New sketch: Elle Decor Editor in Chief Michael Boodro

I read this colour pronouncement on Michael Boodro's Instagram on Friday and thought it was so cute -- just had to make an illustration of it. 
#sketch #illustration #MichaelBoodro #ElleDecorUSA #editor #colour #interiordesign #draw

New work: Jenna Lyons

I would call her style  'elegant librarian' with an androgynous eccentric edge.

I love how her outfits fuse colours, textures, patterns + materials in a quirky mix.

#fashion #illustration #style #icon

Illustrations for Globe and Mail Style

I ended 2014 with one of my favourite illustration gigs ever: 

The cover + 6 illustrations for Globe and Mail Style. 

Art direction by Bryan Gee. 

 

Globe Style Cover
I incorporated collage elements into all the illos.

I was really happy with this hand and champagne glasses. 
It was Bryan 's idea to add a gold frame to the server's cuff for an over the top 'richy rich' look.

Had a lot of fun doing this overhead brunch scene. I love drawing hands!

This illo shows how a guest can be helpful for a Holiday host. :-)

This illo accompanied a piece by the owner of Joe Beef.
This 'big group of people celebrating in the woods' scene winter is based on my own very cozy get togethers in my favourite cottage in Kazabazua Quebec. 
Feel cozy just looking at it. :-) #grateful #happy 

#illustration #food illustration #fashion illustration #cooking illustration

Highlights from LA and PalmSprings

A few photos from a very fun trip to L.A. and Palm Springs.

 The stunning Venice Canals

Blown away by all the contemporary architecture in Venice

This is along the boardwalk

 The lobby of The Palihouse West Hollywood!

Staying here was a huge highlight of my trip.

#dreamy!

Interior Design by Heather Ashton

Look at this gorgeous space. Full kitchen! Gorgeous mix of materials rugs, marble, velvet etc etc. Loved.

 Gjelina on Abbot Kinney!

Great food and people watching.

 On Sunset Blvd.

Another highight was visiting my friend fellow Illustrator Betsy Everitt in her beautiful home in Brentwood. Here she is in her garden.

Betsy's House on Canyon Road

#wow

 Fantastic cafe!
Joan's on Third in L.A.
Best grilled cheese sandwich ever

The Getty

Architect Richard Meier

My sketch

Incredible midcentury architecture in Palm Springs #Donald Wexler

New illustration: Winter runner

Based on my beloved brother Shawn.

In my thoughts everyday and dearly missed.

Holiday Open House + Print Sale 2014 photos

Better late than never :-)

 Among the first arrivals : Kelly Chadda + Git Gustavsson

Talented surface designer (+ cupcake maker!)  Elizabeth Olwen.

 Adorable visitors

 Journalist Karen Von Hahn with her new Mitford silkscreen print

 More adorable visitors

 My fabulous assistant Khahn 

Lifesaver Hardworker Great sense o' humour too

 Raymond + Robyn

One cupcake standing!

The scene Sunday at 6pm
#tired!

Thanks to everyone who came to my Open House

Photos here soon.
In meantime ... you can check my instagram.

New cozy winter illustration

Holiday cards at TYPE books and SWIPE books + design

In Toronto my holiday cards are now available at two of my favourite bookstores: TYPE books on Queen West and SWIPE books and design at 401 Richmond.
They're also available in my on line shop. 

New Sketch: Happy fella in Canada Goose coat

This is tonight...

My friend Marjorie Campbell is having her first opening at Alison Milne Gallery tonight.
I met Marjorie many years ago as we were both members of the Cabbagetown craft circle. :-)
She makes beautiful felt sculptures and is a very sweet person. Added bonus! Cocktails from the Martini Club.

Mark your Calendars...

It's that time of the year again:

My Annual Holiday Open House and Sale. 

There'll be lots of Artist's Proofs at greatly reduced prices (ooh ahh)

plus prints, greetings cards, cider and nibblies

and ofcourse a chance for a peek inside my loft!

Please RSVP to 

alanna.cavanagh(at)gmail.com

Maria Bamford

My world improved today. I discovered Maria Bamford.
#smart # funny #brave #comedy #humour #mentalillness #bipolar

Inspiration: Isabella Blow + Fashion Blows show

Last week I went to the fantastic Fashion Blows show at The Room at The Hudson's Bay.

With her very quirky looks and incredible fashion sense I was immediately inspired to do some sketches of her.

 Isabella in fantastic hat by Philip Treacy.

My Sketch.

Loved Loved that wild Mouth "head piece" also by Philip Treacy and her helmet in the video.

 

Another sketch.

Thanksgiving

 Some photos from a very warm and cozy Thanksgiving.

Many hands and plates for a big Turkey dinner at the cottage.

Is there anything better?

 Bliss - reading on the cottage's screened in porch.

 Beautiful fall foliage in Kazubazua, Quebec.

New Surreal Wallpaper pattern

Close up: Ochre + Grey colourway

Full pattern: Ochre + Grey

 

Pink + Grey colourway