DaniDraws.com

Who knew your creative writing class could give you so many art ideas? Next time you sit down to create your next illustration, take a few lessons from those who use a pen more than a paintbrush.

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I just got done giving my portfolio website a major overhaul (you can check it out here: www.danijones.com). Whenever I go through a major design change like this, I’m always thinking about what I can do better and how I can improve upon my previous website design. Much of this pondering comes with a lot of visits to other artist’s sites; I look at what works, what doesn’t, and what kinds of things I would like to do on my own site.

So, the question I would like to ask you is:

Which portfolio websites do you like, and why?

Is there an especially outstanding site that you would like to share with your fellow readers? Perhaps you enjoy how the artist has arranged his portfolio. Or maybe the site has a spectacular design. Maybe the site just has unique features that you haven’t seen anywhere else. Whatever the reason, I want to know what’s catching your eye.

My Personal Favorite

I see a lot of great artist sites out there, but I always seem to go back to the website of LeUyen Pham (www.leuyenpham.com). She is a children’s illustrator and has had many picture books published. I normally don’t like flash sites, but I can put aside my bias for this one because of the fun concept and sheer volume of features and high-quality artwork.

If you have any suggestions…

…please leave the link in the comments section. If there is a particular reason you like the site, be sure to point it out. This post will always be open to additions. Perhaps the next time you sit down to redesign your website, you will be able to look here for some inspiration.

Happy Reading, everyone!

Video: Seven (Quicktime, 3:13, 18.36 MB)

Some things you have to learn the hard way.

Like painting skills that are not taught in the classroom or listed in the typical handbook. It’s not all about mixing colors and priming a canvas. Here are a few lessons that I’ve learned while painting, but are often overlooked and under-appreciated.

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This month’s book recommendation, Wreck This Journal, is less of a book and more of a blank journal/activity book. Creator Keri Smith’s concept is quite unique — each page tells you to do something specific, like “Burn this page”, “Draw with your left hand”, or “Poke holes here.” The book encourages you to deface it in many strange and wonderful ways, sparking your creative process along the way.

So, instead of putting your cash down on a dreadfully expensive, hardbound treasure that you’re afraid to make the slightest mark in, give this sketchbook a spin. Do your best to destroy it — and create something beautiful.

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