Julie Hammond Illustrations

IF-Disguise

2011-08-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

Winstead needed a clever disguise to distract the other rabbits from his bipolar tendencies. ... Ah yes, this scarf should work!
Click on the image to see it larger. Thank you!

IF- Influence

2011-08-24T05:52:00.000-07:00

Eili was under the influence of the rain when she got dressed that morning.
This illustration is for the magazine Stories for Children. I've always wanted to put my children in a sailor suit like this one. Now they are too old so I can just dress my characters that way! I like how this illo. turned out. What do you think?

Doggie Wash

2011-05-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

Here is an illustration I did for the June issue of Stories For Children Magazine. It accompanies a cute story about a dog named Buster who escapes his bath and wreaks havoc on the neighborhood. Check it out June 1st!

FELLOW ILLUSTRATORS... I'm trying to find more magazines, besides the most popular Highlights and Cricket, to send my work to. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance!

Wheels

2011-05-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

This is an illustration for Guardian Angel Kids Magazine. It will be in the June issue! The story is about wheels of all kinds. Very cute! I drew a cog wheel from a clock and a pasta wheel.

Sparrow

2011-05-09T04:33:00.000-07:00

This is an illustration I did for an auction for a great ministry at my church. Check them out! Sparrow Ministries at Made for Orphans.

Animals of Israel

2011-04-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some illustrations I did for a kids discipleship book for 10-12 year olds. They are animals from Israel. I think my favorite is the Lemur in the bottom right.

The Night Herons

2011-03-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

Did this illustration for Stories for Children. I believe it will be in the May issue. The story that it accompanies is awesome!!! Through this job I learned a bit about Night Herons and Honey Fungus. Pretty cool since birds and mushrooms are two of my favorite things! Love to know your thoughts.

IF-Stir

2011-03-13T12:21:00.000-07:00

Reese and her brother Riff suddenly had a stirring in their tummies for some Big Dipper ice cream!

Saint Patrick's Trinity Shamrock!

2011-03-12T15:28:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Saint Patrick had a super amazing life? He actually was born in Britain but was captured by raiders and sent to Ireland. He became a slave of sorts and spent most of his time shepherding. As a shepherd, he spent many days nights alone in the fields. He began to think about things much bigger than himself, he thought about God, and prayed all the time. In a dream one night he thought he heard God telling him to escape. So he did! It took a very long time for him to get back to his family but he made it. With his passion for Christ he decided he wanted to become a priest. Sometime after he had become a bishop he felt a calling to go back to Ireland and preach to them about Christ's saving grace. When he got there he had a hard time explaining the trinity. It is said that he looked down and saw the shamrock, or clover, with it's three petals and used this as a model to teach his faith. The clover has three petals representing God the Father, Jesus , and the Holy Spirit yet they are together and all one. So on March 17th we celebrate Saint Patrick on the date of his death in 460 A.D.
Anyways, I made an illustration of his trinity shamrock. Feel free to print out. Happy Saint Patrick's Day!!!!

Me and My Easter book!

2011-03-10T08:49:00.000-08:00

So here is the cover of my Easter book "Why Do We Celebrate Easter?". This month starts the book tour and I'm really excited! I've been mailing out signed copies to those who can't make it to an event. Let me know if that includes you! (The tour is all local in and around St. Louis MO)
This is my first book I've illustrated so I am anxious to see how everything goes with events, sales, and opportunities that come in the future.
I should also state that this whole book thing is the reason I haven't been posting. So much to do!
Here is the link to the book on Amazon.

IF- Surrender

2011-01-31T16:36:00.000-08:00

"Surrender the cookies Mam!"

Who Me? Valentine

2011-01-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

Here is an illustration I did for my daughter's Valentines this year. As many of you know I absolutely LOVE birds. And of course there is our friend Snaid the snail.
My idea is that we will buy dum dum suckers and punch a hole just above Snaid. Then insert the sucker to make it look like he is holding it (some how). On the sucker will be a circle punch with the words, "Happy Valentine's Day" pasted to the front. Or maybe I should make a paper flag coming from the stem of the sucker with the words?! No... then it will look like he is calling the owl a dum dum. I'll go with the first idea. Thoughts?????

IF-Dusty (AKA Bunny Love)

2011-01-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

Don't let your hugs get dusty,

Use them everyday!

Noticed I hadn't done any animal illustrations recently. I thought this weeks word went perfectly!

The Blue Truck

2011-01-24T07:13:00.000-08:00

Here is an illustration I did for Guardian Angel Kids. There is a story that accompanies it and you can see them both in the February issue. If you have never visited them. They are a children's e-magazine. Very cute! Now on to illustrate the IF word-o-the-week!

apparently I'm stylish... or at least my blog is!

2011-01-11T10:34:00.000-08:00

So Susanne gave me a stylish blog award. Why thank you Susanne!
Part of how this works is I tell you 7 things about myself then I present the stylish award to 15 other fabulous bloggers. So.....
#1 I believe matching socks with your outfit is optional.
#2 I love love love reading!!!!! Historical Christian Fiction Chic Lit is my fav.
#3 Most of the jewelry on my characters I own and some of it is from my awesome friend Amy. She sells it here!
#4 My first major of choice was Fashion Design. Oooo la la!
#5 I love doing food challenges. I was a vegetarian for a year, and a raw foodist and gluten free girl for a week.
#6 My favorite food is Ethiopian cuisine.
and #7 I try to put a snail in as many illustrations as I can.

Now the 15 lucky bloggers are...
aleksandra-chabros.blogspot.com
allididwaslisten.blogspot.com
annejewett.blogspot.com
callyjanestudio.blogspot.com
candaceillustration.blogspot.com
blogdebsart.blogspot.com
double-sideofacoin.blogspot.com
humbleartsjournal.blogspot.com
jessielilac.blogspot.com
kristahamrick.blogspot.com
lovetoillustrate.blogspot.com
sniplings.blogspot.com
shishir-naik.blogspot.com
shirleysillustrations.blogspot.com
sandygrafik.blogspot.com

IF-Resolutions

2011-01-05T13:01:00.000-08:00

This is actually my thought from a few words back.."Winter" but I finally got around to finishing it so now it's for "Resolution".

Click on the image to see it and the caption larger!

IF-Phenomenon (aka The Birth of Christ)

2010-12-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

Here is another illustration from my Easter book.
And for the IF word I would say, "The birth of Jesus Christ was definitely a phenomenon!"

IF- Prehistoric

2010-12-09T09:16:00.000-08:00

Penelope soared through the air spreading Christmas cheer with the help of her prehistoric friend Peppermint. The wind tickled her nose with the sweet scent of children's dreams. Tomorrow would be Christmas and although this tale is just imaginary, the story of a little baby coming to earth to save His people from their sins is true.
May the true meaning of Christmas penetrate your heart and fill the year to come with the joyful promise of an eternity with Jesus Christ.
This is an excerpt from a Christmas story I am writing telling the true meaning of Christmas with the help of some fantastical creatures and friends.

IF- Savour

2010-12-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

Wow! It has been a long time since I posted. I've been hard at work illustrating an Easter book that will come out Spring 2011. Here is an illustration from the book that nicely fits with this weeks word.

Acrobat Bunnies without all the hoopla!

2010-09-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

So I thought I'd let you see what the illustration looked like before I added the photoshop elements. I like them both. I think each gives such a different feel. What do you think?

IF- Acrobat

2010-09-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

"COME ONE COME ALL! SEE THE MOST AMAZING FEATS PREFORMED FOR YOU THIS SATURDAY ONLY! FLUFF AND FLUTTER RABBIT ARE HERE TO ENTERTAIN YOU! GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY BECAUSE YOU KNOW WHAT THEY SAY... "HARE TODAY GONE TOMORROW!""

Had a lot of fun with this weeks word! I did a collage of sorts to really liven it up. Started with a watercolor then scanned it in and added elements in photoshop.

Allie's Cat

2010-09-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is an ATC size illustration I did for a little friend of mine Allie. She gave me a necklace from right around her neck. She is a super sweet little bit that always has a smile for me. Love to know what you think.

IF- Proverb

2010-09-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy!

Not sure if that is a proverb "proper" but I had fun with it. This illustration was done with pen and ink then watercolor crayons.

Just in case you are wondering... no, I'm not ready for snow. Truthfully I just LOVE drawing clothes and you get to wear more when its cold! ha ha

Fall Mini Series- Red Leaf

2010-08-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

Here is the second piece in my Fall Mini Series. This one is called Red Leaf. As with the first piece, Acorn, this is 2.5 by 3.5 inches on watercolor stock. This original illustration is priced at $10. This would look great mounted on a piece of burlap then placed in a knotty wood frame. If you are interested in purchasing Red Leaf please email me at juliehammond@earthlink.net . Purchase with paypal only. Thank you.

Fall Mini Series- Acorn

2010-08-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

This is an ATC size painting of one of my very favorite things... the acorn. Every fall I become slightly obsessed with them. Last year was the worst! Just ask my friends and family.
Anyways, you can purchase this original piece that is the first in a fall mini series. This 2.5 by 3.5 illustration was done with watercolor, colored pencil, and ball point pen. This piece, including shipping, is $10. If interested you may contact me at juliehammond@earthlink.net . Paypal only please.
Love to know what you think. Thank you!

IF- Atmosphere

2010-08-22T11:57:00.000-07:00

The atmosphere in the classroom was thick with anticipation as Harley volunteered to read...

Find out why in the September Issue of Guardian Angel Kids.

I didn't write the story that goes with this illo. but a very talented Ms. Ann McDuffie did!

A story I wrote

2010-08-15T20:07:00.000-07:00

Here is an illustration for a story I wrote based on an event that happened in Haiti. You see, my friend Jim recently went there and came back with some great stories and pictures.

Love to know what you think of this piece. It's a little different than the others I've done. Thoughts?

My donation to Ripple

2010-08-05T13:50:00.001-07:00

So this is my donation to Ripple. I'll post a link to the listing once I know it. I believe it will be $10 that will go to the clean up of the BP oil spill. This is an Artist Trading Card so it's small but says a lot. I'm very excited to be a part of this effort. If you have donated or will be donating please post a link to your listing. I'd love to see it.

E- Pals illustration for Guardian Angel Kids

2010-07-30T06:50:00.000-07:00

Here is another piece I did for Guardian Angel Kids magazine. Haven't heard of them? Check them out! They have games, activities, stories and videos! It's a free e-magazine for kids. This illustration will be featured with a story in the August issue.

My illustration was made by scanning in a pen and ink drawing then colored in with Photoshop.

IF- Giant

2010-07-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

Sing- Happy Birthday to you. Your cake is bigger than you! You're wearing a party hat. But you still feel so blue.

Poor little Prince Pete, sure he has a giant birthday cake and he lives in a castle but he is all alone. Couldn't his parents have at least hired some friends to come and join in this celebration? Poor little birthday boy.

IF- Satellite (a.k.a. The New Kid)

2010-07-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

So the new kid was a bit mmm... odd but Mom said everyone that's not a local Satellite 64ian looks different. Well, at least we both like War of the Worlds. That's something we have in common. Earthlings are so weird!

Ready Set Bake!

2010-05-27T10:29:00.001-07:00

Well, howdy folks! Here's another illustration featuring CC, the cupcake cowgirl. It looks like she is baking up some fun with her feathered friend Sprinkles! I modified her headband to have a small cowboy hat on it. Love to know what you think!

And now for a little MAGIC!

2010-05-19T13:18:00.001-07:00

I've always just colored in my illustrations but recently found that publishers like to see your pen and ink abilities as well. It makes sense. There are those illustrations inside beginner readers and chapter books that don't have color! So here is one I did and it's really hard NOT to fill it in. Must resist...

Week 4 of the 12 Week Challenge on zero2illo

2010-04-26T08:25:00.001-07:00

This is not the total finished product. I then took this into illustrator, finished the edges and added my poem that goes with this. So now you know how I work!
Here you see my watercolor crayons I use. I love them!
Getting ready to add in more detail over the top of everything. Her hair and the tree in the top left are saved for last. More details to come as well as textures and patterns done with acrylics .

Here is the first stage of an illustration I'm doing for Cricket Magazine. I've written a poem about fall that has inspired this piece. I wanted there to be more to the illustration than just "fall is great and I love leaves.. bla bla bla" so Gail Augusta, this girls name, is a sort of a fantasy character that lives in balance with the animals and seasons.

I'll be posting my progress as a go. I'm kind of excited about this! I've never taken pictures as I go along. Most of the time I just post the final.

Love to know any tips you have. Hopefully you can see it okay.

Thanks -Julie

Try this on for size...

2010-04-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

So... me and a friend have decided to start an online Picture Book writers critique group. Here is the blurb(Please read in a cheerful voice without a snobbish thought in sight!):

Looking for some non- beginner picture book writers to join an online critique group. If interested please send a sample of your work to be reviewed by the group. Must have had work(s) published by a paying children's publication (magazine, books, etc.) and have the intention of sending more work out at least semiannually. This group is limited to 5 authors who are serious about a career in the children's writing arena. This group only critiques picture books, short stories (for highlights magazine or cricket etc.), and children's poetry (for same publications).

Members whose work is to be critiqued must submit poem, story, etc. to the group at least one week prior to monthly online meeting so that the critiques will be well thought out. Monthly meetings will be held on the 1st Friday of every month at 7pm on a yahoo group forum in real time. If you have any questions please contact Julie Hammond atjuliehammondart@gmail.com Thank you! -Julie

So I'd love to hear if anyone is interested!

The group is called 32 Reasons because once you submit your 32 page PB the publisher has 32 reasons to take you out of the slush pile.

Free activity page just for my readers! (and their kids!)

2010-04-15T08:11:00.001-07:00

I was looking through other people's blogs and I noticed that some gave things away. I thought to myself, "You could give something away and be a nice blogger!" So... Here is an activity page for you to print. It is a writing and thinking prompt.

I'd love to know how it goes. I'm especially interested in the names your kids come up with for the characters. So please write in and tell me!

From time to time I think I'll have more give away prints. I'd love it if I could eventually have a set date I do it. But I'm going to take it slow and not commit at this point.

Anyways, have fun!!!

He is good all the time...

2010-04-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

I might possibly have the opportunity to illustrate a children's book about Easter. I'm very eager to hear more about the details. Christ is the Lord of my life and I've often prayed for an opportunity to use my gift for Him. But in my prayer, and growing knowledge of His truth, I have found that that doesn't mean that it has to be a Bible themed illustration for it it to be for God. As a Christian I am to do everything as if doing it for the Lord. ...To the best of my ability. So really no matter if I do end up illustrating this book or not, it's ALL been for Him! God is good everyday. Everyday God is good.

IF- Linked (aka Mad Boy)

2010-04-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

So... this boy is going nuts. He has lost control of reality. His little brother thinks perhaps a bottle would help considering he is acting like a baby. Not sure what his mad rant is linked to. What do you think?

Guardian Angel Kids and me!

2010-04-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

If you are a parent or a children's illustrator/writer and haven't stopped over at Guardian Angel Kids e-zine you should. It's a free magazine for kids!

I recently found them and submitted my work for consideration. I was then asked to do an illustration for a story about a "green" bus. You can check out the story and see my illustration with it by clicking here! Pretty neat stuff!

Bunnies Fall in- in color!

2010-04-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

So... I finally got a Wacom Tablet!!!Yahooooooo! I'm SO jazzed! Here is my first illustration with it. It was a pen and ink drawing- scanned in- then colored with Corell Sketch Pad.

Well... what do you think? Any tips are welcome!!

Cupcake Cowgirl!!

2010-03-29T10:41:00.001-07:00

Howdy! This spunky gal has a lot of sass... sassafras that is! She's the Cupcake Cowgirl and she loves to bake cupcakes for the cowhands that work on the ranch! I drew this character and knew there was a story to go with her. Who knows... you may see her tale cause quite a ruckus on the shelves of a bookstore near you!

It's a Party!!!

2010-03-25T13:49:00.000-07:00

This illustration was created for an invitation for a new bookshop opening around my neck of the woods. They will host birthday parties in the shop. The theme is Cardboard Castle! Sounds like it is going to be a lot of fun!

Yoon and the Moon

2010-03-13T19:40:00.001-08:00

I'm going to an agent conference this coming weekend. I'm going to read them my story about Yoon and the moon. Here is an illustration from the book. The mood is quiet, thoughtful, and imaginative. Wouldn't it be awesome if one of the agents decide to pick me up? Well, whatever happens it will be a good learning experience and I might be able to make some good contacts.

Happy Birthday Jodi! (IF-Perspective [view of life])

2010-03-01T04:58:00.001-08:00

This past weekend was my very good friend Jodi's birthday. She has been wanting me to illustrate her and her daughter since I first posted one of my other friend Jessica and her daughter. So here it is!

She is a foodie so there had to be a reference somewhere, thus the picnic basket. Her daughter's favorite color is rainbow, so the tights and the butterfly had to have some flair. Jodi is lighthearted and enjoys life, shown by her chuckle at Grace. She savors the fleeting moments with her children since they grow up so fast, displayed by the fact that she has paused for a time while her daughter shows her the butterfly.

Well, I trust you had a wonderful weekend Jodi. I love that God saw fit to put us together as friends and sister's in Christ. I love you.

IF-Clumsy (Snaid and Birl and Red)

2010-01-26T04:56:00.000-08:00

So here is my art for the Illustration word "Clumsy". (notice Snaid and Birl at the bottom)

I thought it would be fun if you wrote the caption! I'd love to see what you come up with!

After a few days I'll repost with my caption.

Now think Snaid and Birl thoughts.....
Edit added - 1-30-2010 for caption

IF-Confined (Snaid and Birl @ the Zoo)

2010-01-14T13:27:00.000-08:00

Snaid and Birl and "Art"

2009-12-28T11:40:00.001-08:00

IF- Pioneer (This just flew in!)

2009-12-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

So... I know I haven't posted in a while but I have been doing artful things. Above is a photograph of a set of postcards I recently created for my etsy shop (Just Dandy). This bird is the pioneer of the Snaid and Birl series. He started it all!

I couldn't just leave him in dust so this set is called "shadow of wings." They are simple yet artistic. This watercolor bird is printed on a flecked card stock and ready for you to write a thoughtful note on the back.

For all you Snaid and Birl fans there is more to come ... don't fret.

Have a happy new year!

IF- (Music) Snaid, Birl, and the new friend

2009-11-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

IF- (Unbalanced) Snaid and Birl on the Tightrope

2009-11-13T12:27:00.000-08:00

Snaid and Birl

2009-11-12T10:10:00.001-08:00

IF- Blurrrrrrrrrr

2009-11-11T18:13:00.001-08:00

The night was a blur. The stage... the lights... the pressure of perfection. It was almost too much! Roberta and Will sang till their fur tingled and the crowd was lulled into a trance. They had made it to Broadway and in the process had lost everything but each other. Was it worth it?... Absolutely!

A new book

2009-10-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

So excited to let you all know I've just started a new book. Here is one of the first illustrations.

At first glance...

2009-09-03T10:39:00.001-07:00

So I did this illustration after watching "New World". What a great movie!

This is done in watercolor and hopefully gives you a feeling of friendship and anticipation for what the future holds. This is my first try at depicting an Indian. It was a little tough because I had to use a lot of shades of brown but not make them smudge into each other. I'd love to know what you think.

IF- Wrapped aka Lucy and Mr. Tumnus Meet

2009-08-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

"He was a faun. And when he saw Lucy he gave such a start of surprise that he dropped all his parcels." ...

We are really into Narnia right now at our house. We are listening to the entire series on CD and of course watching the movies. Mr. Tumnus is a personal favorite. He is so sweet to Lucy. as they say in the book it was, from their first meeting, "as if they had known one another all their lives."

Impatient Graci

2009-08-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

Impatient Grace just can't wait, the icings on the cake. Sugar, sprinkles and lots of sweets are things she can't wait to eat.

Scraps

2009-08-10T15:50:00.001-07:00

So I had a piece up that I liked all the parts but together they were not working.These are the parts. Whale Shark (brushing his teeth), Lighthouse, and Scuba Boy

Hoof Beat Jazz

2009-08-05T09:20:00.001-07:00

The elephants trumpeted, the snakes gave a hiss,

This was a party giraffe didn't want to miss.

This was a fun watercolor I did after seeing an adorable photograph of a prairie dog in a conservation magazine.

IF- Modify aka "Wonder Hog"

2009-07-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

Wonder Hog heard the cry of a baker in distress. So he and his trusty sidekick, Reckless Recipe Rat (R3), modified their appearance and were off to help the discombobulated confectionist.

The Wonder Hog team live in a small hobby farm about 20 miles east of the custard stand near you. They're just like any other swine and rodent you might see but they have a secret that reveals itself when there are domestic cooking dilemmas. It may not be today, it may not be tomorrow but someday you may need their help in a "mixing mystery."

Bone-Appe'tit Birthday

2009-07-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm a day late getting this up. Yesterday was not going to work out.

Anyways, We have here a very nice birthday in an open park and ...."uh oh!" Some crazy puppy has gotten loose from his owner and is eating the birthday cake! Well, as soon as those girls stop playing with bubbles they are going to have a surprise. I wonder what they are going to have for dessert now? Perhaps this illustration needs a sequel, eh?. We'll see.

The birthday has gone to the dogs- sketch

2009-07-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

So I really want to put something up everyday. It was a busy day so I wasn't able to paint. I will finish this tomorrow and put up the final. FYI the little pup will not look so mean once I put in the color. He is a husky puppy so those are going to be white eyebrows. I can't wait to see how this comes out.

Now... must go read and find out how horrible things are in "Tess of the D'Urbervilles". I never thought I'd enjoy a tragic tale so much. Check it it out for yourself!

Girl and Toad Unite!

2009-07-27T14:25:00.001-07:00

This watercolor was inspired by my daughter. Yesterday she found a a baby toad in the back yard. She named him the ever-popular name, as far as toads go, Toady. She gave it plenty of attention, gathering grass for soft bedding, water for amusement and bathing, and even a shell from a local river for variety of scenery. She even tried to teach it to swim by dunking it in a cup of water. In the end she knew that there would come a time when she must bid her dear Toady farewell. That time came after dinner, per the strong enforcement of her parental units. She still thinks of her cold blooded chum, as I'm sure he thinks of her, and wonders if she will ever see him again. Only God knows if they shall ever cross paths again. But one thing is certain. We will all come across new friends that we will learn to love, warts and all.

The squirel and his boy

2009-07-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun making this scene. I have noticed that I lack scenes in my illustrations. And so with that I made one. I wanted there to be many things to see. I also wanted simplicity, another thing I have trouble with. So here is the outcome of things to work on. For a while I believe my illustrations will work on these points. May you enjoy my adventures in illustrations.

Revised Taco Tango

2009-07-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

So I revised the Tango illustration. Added a spanish newspaper clipping and the title. I like it so... much better. Has the feeling I wanted all along.

IF-Idle the Sloth

2009-07-25T17:21:00.000-07:00

I thought of so many things when I saw the word for Illustration Friday was Idle. I thought of an idle car, a person lounging on the beach, "idle hands are the devil's playground" and others. But then I really wanted to have something that I could possibly put in my children's illustration portfolio. Then I remembered the sloth, a mammal so idle that vines actually start to grow around this creature. I looked up baby sloth, on google of course, and found the most adorable video! From that I made this illustration and created the vines around it for flair. Let me know what you think. Hope you had a productive week! -Julie

IF- Taco does the Tango

2009-07-23T11:35:00.001-07:00

Taco loved mexican food, rolling under the juniper bushes, and dreaming of standing on his hind legs and doing the Tango.

I painted this watercolor today per the theme of Illustration Friday "Tango". The painting has more vibrancy but you get the idea. Let me know what you think.

Making Web Templates

2009-07-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

So I've been making some web templates for my friend Byron. They will be available for purchase on smashly.net I'll let you know once they are up and ready. For now take a look!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2009-06-20T10:56:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthdya to you, Happy Birthday dear Daaaad. Happy Birthday to you! So my Dad is 61 today, so I made him an assortment of desserts the best I know how from 3 states away. We have chocolate silk pie, lemon cupcakes with a cherry on top, and lastly homemade buttermints. The best part... completely calorie and fat free. I love you Dad!!! I'm so glad you were born. I can't imagine having a more wonderful Dad. The joy I get from talking with you, the way you say my name with that tells me how much you love me, and your laugh are things I can't live with out. So really,.. you are a present to me. And I thank God everyday for you. Your phone calls are something I look forward to everyday. I am blessed to know as my father and friend. I can't wait to see you soon.

It's in the Jeans!

2009-06-15T15:01:00.000-07:00

So I've painted children's jeans before but not my own. Today that changed. These are a pair of wide legged jeans that I painted with fabric paint. I used only white on these fora simple look. I think they turned out well. I ended up painting four jeans today and they might end up on my etsy shop, juliehammondart.etsy.com. I've emailed a local resale store first before listing them. Let me know what you think! or if you would like to see more. Yup,... it's definitely in the jeans!

Just Dandy card slide show

2009-05-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

I'm very pleased to show you a slide show featuring some of my cards I sell at my etsy store Just Dandy. I design notecards as well as wedding invitations and prints of my art. Take a look and let me know what you think. Anyways it was fun to make. Enjoy!

Happy ETSY Day!!!

2009-04-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

It's ETSY day today. If you haven't visited ETSY before check them out. It is a great place to get some one of a kind stuff. They have everything from art, face scrubbies, pottery, and my fav paper goods!
In honor of this day shipping, at my store, will be $1 today ONLY so if you were waiting to buy something do it today!
Happy shopping! -Julie

Poppiedot cards

2009-04-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

This series of notecards is called Poppiedot cards. I love poppies and I love polk-a-dots, put them together and voila! I am selling these if you are interested. My email is in my profile.

Our Hands His Heart

2009-04-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

Here are some options I gave a client for a church invitation. The event is called "Our Hands His Heart". The event is for ladies and the subject stressed will be "doing God's will". Which one do you like best?

Over the River...

2009-04-02T13:47:00.001-07:00

So I think I might start a series of illustration type works. I took a bunch of photographs around town and I'll mix them with my illustrations. The works will be called Enchanted St. Louis. Let me know what you think.
This first work is called, "Over the River". I took the photo at my favorite park, mixed it with my an illustration of an owl, and then had fun in photoshop! I think I'll name this reoccurring owl character Octavius. ... Unless you have a better name?

Bookish Wear and More!

2009-03-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

That's right folks! I've just added some new super cool T's to my cafepress store The Loud Librarian. We've got Bookish Wear for those "Cover Girls" and Art with A Vengeance for the arty types. Check it out you might actually find something ya must have. If you have any suggestions let me know!

Mr. Snuffleupagus can cook!

2009-03-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

I made this as a gift for a friend of mine. My nick name for him is Snuffleupagus because he's is super nice, caring, and ya just wanna give him a big hug everytime you see him. Actually today is his birthday! "Happy birthday Snuffles!"
Anyways, he likes to cook so I made this as a cover to a cookbook he has to fill with his recipes. Obviously, the photo is not mine, I've never had the please of meeting Mr. Snuffleupagus. I jazzed up the picture in Photoshop. Let me know what you think.
Side Note- did you know that Mr. Snuffleupagus is in the Guinness Book of World Records for the logest eyelashes on a puppet? Just a bit of trivia to impress your friends with.

It's Raining Creativity!

2009-03-02T08:11:00.001-08:00

This illustration was created as an entry to OFFF. An international illustrators catalogue. I'm still waiting to hear back from them but I wanted to put it on my blog. I had so much fun with this one! The theme was "This isn't flying ,this is falling with style" So here we have some very stylish ladies falling with grace. Check out the boots of the lady in the bottom right,... I want them! The photograph in the back is from a hike by the Meremac River last spring.
Okay, let me know what you think. Ta!

A Clue- Robin Hood

2009-02-19T11:12:00.001-08:00

So here is a sketch I did of Robin Hood in the BBC TV show. My daughter is bonkers over Robin Hood! We get the shows from netflix and the library. So... what do you think? Who is your favorite character on the show? Maybe I'll sketch them. Gotta go . Off the fight the bad guys!

In the Elements

2009-01-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

She's Cool, She's Hip, She's... In the Elements.
So this was inspired by winter clothing, the artist John William Waterhouse, because he too loved to draw women with red hair, and just all around having fun drawing.
I love this girl. She doesn't even know she's cool. She's just trying to stay warm, and keep her unruly locks out of those tree branches, which let me tell you is harder than one might think in the wind.
So what shall I name her, eh? Something earthy, fun, not typical, yet not shove it in your face different? Let me know what you think.

Loud Librarian- Cafepress Store

2009-01-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

Hello all! It has been way too long since I posted but I'm getting back on track. I've been a little obsessed about getting my Cafepress shop up and running. Feel free to go, shop and tell me what you think! It has been a lot of fun! I have super cute valentine and un-valentine shirts and note cards. Anyways. Check it out! - Thanx
The Loud Librarian- www.cafepress.com/juliehammond

Beautiful Feet

2008-12-24T11:01:00.001-08:00

My friend Jodi loves shoes and the color green. This image will be made into greeting cards for her. The shoes are my daughters. She says they reminder her of the movie Penelope. If you haven't seen it I highly recommend it! Anywho, how would you like to receive this card in the mail?

Bird Ornaments

2008-12-24T10:40:00.001-08:00

So... I've been away for far too long working on Christmas gifts and such. Thought I'd fly in and let you see something I've been up to. These ornaments are for my father in law who loves to watch birds in his backyard. I sculpted them from Model Magic Clay then painted them with acrylic paints. Let me know what you think. Merry Christmas!

The Richardson's CD Cover (possibly)

2008-11-27T09:13:00.001-08:00

So I'm terribly blessed to have such gifted friends, and the Richardsons are no exception. They sing and compose their own music. It takes your breath away sometimes. Their love for Jesus rings true in their songs. Perhaps I can talk them into making a youtube and I''l show you. Anyways, here is a thought I had for their CD Cover.

IF- Pretend

2008-11-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

Okay, so let's "pretend" they are not monsters of the trees. They don't await an unsuspecting human to walk under their perch and then "BAM!" throw all bits of natures ammo at you. Anything from helicopter pods, walnuts, and, my favorite, digested gumball nuts. Be fooled by their sweet faces. Ignore plight in life to overtake your backyards.
But as stated in the beginning we ARE pretending. So gaze on their cute faces and their adorable scurrying. Say it with me... "AWWWWWWE"

Ol' George

2008-08-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Well, after I did Abe the only logical president to do was George. So here he is complete with a powder wig and pink blush. I don't know who decided that this was the look of important people. Someone got a laugh out of this fad that's for sure. Let me know what you think!

Mommy Calling Cards

2008-08-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

These are some Mommy Calling Cards I created for my etsy shop. The point is that when you meet a possible new playmate for your child you hand the caregiver a card. Each card template is customized with your child's name, your name, phone number, and email. In other words no more fishing around in your purse for an old reciept to write on. Check out other templates and papergoods I make at my shop! juliehammondart.etsy.com

IF- Memories (aka Mr. President)

2008-08-22T15:58:00.001-07:00

Ahhhh... remember the old days? Where have all the good presidents gone?
So... I tried my hand at illustrating a president. I'm pretty impressed that I can actually do a likeness that looks likes someone. I don't think I've ever tried that before. It was fun! Who should I do next? I'd love to hear your thoughts, or read them anyway.

IF- Baby

2008-06-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

Teeter, toddle, coo, ah-choo, slurp, burp, sleep, so sweet. Don't you just love babies?

IF-Wide

2008-05-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Far and wide across the land,
Kids go play in dirt and sand,
Get out of the house,
Turn off that TV,
Go make a tree fort,
Perhaps a tepee.
You were made to run be free,
Skip and hop, giggle with glee.
Play hopscotch with chalk of blue,
Jump rope, climb trees, underdogs too.
Electronics are cool, and of course have a place.
But no mud's on your shoe from a virtual race.

IF-Electricity

2008-05-15T08:24:00.001-07:00

This weeks word is electricity. Who has an illustration about that? So I thought about things I like to draw and voila I came up with a record player. Actually, the first thing I came up with was a radio but I wasn't looking for the 1980's boom box look, so slowly it evolved into a record player.
Okay so..... Katlyn can't wait to listen to her favorite song , Strawberry Fields, at her friend Rubie's house. They are going to have the best time. Maybe Rubie's mom will help them bake a delicious treat. Katlyn decides she'd better run to Rubie's house.

IF- Seeds

2008-05-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

I thought about doing a seed packet for this weeks word, Seeds, but it seemed so obvious. Then I remembered my daughter, and how much she loves blowing dandelion puffs, as all children do. No wonder we have so many dandelions! The first illustration is the essentials, and the second has all the glitz. What do you think of them?

IF-Wrinkle

2008-04-28T09:25:00.001-07:00

So... the theme was "wrinkle" and what's more wrinkly than an elephant? I'm thinking about making more letter cards. What do you think?

IF-Save

2008-04-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here is another example I gave for the tea invitation. So my take of "Save" is Save the date.

Kanga Rooney

2008-04-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

This is an illustration I did for a run/walk t-shirt. It was denied but I liked it so much I thought I should show you. There is just something about marsupials. If you have children check out this super cute book "pocket babies" by Sneed B. Collard III too cute! Every page will make you say, "awwwww".

IF-Homage

2008-04-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

Let us pay homage to the "spot of tea" that kings and queens partook. Announcing special occasions in many a children's book. So raise your cup and take your cue. Would you like sugar, -one lump or two?
This is an invitation I did for a tea party staring a Jackie O impersonator. The tea bag to the left will have the the information of the party written on it, then be tied to a string and hung from the handle. Too cute! Wish I could go! "tsk tsk"

IF- Pet Peeves

2008-03-26T09:03:00.000-07:00

This is my pet, Peeves (actually it's Peanut). Peeves the bunny is a very loud muncher. I can't stand it when you can hear people, or pets, eating their food. I get totally grossed out. I hope I'm not a loud eater. Cause... would you know if you were? (Side note: I really don't have a pet bunny)

Chew on this!

2008-03-26T06:17:00.001-07:00

This is a series of illustrations to start my new blog "Cupcake Whimsy". I love drawing food, and I figure that there are other people out there that do too. Once I get it all set up anyone who would like to submit a food illustration, and brief description, can email me a submission and I'll put it on the blog. More information about that later. These illustrations have not been tinkered with yet. They are done in watercolor. I think I will play with them a little in photoshop, and show you the finished product later. Till then... Bon Appetite!

IF-Heavy

2008-03-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

Being a mother is heavy business. Bringing a child into the world changes your life, and causes you to rethink your priorities. In a flash, it's not about you anymore. Truthfully, it never was.

IF-Leap

2008-03-04T19:35:00.001-08:00

This weeks word for illustration friday is "Leap." This is part of an illustration I'm doing for a book I wrote. The girls name is Yoon. You might be seeing more of her so... I might as well introduce you. Yoon, these are my blog friends. Blog friends, this is Yoon. Sorry she is not very talkative. But don't we all need more friends that can just listen?

Yes, I'm still drawing!

2008-02-24T14:36:00.000-08:00

Okay, so it has been a long time since I last posted. I've been doing another freelance job for LaTeen Magazine. If you didn't check them out the last time I mentioned them, you should! Anyways, here is one of the illustrations I did for the them. I did 5 spots for a quiz for the summer issue. I'll see if I can squeeze in this weeks IF but I'm not making any promises.