I started Studio Danae. back in 2005. After the sudden loss of my father to cancer, I quit my job at a renowned stationery store in Boston, designing wedding invitations, and decided to pursue freelance full time. I wanted to be able to continue my graphic design work while having an outlet to illustrate as well. Since then I've worked on everything from 3D paper craft projects and photo greeting cards to book illustrations and identity design. Eventually I would love to write and illustrate my own coffee table books. I find that writing is an integral part of my creative process.
I love to travel whenever possible. Some of the
Places I Have Been that remain an inspiration to me are Italy and Costa Rica.
The art, architecture, landscape, FOOD, and general way of life in Italy, for me are unrivaled. However, you can't beat the slow and breezy drives on the dirt roads of Costa Rica.
The colorful patterns, wild life, and beaches will forever hold a place in my heart.
One of the Places I Have Never Been and would love to go to is Sardinia. My grandfather was born there and I've always wanted to see where he grew up. I think JHill would really make a spectacular print about Sardinia (hint hint).
3. What's the best part of being an artist in Portland, OR?
The best part of being an artist in Portland is the constant flow of inspiration. Whether it's hiking Mt. Hood, camping at the coast, eating amazing food, going to a plethora of local art events, or gardening in my own back yard, I find myself hard pressed to lose the urge to create. If anything, I have a hard time deciding what project to start next.
4. How did you and JHill meet?
Jen and I met when we were freshman in art school at Mass Art in Boston. We were at an orientation in the courtyard hanging out on the grass and we started talking. After that we ran into each other in the dorms a few times and the rest is pretty much history. When we were sophomores we moved in together and enjoyed an amazing and hilarious three years as roommates. She is my closest and dearest friend and I love her like mad!
5. How did the Family Tree materialize? What was your design process?
Jen approached me about creating some illustrations for the
family tree project. The process was pretty organic. She sent me a few inspirational images and told me what her vision was. From there I sketched out a bunch of different ideas, we narrowed them down and then I vectorized the drawings. After that we sent files back and forth until we were both happy with how our styles worked together. The last piece of the puzzle was deciding on a few different color pallets, which I found to be a really fun process. I'd love to collaborate again with Jen in the future.
6. Just for kicks - what's your favorite kind of tree?
I LOVE weeping willows because they are elegant and enchanting. They remind me of southern belles and classic novels.
