I grew up in Richmond, Va. as the only child of Henderson and Anne Howard. I inherited a love of animals from them both. My mom and I adore real ones and stuffed toys, too. They provide inspiration for my characters today. I've had cats, dogs and bunny rabbits. I like to imagine I'll have my own farm of favorite animals one day! I'm influenced by various painters & illustrators, as well as contemporary design, fashion and animation.
I knew I wanted to live in New York after visiting with my mom at 14. I love the culture, diversity of people, foods and all the little neighborhoods (especially mine). I moved here for Graduate School and never left. I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Communication Arts & Design from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Master of Art Degree from New York University.
I named my workspace Blip Blop Studio because this is where I started the Blip Blop series--dimensional paintings with a bubble-like surface, saturated & as shiny as jellybeans. These include representational and abstract paintings. My flat paintings & graphic work is more representative of my focus on art for children's rooms, but both styles share a playful quality & the use of vibrant color. I strive to create charming and humorous characters that engage kids and also appeal to a more sophisticated sensibility.
As the children's market continues to grow, so does the demand for new designs and imagery that serve and enhance a brand's identity. I'm interested in licensing my images for a variety of products in the market, including bedding, apparel, tableware, stationery & paper products, packaging, publishing, games, gift items & wall art.
In 2003 a buyer asked me to create murals for his daughter's playroom and a new career blossomed. The little scenarios and relationships between the animals evolved in a natural way. I hope my characters represent the openess children have, their curiosity, sense of surprise and immense capacity for joy. It's gratifying to watch as a child sees his or her room full of fresh painted new friends! I enjoy the process, from the initial sketches to the painting and execution of an idea. Custom artwork truly adds something special to a room, whether it's an elaborate scene or whimsical elements.
In addition, I work as a scenic artist on major film, television and commercial productions that include campaigns for Target, The Gap, Motorola, L'Oreal, Revlon & Mac Cosmetics, videos for Beck, Beyonce & The Strokes, HBO's Sopranos, David Letterman and Conan O'Brien.
Please contact me about licensing artwork or commissioning a painting or mural. Visit BlipBlopShop for art prints that offer an affordable alternative to original paintings with the same look & integrity!
