Illustrated Journalling + Building Community through Art

Last week's updates plus some spreads of my illustrated journal!

I

Magnification of Spirit

After riding the high of the buildspace season 5 IRL event , I came home to my lonely desk - Nevertheless feeling motivated that there were people who may be interested in reading my book. Finding community is incredibly difficult as an independent illustrator and even though social media platforms are supposed to help us ‘make’ connections, most times I feel like I am lonelier than ever, drawing away and making things by myself in my studio.

Meeting people in real life reminded me how important it was to feel like you are a part of something.

In a fitting article from The Marginalian by Maria Popova, she discusses how Patti Smith talks about ‘Seeking out that which magnified your spirit’.

Seek out what magnifies your spirit.** Patti Smith, in [discussing William Blake and her creative influences]talks about writers and artists who magnified her spirit — it’s a beautiful phrase and a beautiful notion. Who are the people, ideas, and books that magnify your spirit? Find them, hold on to them, and visit them often. Use them not only as a remedy once spiritual malaise has already infected your vitality but as a vaccine administered while you are healthy to protect your radiance.

Patti Smith’s original podcast captured by the New York Public library podcast explores her thoughts on love friendship and relationships and surely worth listening to.

II

Illustrated Journalling

In an attempt to show everyone my completed illustrated journal of my recent trip to Portland, I made a flip through video. I am still getting used to this new format, but I hope this gives you a calm moment to look into my journals. Maybe next time I’ll do one with a talking walk through explaining my thoughts ?

III

Eskimo Cookbook

While searching for obscure and fascinating dishes from around the world, I stumbled upon a subreddit dedicated to food historians. Curious, I engaged with the community, asking them to share any unique recipes they knew of. One member pointed me to a delightful find: the Eskimo Cook Book created by the students of Shishmaref Day School in Alaska. This charming collection of recipes was compiled by the students, featuring dishes taught to them by their mothers and prepared in their homes. Each recipe is accompanied by endearing illustrations, and the book exudes a genuine warmth that comes from unpolished, unedited text. The proceeds from the book's sales supported the Alaska Crippled Children’s Association—a true gem in every sense.

IV

Next week, I’ll share updates on my next dish will be on my upcoming book Food for thought : an illustrated book about obscure food from around the world!

Till then, take good care!