Sumo Arabic Brochure

Sumo Arabic Brochure, originally uploaded by jimmysumo.

The lovely folk at Sumo asked me to do some illustrations in connection with their project with an amazing new museum in Qatar.
Jim Richardson sent me through these pics of the brochure they designed with one of my illos on the cover.
It was an interesting job to do, as I had to draw a mixture of Arabic and Western people in the gallery setting (which looks like a giant sand dune, by the way) but at the same time, be respectful of Islamic customs and culture. I hope I got it right!
In the process of researching this job, I came across some fantastic Arabic art websites and blogs, such as Fann 3arabi...and discovered a couple of inspiring Arabic calligraphers too, such as Malik Anas, an Iraqi calligrapher based in Baghdad.

Vintage Inspiration from Amy Cartwright

Several deadlines are pressing down upon me and in true fashion I blithely turn my cheek and get "researching" on the web for lots of lovely inspirational things.
Well, this actually came in via the Grain Edit newsfeed and I urge you to check it out.
stickersandstuff.blogspot.com is illustrator Amy Cartwright's fab blog - LOADS of links and lots of excellent vintage illustration to look at and drool.

Consider it an educational tool, all you young 'uns out there. Thankyou Amy!

Max Velthuijs illustration

Max Velthuijs, originally uploaded by normanhathaway.

double page spread heaven...I have been browsing Flickr again and found this wonderful spread.
Beautiful colour, composition, white space and yet is free and expressive too. It makes me want to do children's books!