elephants

I've been playing around with a new watercolor technique that Mary Jane Begin demonstrated at Kindling Words. That's right watercolor... She uses a modified old master technique that allows layering... I'm in love.

Kindling Words West

I've just returned from Kindling Words West, an inspiring week at Ghost Ranch Abiquiu in New Mexico.

I went with the hopes of kick starting some writing projects, and with the insight of Tim Wynn-Jones I did. I also learned an amazing amount from Mary Jane Begin who teaches color at RISD.

It was an incredible opportunity to be surrounded by desert light and fine friends.

Young Writers Conference

Friday, March 28th I was pleased to once again participate in the Alta Vista Young Writers Conference. The conference was started years ago by a couple mothers who have since turned the idea into a wonderful business. They do a fantastic job promoting writing to young kids by bringing in professionals from screenplay and song writers to sports journalists to teach workshops. The kids' enthusiasm is incredibly inspiring. I've come away eager to work. You can check out their website at www.youngwritersconference.org

The Twelve Days of Christmas in Wisconsin

The Twelve Days of Christmas in Wisconsin, (Sterling 2007) was released last fall and promptly sold out. (Much to the dismay of certain family members who didn't get a copy) I'm happy to announce it's now available at BarnesandNoble.com! Next holiday season we'll be prepared with copies to spare.

Punk Wig Trailer

The unofficial trailer for Punk Wig

by Lori Ries, Illustrated by me, published by Boyds Mills Press, 2008

Available in bookstores now!

My soft tummied toy TayTay. She's aprox. 4 inches. tall. This is her party dress.

Kitty TayTay

My latest obsession is developing a series of books/toys based on a character that is suspiciously close in temprement to a particualrily adored two year old... hmmnm wonder who that could be... Here's Kitty TayTay in her pop-up kitchen.