the decor, there are so many great options that will keep your little one inspired to dream.  With a slightly more mature color palette, these illustrations are perfect for when your wee one makes the big leap to the big kid bed, its big kid art.  And there are tons to choose from, so be sure to check out the shop!

photos via the little illustrator 

Caitlin Kuhwald Illustration

I've been going to craft fairs almost every weekend for the last 3 weeks, and its been awesome.  Not only did I pick up a few goodies (for myself of course!) it gave me a chance to check out tons of great shops and crafty people.  One booth that caught my eye at both Bazaar Bizarre and Renegade SF was Caitlin Kuhwald Illustration.  I mean, with Ira Glass at the front, how you could you not be drawn in?  With a background in illustration, Caitlin creates wonderful giclee prints that you have to look at twice just to take in all the detail.  You can find more at Caitlin's site, blog and shop.

photos via caitlin kuhwald

On the softer side

It seems every week, I have another friend announce they are pregnant or go into labor (last week 2 people I know went into labor the same day!) and it got me thinking again about nurseries.  No longer are parents stuck with the standard princess's and cartoon characters to fill a room with questionable color combos.

And when I came across the soft palettes from Australian artist Nikki Catalano, I just had to share.  Aside from having a memorable last name (if you made it out of the 90s without watching Angela and Jordan Catalano's teen angst, I'm amazed) Nikki creates wonderful scenes using a mixture of hand drawing, collage, digital coloring and even a little fabric, making for truly unique pieces.  And if you like owls, you have got to check out My Owl Barn, a free 2011 downloadable calendar with images from 30 different artists including Nikki!

photos via nikki catalano

Nate Duval

I cannot wait to get my newest purchases from Nate Duval up on my wall.  I may have even set a record for myself, purchased the art and frames within the same weekend!  (P.S, Aaron Brothers is having their buy one get one for a penny deal!!)  While at Renegade, the husband pointed out Nate's booth and we quickly made a bee line to his posters and prints and walked away with Mr. Mum (below) and half of the Delectable duo (the artichoke).  Not only are his designs interesting, they are a great deal.  And if you are interesting in  screen printing, you have got to see how Nate and his pal Journe make each piece.  Super cool.

photos via nate duval

For the walls

How fun are these illustrations from Cosas Minimas! Designed by Blanca Gomez, these characters have so much, well, character. I think this little jazz man is my favorite.

photos via cosas minimas

Lab Partners

I'm not sure if its the casual style, fun colors or detail, but something about illustrations just gets me every time.  They are just so pleasing to look at and can be changed in frames so fast, its like having a never ending shopping spree.  I came across Lab Partners out of San Francisco and fell in love with all of artists Ryan Meis and Sarah Labieniec's work on the spot.  I can't wait for the shop to open up again (you can sign up here for info), until then, their wonderful portfolio will have to do.

photos via lab partners 

Time to change it up

Happy Monday everyone. Thought I would start the week of with a few fun prints from Mrs. Eliot Books.  You can finds prints, wooden books, tea towels and stationery created by London artist Francesca Iannaccone.  I love her prints, they are very whimsical and fun, and of course, have tons of color.  A great way to revamp your space is to simply change your artwork and accessories.  Plus, it gives you a reason to shop!

photos via mrs eliot books

Etsy top 3 Tuesday

Today's trip through Etsy is filled with a few lovely home decor pieces for your viewing pleasure.  First up are the delicate linen pillows from Dedeetsyshop.  Embellished with flowers, animals, and stitching, these pillows are perfect for rooms that need a focal point.

Have a room that could use a colorful and charming touch?  Check out Something's hiding in here.  These little blocks would be fun in a kids room or placed together for a little collection of color.  You can also find the ever popular mustache on a stick for all the upcoming summer photo booth fun.

Entertaining this summer?  The small vases from Rou Designs would be wonderful on a tabletop filled with florals.  Made with white porcelain, these vases and shakers are great for modern looks.