As I’m working through my second Moleskine art sketchbook, I continue to challenge myself. Creating new characters is usually at the forefront of my mind, and this “state of the art” spread was the culmination of the past few days’ focus. Of course, it always helps to have a connection to the characters you create; in this case, because I have a connection to each of the US States depicted, the characters sort of naturally evolved.

“State of the Art” Character Illustrations

State of the Art character illustrations by Joana Miranda

Other Character Illustration Projects…

Currently include a spread depicting my mom in her many activities and moods. She has always been a great study subject. These days I’m even more grateful to be able to observe my subject “in the field”, so to speak, since my husband and I are currently visiting my mom. (I promise to share those illustrations soon!)

But…

I admit that I am finding it hard to fit in as much drafting table time as I’d hoped. That’s partly because I don’t have a drafting table here. But it’s also because my mom’s newest kitten, Tita, seems to monopolize my attention. (Being as soft as a bunny rabbit and irresistibly cute doesn’t hurt.)

By the way…

I will be putting up another of my Art Bag: Time Saving Tips and Tricks videos tomorrow. And if you missed my last one (on kneaded erasers) you can still see it here.

Comments

  1. Jim says:

    Great work, Joana, it is great to see you, your art, and Tita! Be well, and stay safe, my friend. ~Jim

    • Joana says:

      Hi Jim,

      Thanks so much for continuing to cheer me on! We’ll soon be getting our own little kitten (because what else can you do during a pandemic?) I’ll post pictures of our “baby” as soon as we have him. 🙂

      I had hoped that this would be all over by now. Sigh. It’s looking more and more like life for us artists will be on hold until a year from now.

      I hope you and Sasha are doing well and that you’re staying healthy and safe!

      All best wishes,
      Joana

    • Joana says:

      I’m glad I can still qualify as your (geriatric) baby. 🙂

      Thank you for sharing Tita (and Puckee) with us!
      xox – J

    • Joana says:

      Hi Helen,

      Well the kitties have their moments – on both ends of the spectrum. The other night I actually got a photo of them kissing (well, touching noses.) However, there’s also been lots of chasing and hissing (mainly from Puck.) Even though Tita is smaller, she seems to be fearless and will think nothing of pouncing on Puck.

      I hope you have a lovely week, my dear!
      xox – Joana

  4. Pamela Frame says:

    You are wonderful. So accomplished, and we saw it all happening from the start!

    I have one or two antique drafting tables with cast iron based in my garage. My dad gave them to me. Wish I could beam it to you.

    • Joana says:

      Hi Pam,

      So lovely to hear from you! I just checked out your gorgeous flower website – it looks wonderful. The two custom bouquets you made me are still beautiful. I’m hoping that our soon-to-be little kitten “baby” won’t be interested in them, though. But he’s a Toybob (will always be small), so maybe he won’t want to be up high?

      I hope you and Bill have been weathering 2020 well. I had so hoped that the fall would bring about some decent antivirals and maybe a return to normal work, but even the antivirals seem to be a ways off still. Sigh.

      Getting to focus on our little kitty will be the silver lining in this pandemic for me, I think. So far, we’ve done pretty well being cooped up in our apartment; but he’s sure to add some needed life to our routine.

      Sending a big hug and lots of love,
      Joana

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