Shell Sherree

Venerdi in Venice: Romance

2012-02-10T09:30:00.000+10:00

pigment ink pen & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

While I believe it's lovely to make every day Valentine's Day in simple and unassuming ways {a note with sweet nothings tucked in his pocket ... the outline of a heart magically appearing in the steam on the bathroom mirror ... remembering not to call him 'Hugh'}, I'm happy to have a formal excuse to stroll upon the romantic side of life. When I saw this old photo shoot in Venice by Mario Testino {with styling by Grace Coddington} for Vogue US 2005 not long ago, it was easy to slip into the picture and start dreaming ahead of time ... of Bellinis at Harry's Bar {where perhaps we can arrange something like this, but not indulge in too many of their signature champagne cocktails lest we end up looking like this}. And for dessert, dark chocolate gelato and moonlight lapping on the canals. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Paris et Le Bon Marché

2012-02-03T09:30:00.000+10:00

pigment ink pen & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

To make amends for my lamentable effort on facts and figures in last Friday's post, I have actually done some research this week. {May I offer you some smelling salts?}

Back in 1852 when an enterprising draper's assistant had visions of what was possibly the world's first department store dancing around in his head, I can only begin to imagine what some of his family and friends might have said. Something like, "Have you been sniffing the fabrics again?" or "Lay off the green fairy {la fée verte}, you crazy dude," for starters. But thanks to Aristide Boucicaut and his wife Marguerite, a revolutionary concept was born, offering "fixed prices, lower margins, home delivery, item exchange, mail order, promotional periods and sales, private concerts, a reading area and much more..." An art gallery was opened in 1875 to further cement Le Bon Marché's air of distinction and forward thinking. Louis Auguste Boileau was consulted for the construction of a new home for the store ~ this one ~ in 1867, and when his son Louis Charles Boileau continued the store in the 1870s, he consulted the firm of Gustave Eiffel for parts of its structure. I guess that makes it some kind of second cousin by marriage to La Tour Eiffel. So without further dilly dallying, please try this on for size ~ or perhaps this. Oh, heh, I mean this, and we shall entrez. A thousand thanks to our dear Katie for the beautiful photographic inspiration for today's illustration. Katie, I chose this outfit especially for you. Edgy but feminine ~ I think you'd rock it! And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Factual Friday: Wherefore Art Thou

2012-01-27T19:44:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7.25" x 7.25" [18.5 x 18.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

There's rarely a deep and meaningful reason why I draw a certain subject matter. "Ooh, that's pretty!" is usually enough. And I remember clearly having that thought years ago over this gracious old dame on Ann Street, Brisbane. She provides one of many delightful little heritage flourishes amongst the standard office blocks in the middle of the CBD. We can safely say she was home to the School of Arts at one time, but I know little else of her history. So about all I can offer you for now is, "Ooh, that's pretty!" and procure some appropriate attire. I feel smocks are in order for our visit. And Singapore Slings on the upstairs verandah to counter the colonial humidity. And on that note...

Happy Factual Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Scootering Da Rocco

2012-01-20T15:15:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

When I sit down to illustrate without a specific project, I often have no idea as to what I'm going to draw. At times like that, I'll resist the urge to spin the bottle and instead, will open my tear-sheet ring binders or the inspiration folders on my laptop, skim through my Pinterest boards, and gaze at the overflowing mood board next to my desk {and invariably think to myself that I need a much larger one, then daydream about gilt frames and somehow ending up wondering what Hugh's wearing today ... and not regaining consciousness until the best drawing light is dwindling fast. Damn it.}

Today, my eyes alighted on a photo sent to me some months ago by Pop Culture Nerd and taken when one of her loved ones was in Paris ~ she thought of me when she saw it. Thank you, my sweet! I loved it and filed it away to wait for little lights to flash over it when the time was right ~ which turned out to be today. And for those of you who are smitten with both Paris and Italy, Da Rocco Trattoria in the 7th arrondissement is made for you... a taste of both worlds. {And the reviews look excellent!} The sidecars are waiting and the red wine is breathing discreetly. We can relax elegantly in trousers so it doesn't matter from which angle the paparazzi catch us. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Factual Friday: Treasury of Brisbane

2012-01-13T19:15:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8" x 7.75" [21 x 19.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

I was ever-so-gently reminded recently that it might be quite nice to don my ambassadorial hat again and show you a little of my local slice of heaven. As my week turned out to be shorter than the length of my To Do list, I donned my white cotton gloves {oh, the humidity} and rustled discreetly through my archives {always better to rustle discreetly through such things} and came up with this: a piece of heritage architecture whose facade connects us to a genteel place and time. The subject for today is Brisbane's Treasury Building, now home to the Treasury Casino and Hotel. {I shall not weep for its lost virtue. The council thankfully made it rewardingly irksome to insert said casino into said lodgings and required all manner of retention of heritage colour schemes and trims, skirting and architraves, yin and yang, Sonny and Cher... what was I saying?} If you look at the Casino's website, you'll see that a sizeable bauble of street sculpture has been added since I drew my illustration once upon a time.

Anyhoo, here we are. Gambling for the weekend in glamorous surrounds. Or we could engage ourselves more productively with some fine dining and live music. Better dust off the cleavage and choose from this, this or this {my personal favourite}. Kir Royale, anyone? And on that note...

Happy Factual Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Florist by a Whisker

2012-01-06T14:21:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

Happy New Year! Special delivery for our weekend in Venice. Our little kitty is just applying one last fluff of the flowers before he pulls on a plump red satin hand-plaited and tasselled rope to ring the doorbell. No need to change out of your silk pyjamas. A cat always appreciates the value of such fineries. Thank you to dear Danielle of VenetiaMicio for the beautiful inspiration. We visited nearby another day, but views like this are worth returning to, and it's been a while since Venice graced us with her beguiling beauty. And it's not every day one's flowers are delivered via boat. Or a kitty cat. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Merry Macarons to You

2011-12-23T19:19:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

A valiant effort, though I haven't quite covered the partridge, turtle doves, calling birds and I don't think these little feathered friends would pass for French hens, either. But I have a feeling you'll excuse me for trading five golden rings for this tower of raspberry macarons {if you close your eyes and make a wish, yours will turn into whatever flavour you fancy}. Thank you, dear Virginia of Paris Through My Lens, for the lavish inspiration provided by you and Printemps in Paris. I've decided to call this style Bacchanalian-chinoiserie. Could we be daring enough to wear this while we indulge? And when the last crumb has gone, we can visit animal refuges to make donations and give out cuddles. {To give just by clicking your mouse, no money required, please pop over here. Often.}

Wishing you a Christmas filled with love and laughter with those who make your heart sing and your spirit tap dance. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Paris by Carrousel

2011-12-16T16:58:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

When life throws you curve balls, escape to the nearest carousel, I say. What this one lacks in proximity, it more than compensates for in magic. Please slip over to Genie's Paris and Beyond to view the original breathtaking sight in le Jardin des Tuileries, captured by her beautiful eye in the late afternoon winter light, bulbs twinkling and perfectly described by Genie as a 'blue and white wedding cake of a merry-go-round'. Thank you for the very pretty inspiration, dear Genie ~ bisous! I'm not sure how they hold up to snow, but I've arranged for a fairy floss vendor [aka cotton candy] to provide our refreshments in every pastel colour. And not a plastic bag in sight ~ these ones are spun onto renewable-bamboo sticks or paper cones fashioned from vintage Paris maps edged in silk passementerie, depending on your fancy. {There are also fairy floss martinis, but caution: when combined with enough carousel rides, the result can cause hallucinations.} Let's take her for a spin. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Fashionable Friday: Mise/Pretty Far West Illustrated Gift Guide

2011-12-09T13:30:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration by Shell-Sherree - curation by Mise/Pretty Far West
~ see below for links to individual items ~

Fortified by a magnum of champagne and fruit mince pies, we arrive at the second in our little teensy mini-series of illustrated gift guides, curated by a few of my favourite style bloggers and illustrated by little teensy me. Last Friday, we were in Provence with Vicki Archer of French Essence. Today, we travel par avion Pretty Far West to Ireland, where our guest curator Mise can be found plucking dewy blooms from the garden and nonchalantly arranging them in an endless array of Bonne Maman jars, before working some W.B. Yeats into her needlepoint project, perched on her pink and white toile de jouy Louis chair, warmed by her ivory stove as her sourdough rises in the kitchen. All this before breakfast. If ever there was a reason to visit Ireland {and there are many, to be sure}, visiting their Queen of Fudge, Wit and Domesticity is an excellent one. Many of you will know Mise from our ~~frivolous and fanciful~~ deep and meaningful discussions in the comments, so you'll be keenly aware of her inimitable humour and charm, and her choices for our gift guide reflect that in spades. {Hers is pink, I'm rather sure.}

I asked Mise if she could choose anyone to dress up as Santa and climb down her chimney, who would it be and why. To which she replied, "I'd choose your dear self, as we'd surely have the best of chats by the fire, sipping champagne and munching florentines as we spoke of the nature of whimsy and whether pale blue can overcome all strife. I might not insist on the Santa suit, though, if you would prefer to wear a divine frock." Thank you ~ I would be profoundly honoured, dear Mise! I'll get back to you regarding attire, though I'm leaning towards this Tom Ford number, as I know your chimney would be impeccably clean. And on that note...

Happy Fashionable Friday to you!

Mise/Pretty Far West gift guide sources [left to right, top to bottom]: (1) Brian de Staic Fuchsia Earrings; (2) Vogue Pattern Sixties Dress; (3) Joules Bobble Hat; (4) Labour & Wait Milk Pan; (5) Hotel Chocolat Cabinet; (6) Barbican Pendant Lights; (7) Aspinal Vanity Case; (8) Berry Red Boudoir Chair; (9) Runaway Coast Striped Cushions

Fashionable Friday: Vicki Archer/French Essence Illustrated Gift Guide

2011-12-02T11:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration by Shell-Sherree - curation by Vicki Archer/French Essence
~ see below for links to individual items ~

One of my minor weaknesses leading into the festive season is fruit mince pies. Not a concept I grasped at all when I was a child ~ I pictured a combination of beef mince, gravy and glacé cherries and couldn't possibly imagine what anyone would find fetching about it. But at some point the penny dropped, and now I'm quite partial. Today, I ate my first fruit mince pie to officially cut the ribbon on my Christmas planning ~ which leads us to today's post. I was doodling around last week and illustrated one of the J.Crew guest gift guides for the fun of it ~ and it led me to thinking it would be fun to do a little teensy mini-series of illustrated gift guides, curated by a few of my favourite style bloggers. And with grace and aplomb, they agreed to play along. Hooray!

Given the fondness for French influence around these parts, our first gift guide is contributed by Vicki Archer, author of the sumptuous books My French Life and French Essence {stories of her life} and dreamy blog of the same name. Vicki created her blog 'for those, like me, who are mad for fashion, interiors, and all things French.' I like to think we're related through our Australian DNA {if you're a genetic scientist, I don't want to know...} She is one of the most romantic souls I've 'met' and she has a way of writing her posts to you and you alone ~ even though you know they are there for all to see.

I asked Vicki if she could choose anyone to dress up as Santa, who would it be and why. To which she replied, "As for Santa… I don't want it to be anyone but Santa because if I knew him… he wouldn't be Santa…. 'Those who don't believe don't receive'… That's what I said to my children when they were small and that's what they say to me…." Thank you, dear Vicki! And on that magical note...

Happy Fashionable Friday to you!

French Essence Gift Guide Sources [left to right, top to bottom]: (1) Annick Goutal Gardenia Passion Eau de Parfum; (2) ‘Vogue: The Covers’; (3) Annick Goutal Noel 08 Scented Candle; (4) Parisian Pagoda Parasol; (5) Red Wellington Boots; (6) ‘One Hundred Flowers’ by Harold Feinstein; (7) Casio Men’s XL Red G-Shock Watch; (8) The Sunrise Collection Picnic Basket; (9) Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Hi Tops

Francophile Friday: Américain in Paris

2011-11-25T20:28:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

As night draws its cloak over the warm and fuzzy glow of gratitude and Thanksgiving for our American blogpals, this scene seemed a nice way to tuck the day into bed. {And a thousand thanks to dear Virginia of Paris Through My Lens for her inspiration ~ merci, ma chère!} Our little kitty looks grateful for her fine view of proceedings at Mondrian in Paris. {And she's grateful for the beautiful souls who adopt rescue animals ~ needed now as much as ever. Please read some of their touching stories gathered at Altadena Patch by our friend Altadena Hiker.}

Apparently bar américain indicates that cocktails can be procured within. I'm willing if you are. I've taken the liberty of sourcing appropriate garments for us to wear. The one-shouldered look is so very 'in' this season. But nothing beats a full skirt as a crafty means of gaining more precious real estate if the bar is crowded. Pop into the fitting room and join us when you're ready. I hear Hugh could be recovering here from his latest iced-tea commercial. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Tea for Tuesday: On Wings of Teacups

2011-11-22T14:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] BROWSE PRINTS

Surprise! I'm back already, with a large pot of ginger tea brewing left of stage. Which is entirely different from left of centre. Or so I'm told. I took this inspiration on a flight of fancy by replacing the perfectly functional handles with golden winged ones. Somewhat cumbersome to drink with, but worth it for elevation of the Fetchingness Factor. Please, take your cupcake at your leisure and I'll pour when ready. No tea party would be complete without some music. Ella prefers her namesake's rendition, though the Muppets come a close second. Stop me now. And on that note...

Happy Tea for Tuesday to you!

Fashionable Friday: Vintage Road Trip

2011-11-18T09:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 5.75" x 8.5" [14.5 x 21.5cm]

Bonjour. I have returned. No, this is not a self-portrait, though my hair could easily have grown this long in my blogging absence if I'd allowed it to. Nor have I been driving around Australia with a rakish puppy dog poking his head happily out the window of a charming old petrol-guzzler. But somewhere out there, it made for an attractive photo shoot. {I drew on this for inspiration but its photo credit source has vanished, sorry... probably with a large pastel-coloured picnic basket into an eternal country summer.}

But what's that I hear you saying as your forehead furrows with concern. Où est Francophile Friday? Dove è Venerdi in Venice? Fret not, they will be back! But while contemplating my navel for a protracted period {it's easy, I do yoga}, I thought it might be fun to post more serendipitously ~ more on a whim ~ which feels rather fitting. Often on Fridays, and sometimes not. Perhaps a different day entirely on the odd occasion. Let's take the notion for a spin and see how it goes. All that aside, it's magnificent to see you again. You look even lovelier than before. And on that note...

Happy Fashionable Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Macarons Stripe You Lucky

2011-10-07T16:37:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Firstly, I must apologise. My hand-engraved invitation to Hugh to announce the winners of my giveaway went astray. Never hire a chicken to do a carrier pigeon's job. As a result, there's no opening number ~ no singing and dancing or sailing in on a highwire {the latter is probably for the better, given he's a bit accident-prone when airborne}. But perhaps I can distract you from your disappointment with some macarons and tea. And this picture of Ella wearing the hat we used to draw the names.

Without further ado, here are the winners of my Paris postcard sets, in reverse alphabetical order to keep us on our ballet pointes: Susan Campisi, Pop Culture Nerd, Petrea Burchard, Ms M, mise, the GyPsY, Favourite Vintage Finds, Cafe Pasadena, altadenahiker.

Felicitations and congratulations to those who ~~bribed Ella best~~ had their luckiest vibes on! Please contact me via shellsherree[!at]gmail.com to advise/confirm your address, and I'll have your postcards on their way ~ enjoy!

Thank you so much for your lovely comments and friendship. As the sun sets on my 3rd blogoversary celebrations, I shall be taking a little break to recharge my blogging batteries. But first, please stay a while. We shall graze on this bottomless plate of macarons and drink from these bottomless striped teacups, or those bottomless rose-coloured glasses, filled with your beverage of choice. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you. À bientôt!

PS: As a valued reader of my blog, you have until 15th October to receive 20% off all items in my store. Simply enter the discount coupon code 3RDBLOG during the checkout process.

Francophile Friday: Boulangoversary & Giveaway

2011-09-30T16:44:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Please join me as we celebrate our 3rd Blogoversary together in this Boulangerie. As both words have at least three letters in common, it seems fitting. Besides, I fell in love with this delightful Paris shop front when I saw Genie's beautiful photo at Paris and Beyond a few days ago and couldn't wait to draw on it for inspiration. Merci beaucoup, ma chère Genie.

Thank you all ~ for your friendship and support in so many ways. It's been lovely growing to know you over the time and my life has been immensely enriched by our banter around the globe.

With the warm benevolence that a Chambord champagne cocktail brings, I've decided to hold a Celebratory Giveaway. Nine sets of my Paris postcards are keen to experience overseas travel - Par Avion, of course. {Set contains one each of the three postcards shown below.} The winners will be randomly chosen. We're not talking about an Hermès bag here, so there'll be nothing high tech about the process. Drawing from a hat, crumpling names and seeing which ones Ella sniffs ~ if you've visited before, you know what to expect. Bonus, whether you leave a comment or not: receive 20% off all items in my Etsy store {until 15th October} by entering the discount code 3RDBLOG during the checkout process.

Every commenter on this post receives one chance in the draw {two for regulars}
'Follow' my blog {click the Follow button up top next to the search box}, subscribe via email, Like my Facebook page, Follow my Tweets, and you will receive an extra chance for each of these. You'll find the links over in the right sidebar. Please tell me in your comment which of these extras apply to you
Winners will be drawn next Friday 7th October at 9:00 am {Brisbane, Australia time} and announced in next Friday's post

Meanwhile, your pastries of choice await. I've brought linen napkins, three candles and a calorie-negation device. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Au Levain du Marais 28, Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75011, Paris

Feline Friday: Is Louis Gilty?

2011-09-23T14:30:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Here's another of those 'in my dreams' illustrations. Someday, perhaps when my Ella has tired of climbing up inside {yes, inside} my ageing sofa to snooze on its hammock-like underside, I'll trade my low-maintenance pieces for something of the more delicate Louis family. And perhaps then, my precious black velvet feline will be happy to sleep on it, rather than within it. I think I'll opt for a gilt frame on the chaise. A whitewash finish could be too matchy-matchy with the oversized mirror. Upholstered in a luscious Designers Guild pattern? Or perhaps in a simple white duck, with tie-on loose covers to be changed on a whim {or when they have been winsomely shredded by sweet kitty claws past the point of no return}. Please, relax while I wheel in the strategic drinks cart to facilitate our discussions. And on that note...

Happy Feline Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Red and Pink Reconciliation

2011-09-16T14:30:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Today, let us reconcile the colour ledger with a marriage of pink and red. Where better than in Venice, a city whose profound watery depths are reflected upon by a profusion of all colours of the gelati rainbow. Where singing and dancing men can switch the ice tea running through their veins for the romance of prosecco. And night falls bewitching as we tie on our masks ~ no carnevale required. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Source of beautiful inspiration for today's illustration: Danielle of VenetiaMicio ~ merci, grazie mille, thank you.

Francophile Friday: Paris Pink and Grey-Gray

2011-09-09T16:00:00.000+10:00


ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Uh-oh. Someone's wearing rose coloured glasses again, turning red to pink and risking the ire of a rouge-determinated anti-discrimination board somewhere on the planet. Or blogland, at the very least. The original is beautiful {my abundant thanks to Genie of Paris and Beyond for her lovely inspiration} but when I started dabbling in my paintbox, this lolly colour brushed itself onto the paper and that was that. To tone it down, I feel it calls for the wearing of something modestly exquisite, along the lines of this vintage grey Dior. What do you think? Let us discuss such matters over our café crèmes and macarons. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Friday Fleurish: Spring is Tweet

2011-09-02T11:00:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Today is officially the second of spring here. The scent of jasmine has been teasing the air for a couple of weeks now. And finally, it's official. What better way to express gratitude for the exchange of seasons than with some happy blooms and a cheeky little bird. And a little splish-splash of matching Bombay Sapphire when the temperature catches up with the calendar. And on that note...

Happy Friday Fleurish to you!

Francophile Friday: Café, Thé, Chocolat?

2011-08-26T14:54:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Yesterday, I ~~gadded about~~ performed clinical caffeine trials at successive meetings with girlfriends: 9:00 am, 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. After two half-strength lattes at the first cafe and one half-strength latte at the next, I made the switch to tea for the home run. Silly me ~ if only I'd added some hot chocolate into the mix, I'd have covered all of the bases offered by this charming cafe in Paris. In honour of the fine raspberry and white chocolate scones consumed with cream at the 11:00 am session {and emboldened by a residual caffeine buzz}, I've taken the liberty of giving the cafe a paint job that leans closer to pink than the fire engine-red original over at Virginia's Paris Through My Lens. {Thank you for the beautiful inspiration, dear V!} It seems a very cosy place to nestle in for the weekend {looks like rain here}. My first order will be a hot chocolate equaliser. How about you? Please, pull up a chair. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Ooh La-Ladurée

2011-08-19T20:18:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Ladurée . Lauded by macaron lovers and lamented over by those out of crumbs's reach. And about to open in New York City at 1:00pm on 26th August {according to Laduree's own website as I type} ~ within reach of our chère amie Alexa. Hooray! Her visits might possibly require comfortable running shoes and a water bottle rather than a brief hip-sway in Louboutins. But genuine Ladurée macarons will be on hand in her beloved city, nonetheless. As the NYC store is still having its wig powdered, corset laced and beauty spot positioned, I guess we'll need to rendezvous today at this one on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris. It's a sacrifice, but someone has to do it. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Gelati Palette

2011-08-12T10:00:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Pale turquoise doors with pistachio and raspberry accompaniments. Several colours of the gelati rainbow within a half-dozen paces. The gradual accrual of verdigris and moss thanks to the poetic drip of a languid drainpipe. An overhead cherub with modesty drape so we can retain our G-rating. Kitty cats admiring eternal bronze doorknockers cast in their likeness. {As one would.} Just another colourful day in Venice. Grazie mille, thanks to dear Danielle of VenetiaMicio for the gorgeous inspiration... This door ajar has saved us the trouble of lifting a finger to gently tap-tap-tap the knocker. Could it be a signal our Hugh has returned from his sabbatical? Well, what are we waiting for?! And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Roses Alight in Paris

2011-08-05T22:42:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Soft lamp-lighting is very much at home Chez Shell. Not only could it make an excellent training ground for guide dog puppies, but it's warm and forgiving, and makes everything look better. I've learned never to underestimate the magical powers of illumination. No surprise that this infatuation extends outdoors to the pink streetlights of Venice. Imagine my delight to see these lanterns with rose-coloured glasses in Paris, thanks to Virginia of Paris Through My Lens. {Merci et bises for the gorgeous inspiration yet again, dear V!!}

On a complementary note as we head into the weekend, I'm happy to announce the release of a sweet set of Paris-inspired flat notecards/postcards to the store, in packs of three or nine with elegant cream envelopes ~ for those who still love the handwritten note as I do.

Rose petal macarons and pink champagne all around! And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Meow Jaune

2011-07-29T11:00:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Followers of le Tour de France {and most people with a telly} will know that this year, for the first time, an Australian won the maillot jaune ~ yellow jersey ~ and if a fluffy toy was given for Most Valiant and Humble, Cadel Evans would have won that, too. Afficionados with the gist of tactics and technicalities will wax lyrically about what a beautiful race it was from that perspective. As for me, I just did a big happy dance. Life's simple Chez Shell. In celebration of Cadel's win, I've gone to the archives and dug back a couple of years to find this fine Paris Jaune inspiration thanks to dear Virginia of Paris Through My Lens. My interpretation heads towards the pumpkin side of yellow, but it's the thought that counts. Rather than be predictable, our kitty is not cycling today, but limbering up for her ballet class. Or endeavouring to open the door. Shall we help her out? And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Furry Friends Friday: Pawchance to Dream

2011-07-22T14:55:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, ACQUIRE PRINTS

In the interests of feline and canine equality, please find herewith one puppy dog, enjoying the tail end of the northern hemisphere summer. His humans might be found in a lazy hammock nearby. If you live above the equator, I'm very much starting to look forward to trading seasons with you, and exchanging my hot water bottle and double doona layers for linen sheets and someone to fan me. {Something like this would do. Or to keep it Australian, this. Hugh's on recuperative leave for a few weeks, possibly enjoying his very own hammock...} And on that note...

Happy Furry Friends Friday!

Francophile Friday: Saintly Aristocats

2011-07-15T12:10:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Yesterday was Bastille Day. But thanks to the miracles of time zone travel, you might still be wearing your beret, brushing macaron crumbs from the table and resisting the urge to tap the closest piano accordion player over the head with a baguette. It was thus inevitable that today would irresistibly draw us back to Paris and this view. Merci and abundant thanks to Genie of Paris and Beyond for her gorgeous inspiration. And our three little tricolor kitties are Berlioz, Marie et Toulouse in a walk down memory lane with The Aristocats. Being an artistic pianist with one camouflaged whisker of prima donna, this is one of my all-time favourite Walt Disney movies. Berlioz can be considered blue in cat lingo, so I'm only taking a smidge of watercoloured poetic license. Let's go for a stroll and find some jazz. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Morning Muneghete

2011-07-08T11:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Just another morning of quiet reflection in Venice. The weather's fine. The coffee is brewing on the stovetop. The tiny pussycat is wondering whether the boat is aqua with a pea green cover or pea green with an aqua bottom. The air is rich with the promise of an owl. Thanks to Danielle at VenetiaMicio for her gorgeous inspiration ~ I followed her lead and named the aqua pea green boat in her honour. This seems the perfect excuse for a magnum of champagne and the opinion of a man named Hugh. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday Fleurish: The Macaron Apology

2011-07-01T18:16:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

While we merrily took tea in Paris last weekend, there was an elephant in the room. No, it did not break any of the china. {It's an elephant, not a bull. Stay with me, s'il vous plaît.} But it was there, no matter how quietly it tried to drink its Assam Harmutty Estate Tea while standing in the corner with a lampshade on its head. The cause? There were no macarons invited to our tea party. Today, this travesty is addressed ~ may the festivities resume. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Scooter to a Tea

2011-06-24T20:32:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

This weekend, we're taking a tea leaf from Hugh's book. Our kitty mascot is leading the pastel scootercade through Paris to this beautiful salon de thé. Merci and hugs to sweet Genie of Paris and Beyond for the magnificent inspiration. I usually prefer a half-strength latte when I'm out and about {it's a slippery slope down the caffeine precipice from there}, but I'll happily take a refreshing pot of tea when it involves meeting up with friends somewhere as pretty as this. I'm thinking darjeeling with organic rose petals and pieces of vanilla bean, hand-cut by a Tibetan monk. If you're after something of a more medicinal nature, you might procure a glass of red at the same establishment. The choice is yours. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Shutters & Flowers

2011-06-17T16:49:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Last Friday, we soaked up the atmosphere of flowers and shutters in Paris, then made ourselves at home for the weekend. And the weekend became rather extended. I'm still trying to retrieve lampshades from the heads of some of our guests {not mentioning names ~ sometimes discretion really is the better part of valor}. To expedite our departure, it seemed prudent to simply exchange one royal flush of flowers and shutters for another... but with a change of city to keep us on our toes. Thank you to dear Catherine Hédouin via sweet Danielle's VenetiaMicio for the beautiful Venice inspiration. I'll continue to work on the lampshade removal while you open those shutters more widely and embrace the canal view. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Flowers & Shutters

2011-06-10T14:06:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

On a day when one has gone everywhere in Paris, as Virginia felt this particular day {thank you as always, dear V!}, a relaxed lunch with a view like this is in order. And your chances of scoring such a view in Paris would be pretty high. Shutters, flowering pot plants ~ perhaps even the occasional adventurous kitty cat ~ these are commonplace but never common. I shall consult my Filofax to see whose turn it is to charm the inhabitants into a weekend stay for us. No, wait. I see I already have some volunteers who are eminently qualified for the job. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

PS: You might recall that some of my illustrations are available as customised stationery at Nôte Couture. To my delight, I was also commissioned to create a custom illustration for Nôte Couture's blog banner. {Thanks, dear Julie!} It's over HERE if you'd like to take a peep.

Francophile Friday: Shoes Afoot

2011-06-03T13:50:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

In winter, I don't think a glass slipper would cut it for me. But spring, summer ~ those are indubitably glass slipper seasons. I wonder if some part of our collective shoe obsession is deeply seated in Cinderella. {We can call it Cendrillon or La Petite Pantoufle de Verre for an extra dusting of magic.} The speed of my circulation emulates that of the tortoise, not the hare, so winter finds my feet more closely aligned with another charming tail, Puss in Boots. Whatever your story, the quest to be beautifully shod must be even more enchanted in Paris, and the atelier of this Japanese artisan, Tamano. Merci, thank you to dear Virginia of Paris Through My Lens for the lovely photo inspiration. I'll rustle up some gowns and bubbly and meet you all outside. If you arrive to find a pumpkin and some mice, you'll know the party has already moved upstairs. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Flock to Pink Lamplights

2011-05-27T12:40:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

I've read it's flattering to our complexions to use pink lampshade linings and lightbulbs. These birds silhouetted against the skyline in Venice have the right idea. Grazie mille to Catherine Hédouin and Danielle for the broodingly-beautiful photo inspiration posted at Venetia Micio. {If you can't get enough of these Venice lamps, you'll find more of Catherine's lovely photos here.} It looks like rain, but I'm happy to linger a while if you are. We might learn a thing or two. I hear these birds know how to pastry. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: J'adore a Good Door

2011-05-20T15:58:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Today, I make amends. I've been neglecting a fundamental object of the affection of many. Doors. By their very function and existence, they carry an element of mystery. Intrigue. Some might accuse them of being temptresses. {But now matter how tempting, No means No in any language ~ even that of doors.} They wear their age well. You don't see them anguishing over whether they need a new paint job. All the better to express a sense of character ~ a measure of the years of experience they've acquired. The patchier the paint, the more distinguished the epaulettes. Some are unquestionably rugged and masculine. Strong silent types. Others lean to the coquettish, feminine side ~ such as these. Either way, they invite us to dream. Don't worry, as soon as we're all assembled, we'll carry the kitty cat inside with us, wherever that may lead. I'm thinking there will be chandeliers, violet-scented linen sheets and macarons. Lots of macarons. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

PS: Source of inspiration for today's illustration is here, but the image is not credited, sorry. If anyone knows, please tell me and I'll acknowledge accordingly.

Francophile Friday: Amour at Bois Violette

2011-05-14T08:43:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Every day is a beautiful day for flowers. Giving, receiving, plucking, inhaling, or being smitten from afar. I wonder who will need smelling salts first after passing out from the heady sights and scents at Bois Violette in Paris. The inspiration for today's illustration comes thanks to this gorgeous scene by Genie at Paris and Beyond {merci, chère Genie ~ you are most kind!} Coincidentally, our little pampered pooch from last Friday was officially named Violette by Cali, one of our regulars here, so I took it as a sign for today's subject matter. It seems we can find Amour to go with our flowers while we're there. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday Fleurish to you!

PS: Thank you, sweet Danielle of drifty and romantic VenetiaMicio for passing on the Kreativ Blogger award. Your blog is poetic and I am honoured to receive this award from you.

Furry Friends Friday: The Puppy Wings It

2011-05-06T11:13:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

While those geographically inclined towards the Northern Hemisphere are jauntily stowing away throw rugs in cedar chests and exchanging velvet cushions for spring floral linens, I'm layering thermals and cranking up the eco-heater {the greenest nod I can give without becoming hypothermic}. This puppy dog knows where to be on a cool autumn night heading into winter. And he's happy to share. There's room for more than one wagging tail in this suede wing chair. And on that note...

Happy Furry Friends Friday to you!

PS: Next time you want to write home about something, perhaps you'd like to exercise your penmanship on some gorgeous personalised stationery decorated with a Shell Sherree illustration? I'm honoured to join the selection of talented artists contributing designs to Nôte Couture, based right here in Australia. There's a lovely array of papergoods, including recipe cards & innovative mouse mat notepads, customised with the design of your choice. At the time of posting, you'll see my KittyKins in Paris illo featured in the New Designs at the top of the home page. Life's a Beach is also there, with more coming soon. Happy handwriting...

Francophile Friday: Do You Take This Macaron...

2011-04-29T18:18:00.004+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Once in a while, it's nice to have a fairytale. Anything uplifting and cheering for the spirit is welcome, even more so this year than others in recent recollection. William and Kate are a beautiful couple and I wish them every happiness and more. I have to confess, I'll be watching the Royal Wedding on delay due to a previous engagement. {No, not that kind of engagement.} But I'm looking forward to being assailed by all kinds of eye candy, not the least: the wedding cake. Is there any chance a tower of macarons was on their short list? It's kind of fun to imagine so. Merci, dear Virginia for today's inspiration. Somehow, I suspect it would be the celebratory pastry extravaganza of choice for many of those pressing your noses up against this Paris shop window today. So please, don't forget to take your bonbonniere before you leave. There's a flavour to suit everyone. And on that note...

Happy Royal Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Hightail the Fluffy Tail

2011-04-22T16:51:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

It isn't easy keeping one's fluffy tail high and dry when visiting Venice. This well-travelled little Easter Bunny has excelled. The welcoming committee is in the apartment upstairs, plumping up pillows, scrubbing the finest of carrots and washing freshly plucked leaves. {Grazie mille to dear Danielle of VenetiaMicio for the beautiful photo inspiration.} I've just finished whipping up some dark chocolate truffles for our turndown service. {Mind the cocoa dust on your linen pillowcase.} Your vaporetto driver is tapping his foot impatiently... please mind your step and keep your own tail high and dry as you make your way through the canals to our weekend destination. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice and a safe and peaceful Easter to you!

Francophile Friday: Cushy Kitties, Louis Style

2011-04-15T18:44:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ACQUIRE PRINTS

Our next council kerbside pickup is only a couple of months away ~ so I'm honing my extrasensory perception and having the sparkplugs changed on my Louis Radar. If anything resembling this chaise and side table is lurking by the side of the road in a 15 km radius, it will be mine. These pampered Parisian kittens, on the other hand, have already landed on their paws and secured some gilty pleasures of their very own. Shall we name them? I'll start pouring the champagne fountain while you're thinking aloud. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Vicki's Boulangerie

2011-04-08T19:57:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ORDER PRINT

Bonjour. I'm so glad to see you again. Yes, really see you again, rather than through a foggy haze, courtesy of being a 'visually vague person,' as labelled affectionately by my specialist, Dr Julie. {A few 'tsk, tsk, tsks' were also involved.} Thank you for your kind and caring comments and emails to check in on me. I've missed you all.

Now that I've packed away the eye mask, let's embark on our long overdue trip to the south of France thanks to Vicki Archer of French Essence, one of the most exquisite places in Blogland. Odds are, you already know Vicki ~ but if not, you'll be glad to. Vicki is a gracious Australian writer who lives between London and St Rémy de Provence; she lives what many would consider to be a charmed life, but always wears her humanity and heart on her sleeve. Vicki generously agreed to my request to use her Boulangerie photo as inspiration for today's post. Thank you, dear Vicki. You're a honey. We'll be glad to pull up a wicker chair here and pat the kitty. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Restful Paws...

2011-03-04T17:31:00.000+10:00

I'm ever so sorry, but I've a wee dram of eye strain and need to take a little sojourn from blogging. I'll be back when I can, and in the meantime, let's take a leaf from kitty's book and relax in your daydream of choice. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday or Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Vintage Paris

2011-02-25T17:46:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ]

One of the many unfortunate side-effects of our January floods is the impact on the supply of vintage treasures at my local thrift shops. This is in no small part due to several of them going underwater, including my favourite, the RSPCA Thrift Shop at Sherwood. {No, they do not sell men in tights. The Sherwood Forest store might.} I'm fond of fossicking around in there, so I'm champing at the bit for their re-opening. As excellent as they are, however, I've yet to happen upon any vintage items like the ones illustrated poking out from under a pile of $2 stonewash jeans. One suspects one is a tad more likely to see them languishing around with a mild air of ennui and a waft of cigar smoke in the Place des Pyramides in Paris. Merci to dear Eric of Paris Daily Photo for the inspiration. They actually look like fine getaway vehicles. Meep, meep. Ladies, gentlemen ~ start your engines. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

PS: I'm offering Original Meep Miniatures at a special rate to my dear blog readers for the next couple of weeks {while stocks last}: $39AUD for a pair {unframed}, plus $3 standard postage worldwide. There's no simple way to handle it in my Etsy store, so please just pop me an email at shellsherree[!at]gmail.com if interested and we'll arrange delivery details and secure credit card payment. My Etsy store doesn't show all Meeps available, so if your fave isn't there, please ask in case I still have it.

Fanciful Friday: Lime & Firth, Please

2011-02-18T16:19:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5 x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

I can hear you whimpering that we aren't heading for Paris or Venice today {oh yes, I can}, but this weekend I'm taking us somewhere different. That's what Fanciful Friday is all about. And pip, pip, cheerio ~ a change is as good as a holiday, eh what? We're heading across land and sea via motorcraft, watercraft and aerocraft in all manner of eccentric shapes and sizes ~ and before you can ask, "Are we there yet?" for the ninety-ninth time, we'll arrive at Lime Wood in Hampshire, England.

Vogue Living {Australia} featured this bucolic getaway {Sep-Oct 2010 edition} and described it thus and verily: "A restrained dose of whimsy and wildflower hues preserve the Regency aesthetic of an English country manor hotel without the formal stuffiness of its counterparts." Wherever Regency aesthetic resides, Colin Firth will be bathing in a lake nearby. Done. I've artfully contrived a gilt-framed Do Not Disturb sign on the doors leading to the drawing room. There will be no dart throwing, as the walls are lined with lavender raw silk. But until the company arrives, we can bide our time with a glass of sherry and look intelligent as we ponder what in the heck the {no-doubt-hellishly-expensive} abstract on the wall is all about. And on that note...

Happy Fanciful Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Bicyclette and regnaluoB

2011-02-11T20:42:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

When I saw Virginia's photo inspiration for today's post {merci comme toujours, V!}, it took me a moment to get my bearings. If I'd been cycling at the time, I would have wobbled and fallen off in my discombobulation, leaving my 'chic' lying crestfallen and undignified on the cobblestones. Here's hoping someone kind would be on hand to pick me up and straighten my beret.

This scene was one of Virginia's Paris Rouge series, but I'm feeling in more of a raspberry mood ~ et voilà. Our picnic awaits ~ as soon as we procure some crusty baguettes to accompany our fromage et vin. After you. No, not that way ~ that way. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday Fleurish: Flower Power

2011-02-04T19:27:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] ORDER PRINT

My possums aren't going to be happy with me. Cyclone Yasi obliterated most of Australia's banana crops. {In a double whammy, those poor farmers also lost their crops in Cyclone Larry in 2006 and have to start again, again.} This will take the humble banana into luxury goods territory. I could feed my adopted wildlife a silk pillowcaseful of organically~grown Bulgarian rose petals harvested by the light of the silvery moon by Colin Firth and pay less. So until my possums figure out how to contribute to the household budget, I see tinned two-fruits on their horizon. Indefinitely.*

It's been a troubled week in many places around the world. And while offering up flowers seems hopelessly inadequate, perhaps these pretty blooms in a Paris flower shop can go some way towards helping to count our blessings. To triple your smile value, pop over and gaze at the source of inspiration of my illustration today. Bisous and thanks to dear Virginia of Paris Through My Lens. Let's loiter and inhale. Exhale. Inhale... And on that note ~

Happy Francophile Friday Fleurish to you.

* Seriously, I will invest in local bananas as they become available again. A small price to pay to support these farmers as they get back on their feet again. My heart goes out to all those affected by Cyclone Yasi. The RSPCA in Townsville was damaged, only weeks after the Fairfield refuge here in Brisbane was badly flooded. And they will have much to do saving companion animals and wildlife in the wake of Yasi. You can donate to the RSPCA here. Thank you.

Venerdi in Venice: In the Pink

2011-01-28T11:00:00.043+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm] ORDER PRINTS HERE

It's been a while since our last visit to Venice. And when I started gazing at my inspiration folders, the sight of all that water was too much too soon, given the recent floods. So I compromised and chose this lovely scene with just a hint of water lapping at the bottom of it. {Merci, Danielle, for the beautiful inspiration!} The crumbling pink facade has my mind drifting somewhat nostalgically to sweetheart lollies. I believe someone tall, dark and handsome {possibly named Hugh ~ such a nice name} is upstairs waiting for us, with a 2 feet tall glass apothecary jar full of them. Who dibbs Kiss Me? And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Thank you also to Danielle for giving me this Sunshine Award. I'm chuffed! As you give me so much sunshine with your comments and/or blogs, I'd like to bestow it on all of you. If you haven't yet visited the sites of your fellow commenters here, now would be a lovely time to drop in on them. Talent, inspiration and wit in leaps and bounds. You're all grand.

Francophile Friday: Meet You at Le Mouffetard

2011-01-21T21:57:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

What's that? It's the weekend already? As the sun loiters around the horizon this Friday afternoon, these empty chairs are singing a siren song. Let's rest our tootsies, clink glasses and graze on a slice of life at this little cafe overlooking rue Mouffetard in Paris. {Thanks and bisous for the inspiration, chère Virginia!} These are tables for two, but here in our fairytale, this seating arrangement will stretch to accommodate us all, like black elasticised pants at a smorgasbord ~ cough ~ I mean, like an Yves Saint Laurent caftan at a buffet. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

PS: In the recent Brisbane floods, the RSPCA animal shelter at Fairfield went under & was severely damaged. They are exempt from disaster relief offered to charities assisting human needs. Please click here to donate towards their vitally important rebuilding process. And for donations to help human kind, please click here. Thank you for any help you can give ~ every dollar is gratefully appreciated!

Feathered Friday: 29 Chooks and the Kindness of Strangers

2011-01-14T20:36:00.002+10:00

I can't thank you enough for your caring thoughts and concern for all of those in our region. In the face of such devastation here, not just in Brisbane but in the whole of south-east Queensland, there are so many tales of miracles and grace. And spirit that will never lie down. We're seeing the typical Aussie sense of humour, perhaps slightly dented but far from gone, in such wry touches as a page taped to a light pole in the nearby town of Ipswich, with the felt-penned message, "LOST: 3 Goldfish. Last seen Tuesday afternoon."

Heavy hearts can do with some light. So today I wanted to share with you one of the flood stories with a happy ending ~ the story of some beloved chooks whose lives in no small part depended on the kindness of strangers.

My mum's hubby's farm ~ his life's work ~ went under on Wednesday morning. And as the floodwaters rapidly swallowed up hydroponic and working sheds and rose towards their henhouse, 29 chooks {mostly redheads with remarkably fluffy bottoms} were growing increasingly agitated. Nowhere near as agitated as their "mum and dad". All hands were on deck as netting was fashioned around the open sides of a stable on higher ground to arrange emergency lodgings, hastily secured with old bricks and fallen branches. We discovered some way into proceedings that a nice young man helping out was not an in-law whose name we'd embarrassingly forgotten, but a stranger who lived up the road and around the corner who'd heard of the rising waters and came down to lend a hand.   {Needless to say, Ken been fast-tracked onto the Christmas Card list.}

But the scary question in the midst of all this was HOW to transport a large number of hens with very ruffled feathers when they were virtually trapped by a lake of floodwater. Behold ~ more kind strangers with a dinghy proved you don't need a white horse and armour to save maidens in peril. With several boat trips and a motley collection of taped up cardboard boxes and makeshift crates, twenty-nine clucky young ladies were safely stowed and ferried to their sanctuary. After inspecting each other and doing a head count, arrangements were deemed to be acceptable, and there was much relief and happy dancing {by the humans. The chooks were too busy squabbling over meat scraps.} Thirty-six hours and a disturbing volume of chicken poo later, complaints to the management over lack of prime real estate on the tractor and sub-standard nesting boxes were coming thick and fast. But thankfully by then, the floodwaters subsided, the henhouse was cleaned down, and the ladies are happily nesting back in Fowl Manor. They may never understand how much they depended on the kindness of strangers. But for this kindness, their mum and dad are eternally grateful. And on that note ...

Happy Fine Feathered Friday to you!

Update 17th January: The RSPCA refuge at Fairfield went under water, by over 2 metres in places, and has been severely damaged. Thankfully, all animals were safely evacuated in time.   But the shelter has had to completely cease operations until clean-up and recovery can be completed.   They are exempt from disaster relief offered to other charities assisting human needs. Please click here to donate towards their vitally important rebuilding process. Thank you.

If you would like to donate to the Flood Appeal for human kind, you can do so here. Thank you, and bless you.

Fanciful Friday: It's Just Not Cricket

2011-01-07T18:32:00.007+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

Hello! It's lovely to be back. So wonderful to see you again. Please, pull up a Louis chair ... {I've been re-decorating...}

I used to think cricket was an odd curiosity involving the curation of grass as a spectator sport. And occasionally, typically when one left the room to put on the kettle, a player would cheekily hit a ball or catch a ball as a mild distraction from the grass-watching task at hand. But in recent years, I've grown to love this gentlemanly pursuit and its familiar noise on the telly as I potter around at home. It sounds of summer to me. And with the rotten weather we've had for the past couple of months, anything reminiscent of summer is a good thing.

But woe is me, our fine Aussie cricket team has dropped off the perch lately. And the Pommie cricket team resoundly completed its Ashes series win today, creating an irksome tea stain on Australia's proud sporting history. I have to admit, the English side did a beyond-sterling job, and if not for some half-baked semblance of a detox over the holidays, I would drink a Long Island Iced Tea in its honour. {Granted, this rocket fuel rarely contains tea and bears no relationship to Australia or England, but it's a compelling amnesiac for embarrassing international incidents.}

Knowing the cricket selectors will make some changes, I've come up with my own Dream Team {shown here at the Sydney Cricket Ground, formerly-known-as-Illustrious}. And the simple solution I propose is that we double the number of players, then play ourselves. A guaranteed win every time. {My talents really are wasted...tell me about it.} My nominated team could make it a little harder to maintain the condition of the grass, but what is life without challenges. And on that note...

Happy Fanciful Friday to you!

PS: Thank you for your many concerned emails and comments. I'm relieved to say that {touch wood!} my immediate family and I are somewhat soggy, but gratefully unaffected by the massive flooding in our state, greater than the areas of France & Germany combined. If you would like to make a donation to help those poor folks in these disaster areas, you can do so here. Merci, grazie, thank you.

Francophile Friday: Festive Frivolity

2010-12-17T21:01:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, cropped from 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm]

'Tis time to scoot around for the festive season. We're all decked out and ready to go. The party-size tower of violet macarons is safely strapped on board. Hugh flew in especially to rig the engineering and head the scootercade. I hope the dear man has sufficiently recovered from the "Oprah Incident". We wouldn't want to lose our precious cargo, would we.

We're wearing our fluffiest party frocks. Our furry friends have been bathed in eau de violette then gently blow-dried with a diffuser attachment to tickle kitty and retain puppy's curls. First stop: the Louboutin store and headquarters on rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau in Paris to pick up some dancing shoes. {Thanks to dear Katie for the photo inspiration!} Next stop: I'm open to suggestions. And after we've licked the last crumbs of macaron from our fingers, kicked off our Louboutins and waved au revoir to Hugh at Charles de Gaulle, I'm taking a weensy blog holiday while I relax and unwind. {Rumours of a spa detox will be grossly exaggerated...}

Thank you for another year of fun and friendship, both here and chez vous. See you in the New Year. Wishing our furry friends warm beds, full tummies and loving homes ~ and the same to you. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday and Festive Frivolities to you!

Francophile Friday: SubLime

2010-12-10T18:47:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5 x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

This summery façade in Paris was captured on camera by our Katie a few months ago. {Thank you for the inspiration, Katie!} It caught my eye again this afternoon. We've finally had a couple of fine, steamy days here and this scene looks very much at home. It turned my thoughts to a refreshing Pine-Lime Splice. Lamentably, I have none in the freezer, but fret not. In the absence of this iconic Australian ice-block, I found that Chambord liqueur on the rocks is not only complementary to lime on the colour wheel, but an appropriate accompaniment to writing a Francophile Friday post. And apparently it's all-natural, ergo good for us {while providing the invaluable opportunity to say ergo}. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Friday Fleurish: A Fancy of Feline

2010-12-03T18:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] Order print here

Blue skies smack me over the head with happy vibes and are always welcome at my place. But at least the grey cloud cover that doggedly pursued November into December is keeping summer's heat and humidity at bay, thus saving a girl from many bad fur days. Whether it's a weekend of raindrops on roses or whiskers on kittens {such as these luscious ones on Virginia's grandkitty}, here's wishing you more than a few of your favourite things. And on that note...

Happy Friday Fleurish to you!

Francophile Friday: Furry Friends in Paris

2010-11-26T20:01:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

It's grand. Mighty grand, to sashay into the weekend knowing our pooch pal Pepe in Pasadena has been adopted ~ with a huge pat on the back to his publicist and benefactor, Altadena Hiker. And in time for Thanksgiving. I hope his tummy is pleasantly plump with the finest of leftovers. {In celebration of animal rescue in general, Altadena Hiker has gathered a bunch of animal-lovers to tell their heart-warming tales over here.}

Here's to Pepe's happy new beginning, and to all creatures great and small in need of care ~ and the kind-hearted souls who do all they can to provide it. You are magnificent.

We took Pepe to Venice last weekend, so we've taken a first class carriage to Paris for his send-off. Thanks to dear Virginia for the photo inspiration. I hope the gentleman who owns this apartment doesn't mind us moving in for a couple of days. And re-colouring his white roses pink, to match our champagne. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: Ponte di Pepe Peep

2010-11-19T16:43:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

[Update 24th November: Hooray ~ Pepe has been adopted!!! Our beautiful Altadena Hiker has just sent through the wonderful news. Thank you for sending happy thoughts to Pepe, and for the many comments, clicks, links, and posts by the warm hearted bloggers involved. Here's to your new loving home, little Pepe.]

Pepe's still cooling his paws at the Pasadena Humane Society {I know, it's unthinkable} and there are concerns he's depressed, so we're busting him out for the weekend. He's going for a W-A-L-K-I-E-S in Venice with his publicist, Altadena Hiker {rumour has it her heart weighs more than Phar Lap's}. As for us, we're meeting up with them after we secure Pepe some juicy morsels from the butcher. {And some liquid refreshments to revive our own crestfallen spirits.} Thanks to Katie's excellent suggestion in the comments last week and in honour of Pepe, we shall hereby name this weensy illustration a Peep.

If you can spare a moment to click and view Karin's latest {and possibly last} appeal for Pepe, or even better, leave a comment, that will help keep him in the news for a wee bit longer. Please, let's continue to spread the word and send our warm fuzzy vibes, and surely Pepe will captivate the soul of someone who can give him a loving home. Soon. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you, and big hugs to Pepe!

Grazie mille to dear Pierre at Venice Daily Photo for the magnificent photo inspiration.

Francophile Friday: Paris Purple & Pasadena Pepe

2010-11-12T16:52:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration 22.5 x 18cm Inspiration: Virginia Jones {bisous & thanks}

When I was strolling through my inspiration folders earlier this week, Virginia's photo of this charming abode in a Paris lane said, "Pick me! Pick me!" {And you think you're crazy.} Through a stroke of serendipity, the gorgeous purple gives me an alliterative excuse to feature a dear little puppy dog who's well overdue for a purple patch. Pepe in Pasadena needs a home. {I'd already drawn kitty before hearing about Pepe, otherwise he'd be enjoying a fairytale walk with us today.} He's in the care of kind souls at the Pasadena Humane Society but it's high time he had digs of his own to, err, dig around in.

Altadena Hiker is well known to {and loved by} regulars here, and being a wordsmith beyond measure, has given Pepe a write-up that must surely find him an adoring family, even if his magnificent smile somehow isn't enough to woo them. Please, if you can give Pepe a moment of your time and leave a comment on Karin's post, it will help keep Pepe visible and increase his chances of adoption. And if you can give Pepe a caring home ~ he'll love you forever. {So will I.} And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: All Weather Campo

2010-11-05T17:08:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

I know several people ~ unrelated to each other ~ who coincidentally planned on going camping this weekend. {Until the heavens opened yet again, causing a quandary of risk assessment increasing in direct proportion to the quagmiry likelihood.}

My idea of camping is setting up house in a campo in Venice. How about this one? {Thanks to Danielle of VenetiaMicio for the beautiful inspiration!} Several levels of luxury, black kitty cat included at no extra charge. If we encounter any flooding and need to evacuate, we can easily shimmy down from the windows on 600 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, directly into our on-call gondola, and have Hugh whisk us away to safety. Perhaps I'm being fussy, but that's my idea of roughing it. {1000 thread count would be so much softer.} And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Aqua with Pink by a Whisker

2010-10-29T15:04:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5 x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

Aqua with pink is one of my favourite combinations. Pink with aqua is another. No wonder I was so taken with Virginia's photo taken in Bray sur Seine, not too far from Paris. {Thanks yet again, dear V!} The kitty was a bonus, though I'd have included one regardless, so I took liberty with a spot of hairbrushing and gave her longer whiskers.

Before we amble into the French countryside for the weekend, just a little heads-up that I'll only be posting on Fridays again for the next little while, so I'll be very much looking forward to catching up with you all this time next week for another adventure! And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

A Bark of Baguettes

2010-10-26T11:00:00.006+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

You haven't gone barking mad. It's not already Francophile Friday. While this looks like a sweet and typical French scene, I thought I'd try some trick illustrography. This dear little fellow is the furry offspring of a one of Virginia's friends, and does not live in France at all. But he’d look very much at home there, n'est ce pas?

Venerdi in Venice: Gondola of Mystery

2010-10-22T11:00:00.019+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm], private commission

I've been blessed to create some lovely commissions as mementos of holidays and special occasions, and today, I thought I'd show you another one. This delightful client has engaged me more than once, and after some Paris illustrations several months ago, we recently travelled over to Venice to even up the balance.

Now, you know I'm the soul of discretion, so I've protected the anonymity of my subjects by placing large sunhats on their heads. Yes, that's the kind of privacy you can rely on when engaging me. You don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to figure out that the gondolier was not my client and has to make do with his traditional straw number. {And seems singularly unimpressed.} As you can see, this unhappy chappy is not Hugh, who was entertaining us at the time if you can recall. Smiles all around. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Raise the Blue Bar

2010-10-19T14:21:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

Towards the end of last week, I saw two cats, a puppy dog and a scrub turkey deeply engrossed in our timber fence. After a week of deluge, I suspect they were sizing up the palings with regards to their Ark potential. They could well be mistaking their carpentering aspirations with their abilities {the bar has been set rather high, after all}, so I was relieved to awaken last Saturday to skies the colour of this French sign. They might hold out for a few more days until the rain starts again {touch wood}. After that, if any of my meagre home handywoman supplies go missing, I know where I'm looking first.

Francophile Friday: Seeing Red in Paris

2010-10-15T11:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5 x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

While red is not generally a colour to which I'm drawn, that doesn't mean I'm not drawn to drawing it when the whim takes me. And today, the whim took me. I had to look twice when I realised Virginia's gorgeous photo that inspired this was posted over a year ago. Sacrebleu! A gentle reminder of the value of seizing the day and loving each moment. {Thank you, chère Virginia, comme toujours.} Let's sally forth into the weekend energised by the passion and intensity of such joyful extroversion. Come, let us seek macarons in all shades of red. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Meep: The Tulip Van Goes

2010-10-12T13:10:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

This tulip-laden truck is not a figment of my imagination. Aside from the weensy driver. While the council now requires us to obtain licenses for our cats, they aren't yet of the vehicular variety. {Patience, my pretties... all in due course...} But back to the truck. The real, life-size one belongs to Joost Bakker of Urban Crop, described by Vogue Living {Australia Sep/Oct 2010 issue, whose cover I'm in love with but that's another story} as "the Johnny Appleseed of Melbourne's sustainability movement". If you live in Melbourne, this truck could be stopping at a convenient location near you. These bunches of flowers {herbs coming soon} have their root systems intact and their own little supply of special soil ~ so they still have life in them. And surely that's a good thing. Urban Crop tells the story in a rather lovely way if you'd like to read more. I'll leave you to it while I go and warm up the engine. It's time for a certain someone's driving lesson...

Francophile Friday: Rainy Day Reflections

2010-10-08T11:00:00.004+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

It’s good weather for ducks here today. I’m not sure if that applies to Paris as well, but a weekend of quiet reflection sounds nice, especially near the Galeries Lafayette Maison {and perhaps the rear entrance of this fine establishment?} Thanks to dear Eric of Paris Daily Photo for the inspiration for today’s illustration.   But before we all don some fashionable gumboots or galoshes or wellingtons and go splashing around in puddles, perhaps you’d like to know which lucky duckies won prizes in my second blogoversary giveaway? I know, the suspense has been crazy, and you’ve done well to contain yourselves for this long.

The first name randomly drawn, and winner of this weensy Meep Miniature, is VenetiaMicio! Second and third names drawn out were Yvonne and PopCultureNerd, who will both receive the Shell Sherree illustration of their choice as a notecard mini-print. {I’ll email you all shortly to make the arrangements.} Congratulations to the winners, and thanks so very much to all of you once again for your kind and generous well wishes.   And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!   Quack, quack.

Black Forest Without the Calories

2010-10-05T11:00:00.007+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5 x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

Ok, the weekend in Venice grew a little out of control. Last time I checked the apartment, Hiker and Margaret were having a Campari-fuelled debate over which Goddess would have best suited S. Fott Kitzgerald. Meanwhile, Hugh capsized our gondola several times due to his seeming inability to control his dancing feet once Mise lured him into trying some prosecco by telling him it was sparkling iced tea. Not to mention what happened when he caught a fish for Micio and Meepsie to share. On top of all that, we ate our body weight in risotto and chocolate-fountain-dipped Campari macarons that Katie magically managed to procure for us. And I wouldn't trade a moment!

Nonetheless, I felt it would be beneficial for us to take some exercise while skipping the calories today. Here's a charming little chalet that we found while powerwalking in and around the Black Forest and firmly averting our collective gaze any time we passed a Black Forest Cake Shop. {I have no idea where exactly, but thanks so much to Papirazzi for the inspiration!} By Friday, we should be in shape again for whatever treats the coming weekend holds...

Psst: You only have until noon Brisbane time Thursday 7th October to enter the giveaway draw to celebrate my 2nd blogoversary. Just pop over here to enter...

Venerdi in Venice: Miaou Micio

2010-10-01T19:45:00.013+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm]

Lately, I've been seeing a lot of our Hugh in a TV commercial. And while I'm thoroughly enjoying the viewing pleasure, between you and me, I think he has too much time on his hands. Far better that we keep him fully occupied, steering our gondola tea party around Venice and scattering us with rose petals. So our mission this weekend, should you choose to accept it, is to ensure that drinking iced tea is far from his mind. Unless it's in our company, of course. Micio is amused by our antics just out of sight in the canal below. Thanks to dear Danielle of VenetiaMicio for graciously allowing me to use her gorgeous photos for inspiration. If you haven't ventured over to her place yet, I whole-heartedly recommend it. It's a wonderful opportunity to exercise your French language muscles as well if you're so inclined. The best of both worlds. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Psst: You only have until noon Brisbane time Thursday 7th October to enter the giveaway draw to celebrate my 2nd blogoversary. Just pop over here to enter...

It's a Draw! And It's a Draw!

2010-09-28T13:20:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5 x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

It might surprise you that I follow the Australian Football League {AFL} ardently {and ardently follow none of the others ~ life’s about balance, after all}. Whether my team makes it to the Grand Final or not {this year, it was Not}, I love the festivities and wouldn’t dream of missing the telecast. Frankly, I felt last Saturday’s pre-match Grand Final celebrations were of the Less is More philosophy ~ prudent for a job interview, but I prefer some judicious excess with my Grand Final countdown. Nonetheless, the match itself more than compensated by turning into a nail-biting thriller and ending in an exhausting draw. And in honour of tradition, rather than having extra time or a Golden Point, everyone comes back this Saturday to do it all again. For several days, I was cross about it, petulantly demanding rule changes of my TV while stomping my foot childishly. Now, I’m starting to see some benefits. Another Grand Final. Double the fun {though half again of the pre-match entertainment}. I just hope it’s another close match so that kitty and I can be on the edge of our seat.

But on to bigger celebrations: tomorrow is my 2nd blogoversary. Hooray! I still pinch myself over the friendships I’ve made with dear blogpals. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your laughter, loyalty and kindness.

{Update 7th October: Entries are now closed, thank you.} Being a birthday of sorts, there are gifts and we'll have a draw of our very own. But this one definitely will result in winners at the designated time. Every commenter on this post receives an entry in the draw, and entries close midday next Thursday 7th October {Brisbane time, convert here}. Winners will be announced in the post on Friday 8th October. The first randomly drawn entry wins the original ink & watercolour of today’s Meep Miniature, and two more names will be drawn to win a notecard mini-print of your favourite Shell Sherree illustration. Bonne chance, merci, grazie!

Friday Fleurish: Book Your Posy

2010-09-24T16:43:00.008+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

It's been rainy and overcast for most of this week, so the garden is feeling very chirpy, even if the washing on the line begs to differ. I caught a towel trying to throw itself back into the top loader this morning. I gave it my blessings, with a healthy sprinkling of lavender oil for good measure.

It's been ages ~ ages! ~ since we had a Friday Fleurish, so with the weather bureau's welcome expectations of a fine spring weekend, here's a sweet fragrant posy in a vintage cut crystal glass for you to place on your windowsill, or on a carefully nonchalant stack of books such as this. If the mercury and birds are starting to head south in your neck of the woods, I hope these blooms bring you some cheer. {To save you searching, the kitty is snoozing on a small buttoned footstool under the table...} And on that note...

Happy Friday Fleurish to you!

{Inspiration thanks to September 2010 Country Style, Australian edition.}

Bicycle Built for Two

2010-09-21T11:42:00.004+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5" x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm ] ACQUIRE A MEEP

This is the closest I've come to a bicycle in a long time. Maybe I'll acquire one for decorative purposes. I'd consider riding it down to the local shops just for the pleasure of filling the basket with an armful of fresh tulips and a crusty baguette, but the last time a bicycle and I became closely acquainted, it was not a happy affair. And I don't fancy helmet hair. Better to lean it suggestively against the house and enjoy the daydream. You're most welcome to take it for a spin if you're so inclined ~ good luck encouraging kitty to wear her helmet...

Francophile Friday: Paris, Honey?

2010-09-17T11:15:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] Paris Prints Here

My mum and her hubby keep bees. Well, technically, hubby keeps the bees. But as their hives reside just a hop, skip and pair of sensible shoes down the slope from the back verandah, my mother can't help but be a tad besotted with their endearing behaviour ~ therefore, she is going back where she went before {when the bees first moved in} and had vowed never to go again {after an unfortunate early incident involving a flaming smoke puffer and an ill-fitting beekeeper suit}, and is going to become a beekeeper's assistant once more {with a puffer she has personally prepped and a gaffer-tape-modified beekeeper suit}. After a happy ending to a swarming event by these dear little creatures earlier this week {spacious peach tree versus insufficient room for bees-knees}, I took inspiration from Cali's photo {merci, dear Cali!} of this quaint faux beehive on a street corner in the quartier des Halles in Paris to see us into the weekend. {Update: located on Rue Pierre Lescot.} May your weekend be filled with milk and honey. And well-behaved bees. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

First Official Meeps Baby: It's a Girl!

2010-09-14T11:15:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5" x 3.5" [9 x 6.5 x 9cm]

For new visitors here who might be scratching your heads over this Meep business and wondering which exotic herbal tea we're dunking our nutty bikkies into, you can follow the crumb trail right back to here, in the comments section almost seven months ago to the day, where the word Meep first made its appearance with many thanks to Queen Amy.

Anyhoo, after adopting this word faster than the next generation i-Whatever will be adopted by the converted masses, we've had our first official Meeps baby. Virginia of Paris Through My Lens is now the clucky mum of a dear little black rescue kitten and she named her Meeps. In the grand tradition of the chicken and the egg, or a mirror reflected in a mirror {I'm mid-dunk of a passionflower-absinthe-infused Yorkshire black tea, in case you're curious}, how could I resist doing a Meep of a Meep. And her mum.

Happy New Home, dear Meeps. You've landed on your paws beautifully, little one...

Venerdi in Venice: Arte Moderna e Meepea

2010-09-10T17:00:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE A MEEP

After Tuesday's high risk of a fire hydrant incident {albeit a fetching one}, I thought I'd raise the tone by taking us for a classy wander to this art gallery in Venice, in the Campo San Stefano. The only incident potential I see here is one of our voluminous totes knocking a Murano glass sculpture from its plinth, so let's see if we can divert Hugh from his gondolier duties and put him in charge of minding our bags. Today's diversion also gives me a handy excuse to thank Pierre of Venice Daily Photo again, not just for today's inspiration, but for his thoughtful and generous feature of our ~ well, I guess you could call them "collaborations after the fact". Grazie mille, dear Pierre! Your kindness is beyond measure.

As for the kitty, unlike the young man in the original photo, she refuses to spend a lovely Friday engrossed in her laptop and missing the chance of gelato with her friends. I vote that we take a leaf from her book {after we've all dropped in on each other's blogs, of course!} And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

A Wee-nsy Temptation

2010-09-07T11:00:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE A MEEP

I'm working on being more decisive. So is this puppy dog. Will he choose the hydrant? Or will he choose the kitty. Hydrant? Kitty? She is wisely distancing herself from any potential embarrassment while he makes up his mind...

A basket of pastries, on the other hand, would make life so simple.

Francophile Friday: Paris Room With a Vue

2010-09-03T11:00:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm] Paris Prints Here

A certain someone is flying to Paris today. Well, today her time, which is tomorrow my time and possibly yesterday by the time you're reading this ~ wherever you are. Fortunately, she is not the type to confuse easily. She knows exactly when she needs to board her winged chariot and I'm rather certain she will arrive at the airport early and with barely contained pastry Stohrer urges. Today's illustration is inspired by a photo from one of her previous visits. I'm not sure if she'll be gazing out on the same view during this coming vacation, but I felt it was a nice way for us to wave her Bon Voyage and wish her the happiest of times, with only the merest hint of envy in our wavering voices. Meanwhile, we can enjoy pressing our nose up to the glass here and imagining the delights in store for her. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Bonjour, May I Woo You?

2010-08-31T11:01:00.019+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 2.5" x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm] ACQUIRE A MEEP

Woof. Woo~woo~woof~woof. Woo~oooooo~woo~woo~woof ~woof. Woof.

Bonjour! You look nice.. Please pass me a croissant from that basket and I promise to eat all evidence. Yes, including the crumbs.

Venerdi in Venice: Princess and the Wisteria-Pea

2010-08-27T14:11:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE

As we venture into the weekend, let's put an eensy weensy twist on an old fairytale, The Princess and the Pea. This Princess is Venetian {just run with it} and the pea is a flowering member of the pea family, commonly known as wisteria. Rather than being poked somewhat rudely under the Princess's mound of mattresses, thus causing an irksome night's lack-of-sleep and wan circles under her eyes, our wisteria-pea is allowed to frolic and clamber playfully outside her window. Being a wisteria-pea of the fragrant kind, each night, its soporific purple perfume wafts gently into our Princess's bedroom, tickling her nostrils briefly before allowing her to enjoy hours of deep slumber that chamomile tea can only dream of achieving. {Inpiration for today's Meep Miniature illustration is thanks to the talented Alain Hamon of Destination Venise, via dear Pierre of Venice Daily Photo. Grazie mille to you both!} As we enjoy the hospitality of our well-rested Princess this weekend, here's to sweet dreams for all of us. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Chaise-ing Valentino

2010-08-24T19:14:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 5.5" x 5.5" {14 x 14cm}

Brisbane’s stylish sorts have been all kinds of dizzy over the Valentino Past, Present, Future exhibition that launched here a couple of weeks ago at the Gallery of Modern Art {GoMA}. La dolce vita and champagne have been breeding like rabbits. Considering it’s the first outing of the collection since the expanded version opened in Paris in 2008 ~ one can forgive us our parochial state of chuffedness. I haven’t been yet, mostly because I’m still trying to decide what to wear.

Today’s illustration is inspired by a Valentino Haute Couture evening gown from Spring/Summer 1993. {You’ll find it here.} Since juxtaposition is my word of the month, I also took inspiration for today’s illustration from a purple velvet sofa currently lounging around my local thrift shop for the princely sum of $75. Tempting, but it doesn't quite look like this one. If it did, I’d have strapped it onto a couple of skateboards {on sale for $10 all up} and walked it home... aah, two juxtapositions for the price of one.

Francophile Friday: Wearing Rouge to the Epicerie

2010-08-20T11:00:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE

It feels like we've had a sweet tooth here lately. Not that there's anything wrong with that. {Denial can be a happy place.} Nonetheless, I thought we'd spice ourselves up a bit and take a ride on something red for a change {albeit faded. Baby steps}. This vintage scooter will do nicely, and as all good fashionistas must do, we shall stop in wherever we see a matching door. This one belongs to an épicerie, so we're bound to find something interesting inside. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

The Doo-the-Macaron-ron-ron...

2010-08-17T16:33:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

This is me in my kitchen. My real kitchen doesn't have those curtains, or a mixmaster, or a mouse. Or me looking as tall as that, but it's my drawing and I can stretch myself if I want to. I don't have pierced ears, but I do have an oven, a tea towel, freckles and a fringe, and I did bake my very first batch of macarons on the weekend. Hoorah! They are pale pink with dark chocolate ganache filling, and while far from perfect, have a delicate crisp shell and lightly chewy texture ~ and aren't too shabby at all. No, they don't come out of the oven ready-assembled, but ~ well, I don't really need to explain it again, do I.

The kettle's boiling {"One lump or two with your déjà vu?"} so here's your white damask napkin and I'll assemble the mismatched Limoges...

Venerdi in Venice: Meep, Meep, We're Here

2010-08-13T18:46:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE A MEEP

Buon giorno! Here we are in Venice. It seems we've been invited to stay in this teensy home, with its even teensier garden overlooking the Grand Canal. {Grazie mille to Pierre of Venice Daily Photo for his magnificent photo inspiration!} Did you remember to bring a hostess gift? Not to worry, I brought enough toy koalas and souvenir spoons to cover all of us. Mind your step ~ the gaps on the private footbridge are merciless on stilettos. Here, let me give you a hand with that Vuitton steamer trunk. Don't worry, we'll revive ourselves momentarily with something refreshing in the shade of those trees. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

A Bird in the Hand

2010-08-10T16:50:00.002+10:00

graphite and watercolour pencils on paper, 3 x 2.5" [8 x 6.5cm]

It's grey and drizzling. Good weather for ducks, and the bluebird of happiness: chirpy no matter what the circumstances. This little one was offered shelter under the fluffy purple parasol, but preferred to take advantage of the complimentary shower opportunity. Some smudgy pencils seem just right on a day when the edges outside are blurred. So does a spot of tea and some brown-sugared oatmeal and raisin bikkies. Care to join us? I've gone for the bird-healthy choice, but there are some macarons tucked away for emergencies if you prefer...

Francophile Friday: Vintage Paris Vintage

2010-08-06T16:59:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour meep miniature, 2.5" x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm]

Meep, meep! I'm still consoling myself over the untimely partial demise of this other little weensy {please don't ask: it's far too traumatic but involves a pair of scissors and a tidying session gone horribly wrong}. So as part of my self-therapeutising, I've hit the pens instead of the Pimms and drawn a variation on the theme. The Citroën received a grease, oil change and a fresh paint job while I was at it. Luckily for us, this vintage number is not a fashionable accessory left in situ à la Merci ~ so we can tootle off for a Friday drive. Or you can come back in a couple of days and we'll go for a Sunday drive. Wear your best bonnet. {Our chauffeur has just left the illustration in search of his.}

I wonder if this is where our Tuesday redhead bought her gown? And it seems the Russian Cossack look is going to be big this winter. I have no idea why, but you saw it here first. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Brisbane Substations are Fashionable Again

2010-08-03T18:37:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

Dotted in and around Brisbane, you'll find old powerhouses and substations that used to power our trams back in the glory days when they ran here, until the late 1960s. {Spoken with the affection of someone who has never had to share the roads with them...}

Several of these buildings have been revived to house arts programmes and the like, as covered nicely in a recent Brisbane News, a lovely {and free!} local magazine I enjoy retrieving from the driveway each week. You can read the story here {click Feature in the dropdown box towards the bottom right of that window}.

With a deft touch, the fashion spread and front cover were shot at the Paddington substation ~ and inspired today's post. To check it out, head over {yes, again}, click Fashion and the magic of online publications will transport you there, to one of my favourite Brissie suburbs. In honour of my two dearest Leos who just celebrated their birthdays, I turned the six foot 13 inch model into a redhead. And I figured a poodle wouldn't go astray with that gown...

Venerdi in Venice: Slice of Piazzetta

2010-07-30T14:44:00.003+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE A MEEP

If this was a night painting, these lamps would shed some light on the Piazzetta as we head past the Doge's Palace towards St Mark's Basilica in Venice. During daytime hours, though, we can simply allow them to look pretty. {Grazie mille to Pierre of Venice Daily Photo for the always-beautiful inspiration!} Judging by this scenery, if you hear anyone in Venice say, "I'm in the Doge house," there's no need to feel sorry for them or shout them a consolatory vino {unless you're in the mood for something medicinal yourself}. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Bathing Belles

2010-07-27T11:38:00.000+10:00

pencil and watercolour illustration on cold-pressed cotton paper

Lately, I've seen a number of these riotous floral swimming caps, both vintage and new. I'm not sure if I'd have the derring-do to wear one in public, but they delight me. They'd fit in nicely with this old bathing pavilion, and I seem to recall Katie making that very same observation at the time.

I briefly considered offering a handmade upcycling tutorial to Etsy, using fishing line, a crochet hook, old hot water bottles and a couple of shower curtains ~ but I had problems with my flour-and-water glue mix not holding up under water so it was back to the drawing board, where I sensibly made this instead. If you'd like a copy of the tutorial, you know where to find me. Over at Etsy buying one ...

Francophile Friday: L'Escargot Slow Show

2010-07-23T17:34:00.005+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm]

Does focusing on snails on Friday help the weekend slide along more slowly? Perhaps a notion worth exploring at a leisurely pace...

L'Escargot Montorgueil takes the Slow Food movement literally. This popular restaurant in Paris decorates its signage with a trail of regal-looking golden snails {perhaps paying a side homage to garlic butter}, leaving us in no doubt as to its primary fare. As for the principle of "waste not, want not", there's an interesting story about the establishment here.

Thank you so very much to Cali, who sent me a photo of these charming snails and their abode quite some time ago. With due deference to the subject matter, I took my time illustrating them. So likewise, please take your time gazing at them. They aren't going anywhere in a hurry. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

J.Lo Down on Madre's

2010-07-20T12:28:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

It's been a long time coming, but we're visiting Pasadena today. Madre's was Jennifer Lopez's Cuban restaurant in the Southern Lake district of Pasadena. If its quaint, shabby chic appearance and mojitos or arroz con pollo appeal to you, you can make your way there with no haste and even less speed, as it's closed. And I mean Closed of the Permanent Variety. I feel for the in-house Cuban cigar maker who may not have found a new job very easily.

Closed it may be, but when I saw Petrea's photo of this recently, I knew I had to draw it and she kindly obliged. Thank you for the inspiration, Petrea! If you need to know more about Madre's for the sake of posterity or because you're a J.Lo stalker ~ err, fan ~ there are plenty of great links at Petrea's place. And if you feel like unscrewing that exterior light fitting and sending it on a slow boat to Australia, the Cuban cigar maker and I know nothing...

Venerdi in Venice: A Weensy Stroll

2010-07-16T21:00:00.000+10:00

ink & watercolour ACEO weensy, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm]

Let's stroll into the weekend, dropping our cares into this canal in Venice, in a serene and quiet location near San Martino Vescova, away from the madding crowds. Grazie mille to Pierre of Venice Daily Photo for his constant inspiration. {Happy holidays, Pierre!}

We can vote on where we'll stay based on the colour of our favourite gelato. If no pets are allowed, someone may need to take a trip to the local Hotel for Dogs. But this puppy only barks "Meep, meep," so I'm thinking we can smuggle him in and no-one will be the wiser. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Bastille Day Weather Forecast: Macaron Showers

2010-07-13T13:39:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.25" [18 x 21cm]

Today I was going to take us to a location somewhere not in France, given that it's been very French here lately, but with Bastille Day nearly upon us ~ well, how remiss would I be!

Instead, I'll do a weather forecast for tomorrow and predict that it will be raining macarons. Take your largest umbrella, and some bubble wrap wouldn't go astray. There's also a chance of éclairs and croissants, but it's recommended to head indoors if that's the case. They pack more of a punch when bouncing off one's scone. However you're celebrating, and wherever that may be, here's to a happy 14th July!

Francophile Friday Fleurish: Eva's Paris Peonies

2010-07-09T16:43:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour ACEO weensies, each one 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm]

I don't think it's peony season anywhere on the globe at the moment, except perhaps in some mad biologist's greenhouse where this spectacular bloom is in the process of being hybridised for world domination of the most gloriously forgiveable kind...

In the meantime, we can console ourselves with a pretend bunch for the weekend ~ like this armful carried by Virginia's granddaughter Eva in Paris and almost half her size. {Thanks yet again to dear Virginia!} And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday Fleurish to you!

The Versatile Blogger Goes Meep For Winter

2010-07-06T11:00:00.061+10:00

ink & watercolour meep miniature, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm] ACQUIRE

There's something about beach stripes that says "Summer". {Hands up if you just read that as "beach strips..." If you look closely, you'll see our kitty is wearing no clothes. Shameful.} As it's winter here, it's kind of nice to imagine making off with that towel and deck chair and finding a sunny spot, but that would force one to disregard the seductively half-open door. Decisions, decisions. And while we ponder our conundrum, please allow me to pose for a brief interlude...

I'm honoured to receive The Versatile Blogger Award from leOpard13, whose Lazy Thoughts from a Boomer is an intelligent and far-from-lazy blog that I thoroughly recommend to you. We met at PopCultureNerd's place, and I'm very chuffed to be included amongst his awardees. Thank you, leOpard13! In addition to thanking leOpard13 for demonstrating his discerning taste, I need to let you know seven things about me, as well as passing the award on. Here goes:

I have a sack of almond meal in the pantry and several macaron recipes but have not yet attempted any. I find myself sadly lacking in patience and candy thermometers.
I once played the harpsichord for half of Handel's Messiah from Scratch and it takes a lot of pluck to do that.
I have 29 rolls of ribbon at the ready for any kind of gift-wrapping emergency.
Yoga is my sport of choice {though my Olympic dream fades with every passing four years}.
I'm tempted to migrate north for the winter but I'd miss home too much {and a number of ducks I know don't recommend it}.
I'll happily sign a petition to have chocolate officially recognised as a food group.
I think I'm indecisive but I'm not quite sure...

So rather than trying to choose from all of the outstanding blogs I love: if I follow your blog, you're welcome to take this award and do a happy dance. Yes, I just ducked out of that one. Call me "chicken" and I'll be plucked {just prior to making the shortest recorded attempt at flying north}, but don't worry, I'll be back by Friday.

Francophile Friday: Tour de Tour d'Argent

2010-07-02T11:00:00.089+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

Today, with abundant warm fuzzy thanks to Virginia of Paris Through My Lens, we visit La Tour d'Argent. Roughly translated in duck language as, "Run away! Run away!"

This prestigious establishment {precisely translated in English language as "The Tower of Silver"} is not actually made of silver, causing somewhat of a disappointment to those who love polishing and arrive there appropriately equipped. Opened in 1582, it was built of Champagne stone which gave off silvery reflections and therefore, the name. La Tour d'Argent has been especially been revered for its fine duck dining experience for well over a century. The ducks are so famous that each one is numbered and the diner receives a postcard to verify the same ~ thus giving the ducks a very real appreciation of the expression, "Your days are numbered."

Virginia's photo dressed itself in black tie for this esteemed restaurant, so my illustration chose to do the same. There's quite an interesting story of the history of La Tour d'Argent at its website. I'm glad we don't have to duel for dinner reservations nowadays, much as it would bring the awaiting ducks much pleasure to watch. And on that note... no, wait for it...

Do you remember our Date With a Stack of Light Reading?

Recently, I was contacted by the delightful Jamie from Literacyhead.com, an inspiring online resource for Literacyheads ~ those who "may have expertise in different areas of literacy, but all are committed to children's literacy, passionate about the arts, incessant thinkers, and display a propensity for having fun." I'm beyond chuffed that this illo is one of those chosen for the current issue, Reading Habits, to help give writers ideas in the Write StARTs section. If you love reading and the arts {and if you're here, that's most likely You}, please do pop over and have a browse. It's a wonderful concept.

Oh, and Tuesday posts resume next week. Hooray! And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: We are Lions, Hear Us Meep

2010-06-25T11:56:00.009+10:00

ink & watercolour ACEO weensy, 3.5" x 2.5" [9 x 6.5cm]
Acquire this original Meep Miniature here.

Cats big and small love to laze, stretch, slumber in the sun ~ and to indulge in the occasional Faux-Doze for the benefit of potential prey. These stately lions watching over the Canal Grande in Venice are no exception, except that they tend to stay still for the sake of a regal photo or sketching opportunity, and all they're likely to catch is the odd irreverent pigeon thought. Thanks so very much to Pierre's Venice Daily Photo for generously allowing me its exquisite inspiration, and especially to Alain Hamon for this particular one. Grazie mille!!!

[Post Update 29th June: Dear Alain has kindly posted my little illo together with his photo at his own blog, and it's lovely seeing them side by side. Thank you so very much!]

It's a gorgeous fine winter's day here, the kind I'd be happy with all season long ~ mild in temps, a sun that's fully present but mellow rather than roaring, and a few benign little tufts of lazy vanilla fairy floss. I might even follow the lions' lead and climb out onto the roof to survey the landscape. And on that potentially perilous note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

Francophile Friday: Marseille-Days

2010-06-18T11:30:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7" x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

Order print here.

One of my dear friends sent me her copy of Julia Child's My Life in France {written with Alex Prud'Homme, her hubby's great-nephew}. I happened to be reading about Julia and Paul Child's time in Marseille when I received the kind offer from "Papirazzi", via an equally kind friend of his named Hayley {who also happens to be an artist and sells her vintage finds in France here}, to use his photos for inspiration. Thank you, Papirazzi and Hayley! Lo and behold, the first photo to catch my eye was this happy façade in Marseille. In the book, Julia writes that Marseille "struck me as a rich broth of vigorous, emotional, uninhibited Life - a veritable "bouillabaisse of a city," as Paul put it." These exuberant colours look very much at home there. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Francophile Friday: Together Apartment

2010-06-11T11:00:00.014+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 8.75" x 7" [22.5 x 18cm]

It's officially the 11th day of winter here. {Australia is apparently one of the few places that changes seasons on the 1st of the calendar month each quarter, rather than with the more natural ebb and flow of cycles of the moon, the changing of leprechauns' underwear and the packing or unpacking of squirrels' nuts.} As I sit here inside with my lilac wool beret and enough layers to make a mille-feuille flake with envy, I can feel myself slowly thawing in these rays of sun in the apartment in Paris that I've rented us for the weekend. I'm off to pick up some holistic food for our furry friends, so please let yourself in and make yourself comfie while I'm gone. {But please ~ don't let the dog out.} And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Venerdi in Venice: It's All About Me-ep

2010-06-04T19:33:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour ACEO weensy, 2.5" x 3.5" [6.5 x 9cm]

Let's go for a tiny stroll. A very tiny stroll, across a very tiny bridge in Venice where we can gaze at our reflections in the canal and wonder at our collective beauty. I don't see anyone else around, so we can stay as long as we like. One can't rush narcissism, after all. Yes, that's a fluffy tu-tu, so it's not just about me-me, and to spot the kitty in this one, you may need one of these. And on that note...

Happy Venerdi in Venice to you!

PS: Just heard that the charming old Shingle Inn, long-since dismantled and stored, has finally been given a new home, and will be re-built in the foyer of our City Hall, currently under renovations. Great article here with a photo of the original. I am delighted. Delighted.

Francophile Friday: Walk This Way

2010-05-28T11:00:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 7' x 8.75" [18 x 22.5cm]

I can't tell you how tempted I was to put this puss in boots, but you can imagine, I'm sure. Last Tuesday's train just pulled into one of our favourite cities. In thank-you-dear-Katie's photo inspiration for today's setting, these Parisian doors were firmly closed to inquisitive eyes, but it seems our mysterious goldie-locked blonde traveller and her snowy white feline companion know how to charm their way in. They are going into an 'Illustration Protection Programme' and you won't see them again until they are ready to be unveiled properly. {It could be a while ~ I've arranged for regular champagne and macaron deliveries}. By the way, I've missed you all this week. And on that note...

Happy Francophile Friday Fleurish to you!

Francophile Friday: Keep the Carousel Warm

2010-05-21T11:00:00.031+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 4.5" x 6.25" [12 x 16cm]

Tuesday's talk of a relaxed train trip inspired me to have a little blog breather ~ yes, that one I promised a while ago and conveniently forgot about. I'll be posting on Fridays only for a bit ~ a change is as good as a holiday, some wise drunk ~ err, soul once said. Paris seems the ideal spot to keep you in suspended animation for the coming week. And how better than a beautiful carousel ~ it takes you nowhere in a leisurely fashion and there's a lot to look at along the way. You'll also find a generous supply of fairy floss {cotton candy} and macarons upstairs to sustain you. And on that sweet note...

Happy Francophile Friday to you!

Meep: Vintage Travel

2010-05-18T16:28:00.002+10:00

ink & watercolour weensy, 2.25" x 3" [ 6 x 8cm]

This little train goes, "Meep!" What a romantic way to travel. As long as the porter remembers to load her luggage on board, the goldie-locked lassie looks well-prepared for any chance meeting she may encounter along the way. And she's already put in her order for poached salmon for dinner. Two serves ~ one of them minus the lemon butter and vegetables, please. One has to watch one's figure, you know.

Francophile Friday Fleurish: By Geranium, Some Macarons!

2010-05-14T18:02:00.001+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, inspiration thanks to Virginia Jones Photography

Click to order art print.

Let's head for the weekend with some macaron love. This is inspired by Virginia Jones's beautifully styled photo of her recent macquisitions visit to EuroPane in Pasadena. While these macarons may not be made on French soil, they look like fine ambassadors for this typically Parisian treat. There's little else to say, really, other than...

Happy Francophile Friday Fleurish to you!

Ferry Welcoming

2010-05-11T11:00:00.016+10:00

ink & watercolour illustration, 6" x 6.5" [15 x 16.5cm]

I love it when people roll out the Welcome Mat by tattooing it onto their footpaths. There's no doubting the commitment level.

When I was over visiting Alexa the other day, her photo of a "Welcome to Booklyn" sign embedded into the concrete reminded me of this Brisbane illustration I did years ago, at the Thornton St ferry stop at Kangaroo Point. It's only a few kilometres or so from ye olde Pineapple Hotel that you might recall from a previous visit. I haven't been there in years, so I don't know how this sign is weathering the foot, boot and thong traffic ~ but I do hope it's still there in all its quaint glory!