Bringing Patterns to Life
and other fun news!
I wanted to share a glimpse into my process of taking an idea for a pattern collection from inspiration to completion. As a fine artist focusing on surface pattern design, it is vital for my creative heart to keep the focus on the creative process and not let myself get weighed down with the digital portion of my work. Each day, I dedicate time to nurturing ideas and transforming them into tangible pieces of art. The process begins with inspiration, often drawn from the beauty of marine life and the vibrant nature around me. From the delicate patterns on a seashell to the mesmerizing movement of ocean waves, nature provides me with endless inspiration.
Once I have a clear vision for a collection, it’s time to start getting those ideas out of my head and onto paper. I will sketch and paint many versions of each item, and I mean many! Using different brush sizes or sometimes unconventional items like a q-tip or torn piece of paper, I work to add different texture and details to each piece. Next, I will start adding each piece of paper to my inspiration board. At this point my original vision will usually have taken on a slightly different direction or maybe even a new path altogether. Once my board is full, then I paint a few more just for good measure!
But the journey doesn't end with painting. In surface pattern design, technology plays a crucial role, and my studio is no exception. Once my paintings are complete, I transition to the digital realm to refine and enhance my designs. Scanning the artwork into my computer, I use graphic design software to manipulate and perfect each pattern.
This digital transformation allows me to experiment with colors, scales, and repeats, ensuring that the final design is versatile and visually appealing. The ability to see my patterns come to life on screen is incredibly rewarding. It opens up endless possibilities for how these designs can be applied in the real world, from textiles to wallpapers and beyond.
One of the most exciting aspects of my work is seeing my patterns come to life in various applications. There's a unique thrill in holding a fabric swatch printed with a design that started as a simple idea in my studio.
Each pattern has its own story, a journey from inspiration to creation, from paper to digital, and finally to the finished product. It's a process that requires patience, precision, and a lot of passion. But at the end of the day, it's incredibly fulfilling to see my art not just as a piece to admire, but as something functional and beautiful that people can incorporate into their everyday lives. You can now find my “Pretty in Pink” flamingo fabric collection on Spoonflower, along with some other fun designs! Clink on the link below!
Heidi
