Laura Denton has illustrated the Beauty page for the May issue of ELLE Magazine. Her illustrations show step-by-step instructions on how to relax the body and the mind.  

Emily Eldridge and goods and sundries store ASOKO bring to you the second collection of their popular "Asoko de ART " project! Featuring a variety of practical and pretty items, such as mini eco-bags and mask cases. Be sure to be seen with these bright, vivid items available now at the ASOKO Online Store.    

For the seventh episode of our Q&A series, Clare Owen has graciously allowed us a peek into her everyday goings-on. Her lifestyle and character are clearly reflected in the warm colors and very introspective subjects of her illustrations.  

1. What is your morning routine?

I'm a rubbish morning person. I need a few cups of tea before leaving the house, and then I cycle to town where I have a studio. I then have another cup of tea, a catch up with my studio mates, and finally start work! 

 

2. Where do you like to work?

At the moment I'm working out of my house. It has a lovely view of rolling English hills, and I get to be with my cats all day, so I don't mind. But I usually work from my shared city centre studio which has a horrible view (of a  grey car park), but I love to be with my friends there.

3. What are your favorite materials?

I love the versatility of working on the computer, but nothing beats collage; I find it very therapeutic. I also love painting with gouache. I love the flatness. 

 

4. Who or what is your biggest muse?

France! I've always been a francophile, and I just love french design, illustration, and architecture. I also love French girls' style (yawn, cliche I know). I particularly love visiting flea markets there and finding old ephemera. It always has the most beautiful typography and vintage illustration. 

 

5. When you start working, what do you do first?

Once I've found an audiobook or podcast to get stuck into, I'll usually start finding references for a job to help inspire me and help me draw. 

 

6. What are your favorite subjects to draw?

Cats, because there's a lot of subtle humour in cats, they're just little punks that do what they want. Also, people and flowers, I love the diversity and beauty in both of them, and it never gets repetitive. I could draw just those forever. 

7. Who are your favorite artists?

So so many! I love a lot of midcentury folk because they worked through several disciplines, particularly The Eames, Alexander Girard, and Corita Kent. More recently, I love Carson Ellis, Ryo Takemasa, and Blanca Gomez, and outside of illustration, I love Vivian Mailer, Anni Albers and Linda McCartney, and Beyonce ;)

 

8. If you could see how one artist works from beginning to end, who would it be?

I would love to see how Girard worked, its a graphic style that could easily be replicated with a computer nowadays, but to see how he did in a time before digital would be fascinating. 

 

9. How do you get over a creative hump?

I write lists, think about what I want to get out of my work, what I feel my portfolio is missing and what brings me joy. This usually reminds me why I love being creative, and is enough to get me out of a slump. 

10. If you were to make a 10 piece series, what would it be about?

Paris! 

 

11. What other art forms would you like to try, or already do, and why?

I'd love to so many things! I've dabbled in ceramics, so maybe have a more serious practice there, or maybe jewelry.

 

12. What book have you read recently, or what is your favorite book?

I love anything by David Sedaris.

 

13. What sort of music do you like?

I know everyone says this, but all sorts! I love Hip-Hop, Jazz, Indie, and Pop. I feel very fortunate that I get to listen to what I want when I work.

 

14. When you meet another creative, what are you most interested by in them?

I love seeing other artist's studios and spaces.

 

15. If you could move anywhere and live comfortably/freely, where would it be?

I'd like to live in a big house perhaps near the sea. Have enough room to have a big messy studio and space to foster animals.

16. What is your ideal vacation?

I love New York. I've been once and would love to go back again. I love just walking around, visiting supermarkets, sitting in parks. I love all the touristy stuff, but I also love all the boring stuff. I just want to drink it all in!

 

17. What do you do when you have to be home with nothing to do?

Loooong baths.

 

18. If you had unlimited resources, what would you create?

I would create a show (theme unknown!) but with work across all sorts of disciplines with a thread running through them all.

 

19. What is your favorite meal?

Pancakes!

20. If you were to throw a party, what kind of get together would you organize?

A big dinner party with all the lovely people I know, with a big long table serving tasty veggie food, and then dancing after to all our favourite songs.

 

21. Where is your favorite place to be around the location you live in?

I live in Bristol and I love sitting by the river with a beer on a lovely sunny evening.

 

22. What are some new skills you would like to learn?

Goldsmithing, sewing, fluent french! So many!

 

23. If you were to talk to someone who doesn't know too much about art, what would you say to convince them to try it out?

It can be an amazing antidote to stress. We all need less stress, and maybe being creative can help.

24. What is your favorite palette? Please name at least 3 colors.

Pink, navy blue, and brown.

 

25. What time of day are you most able to concentrate?

The afternoon.

 

26. What time of day are you most relaxed?

Nighttime, after a bath, and just before bed.

 

27. Do you have a favorite distraction?

Duolingo!

 

28. How do you unwind?

Trash TV and a glass of wine.

 

29. What is one word of advice you would give yourself 10 years ago?

Be kind to yourself! Everyday!

30. What is one thing about yourself that you hope won’t change?

Empathy :)

Check out Marcus Oakley's collaboration with London-based LAZY OAF! This collection prominently features Marcus' whimsical illustrations on casual T's, statement shirts, bucket hats, and convenient side-bags. Shop now at their online store here!

As part of one of our promotion campaigns, CWC has been producing a series of risograph prints of illustrators' works since 2019. Developed in Japan, Risograph is a printing technique using a process called stencil printing. Its unique, rustic texture is part of the appeal and has attracted a lot of attention over the past decade. Since anyone can easily mass-produce prints at a low cost, it has become a hot topic among overseas artists. In recent years, the number of risograph studios in Japan has increased, making it more accessible to hobbyists and professionals alike. In this exhibition, we will introduce all the work produced by CWC illustrators over the past year. There will also be risos for sale at the CWC Gallery & Shop, so stay tuned! We hope that you will find artwork as enjoyable as it is easy to acquire at our store. by Marcus Oakley by Berry Aktuglu   by Bijou Karman   by Brolga by Clare Owen   by Stina Persson   by Jeffrey Fulvimari  

Nebel Tohoku has reached out to Masaki Ryo for their 2021 Calendar. Each illustration is a beautiful depiction of the coming season!    

In honor of the year of the Cow, Shangai iapm will have a glorious display of New Years decorative installations with original cow sculpture designs by Laura Denton. Visitors can enjoy the cheerful visuals and charming cows to celebrate the Chinese New Year.   *Read more press here *  

Eveline Tarundajaja designed four original cow sculptures to usher in the year of the cow. The Chinese New Year event is a major event for Tai Po Mega Mall in New Territories, China. Along side her good luck cows visitors can take photos in the environments with many good luck symbols to ensure a bright start to the new year.          

Jeffrey Fulvimari recently collaborated with apm shopping center in Hong Kong for a special year of the cow installation featuring his original designs. The immersive space celebrates Chinese New Year.   The one of a kind cow sculptures are in bright red and gold environments to bring auspicious wishes to everyone who visits.  

 

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Find out more about his amazing illustration work on their site: Link apm Hong Kong   *Additional Press*

Clare Owen has been commissioned to design a limited edition Valentine's Day package for Fika, a popular Scandinavian sweets specialty store launched by Isetan Shinjuku. The boxes contain an assortment of delicious Northern European cookies, a small piece of Scandinavia!

The CWC Gallery & Shop has officially opened, starting with an auspicious exhibition featuring this year's zodiac, the Cow.   2021 Cowabunga features illustrators worldwide giving their take on the Cow, all of them available exclusively at the CWC Gallery & Shop online store. The word "Cowabunga" originates from the Hawaiian word "kupaianaha," which means "I did it!" a sentiment all of us can relate to after making it through 2020. Make this coming year a success by livening up your or an acquaintance's surroundings, and let's welcome a fresh and artistic start to 2021!   Bijou Karman   Yuri Shimojo   Punimelt   Berry Aktuglu   Victoire Avril  

For the sixth installment of our Q&A segment, Australian artist and muralist Brolga has graciously answered a whole lot of questions for us! His illustrations feature a motley crew of funky and colorful beasts who love to play and eat and have fun. Brolga himself seems like an artist who loves to find joy in their everyday life, and it clearly translates to his work. Without further ado, here's Brolga:   1. What is your morning routine? I usually wake up and read the news. I'll then get up, make avocado toast for breakfast and be at my desk around 10 am.   2. Where do you like to work? I work from home and that's where I've found is optimal for me. Everything is so efficient that way. Plus, if I need to work late, I can still see my partner. Or if I need to nap during the day, I can do that easily. I really like the idea of being able to work from home while living in cool places. 3. What are your favorite materials? When I was younger, I couldn't stand mechanical pencils but now they're all I use! My favourite that one is by Aristo, I found it in Seoul and it has a nice and thick lead. Other than that, it's my iMac, scanner and Wacom tablet. These are the things that I use the most.   4. Who or what is your biggest muse? Travelling. 5. When you start working, what do you do first? When I start working on a new project, I'll do lots and lots of research to get a grasp of the subject. I'll then begin with super rough sketches to try out ideas that quickly pass by.   6. What are your favorite subjects to draw? Creatures that have never existed before. 7. Who are your favorite artists? Some of my favourites artists include Pablo Picasso, Tom Wesselmann, Stuart Davis, John Chamberlain, Reg Mombassa, Roy Lichtenstein, Fernand Leger.   8. If you could see how one artist works from beginning to end, who would it be? John Chamberlain. He up metal and old cars to make these fantastic sculptures. I heard when he was too old to do it himself, he used to sit in a swivel chair in the middle of a huge studio and direct his assistants on how to crush them.   9. How do you get over a creative hump? There's lots of ways to get over a creative but they're all based in finding intent and excitement to make new work. Sometimes, I'll book a trip to a country that I have never been before. Other times, I'll simply try a medium that I've never used before.   10. If you were to make a 10 piece series, what would it be about? My dream is to organise an exhibition where I travel to another country and spend time visiting scrap yards and antique shops. I would gather up all these interesting items and at the end of the trip, I would assemble them into artworks and have an art show in that country. I could do that in 10 countries no problems.   11. What other art form would you like to try, or already do, and why? I love old Beatles-esque illustrations, so I would like to learn how to use an airbrush.   12. What book have you read recently, or what is your favorite book? I recently read "Down and Out in Paris and London" by George Orwell, which I loved. My favourite book is probably "The Town and The City" by Jack Kerouac. 13. What sort of music do you like? I listen to lots of different music. We're talking a mix of indie, house, ambient, folk and rock n roll.   14. When you meet another creative, what are you most interested by in them? I like to ask questions about the practical things that I struggle with. Like how to properly send a print in the mail or how they handle certain situations.   15. If you were to collaborate with another artist living or dead, who would it be and what would you do with them? I would like to collaborate in fireworks with Chinese artist, Cai Guo-Qiang.   16. If you could live in any era when would it be? Right now is good but any era before smart phones is sounding better and better.   17. If you could move anywhere and live comfortably/freely where would it be? If I could live in a new country every year, I would. I would love to live in Bangkok. I would also love to live on a small Pacific island. 18. What is your ideal vacation? Anywhere warm, swimming and surfing.   19. What do you do when you have to be home with nothing to do? I tend to my garden, I cook and try new recipes, I waste time online reading about UFO's and Australian sports on the internet, I draw and sketch new ideas, I pester my partner.   20. What is one thing you want to do this year? I would simply like to see my family. My state has been barred from traveling to other states in Australia during Covid and I miss my family.   21. What are three things you want to do within the next 5 years? I would like to start creating more pop-up styled installations and exhibitions. I would like to write a children's book. And I would like to buy a house near the beach.   22. If you had unlimited resources, what would you create? If I had unlimited resources, I would push it towards helping other people.   23. What is your favorite meal? Over the past year, I've perfected the toasted ham and cheese sandwich. It includes; pickles, tomato, ham, cheddar, pesto, tzatziki and spinach.   24. What is your favorite drink? There's a few; Bunderberg Ginger ale, Iced tea, wheat beer.   25. If you were to throw a party, what kind of get together would you organize? I would get a realllly good Beatles cover band and put them in the backyard of a big mansion (with a pool). I would then invite all my family and favourite people. Done.   26. Where is your favorite place to be around the location you live in? I have a magical park down the road from my house. I has saved me during Covid and it now holds a dear place in my heart.   27. If you had to give a tour of your city to an artist you admire where would you take them and why? I would probably throw them on a bike and show them the Keith Haring mural nearby and then ride around the city and look at all the cool, old buildings in Melbourne. 28. When you see artwork that you think is good, how do you react? I'll get consumed in it for a moment and afterwards, in someway, it would have changed me.   29. What is one job that you would do for free, even if it was hard and it took long? I would taste-test every ramen from Sapporo to Fukuoka.   30. If you were to teach a class, what would it be? Drawing Strange Things 101 31. What are some new skills you would like to learn? I would like to learn how to tuft a rug.   32. If you were to talk to someone who doesn't know too much about art, what would you say to convince them to try it out? I would say don't worry about being judged or trying to be good. Just have fun.   33. What is your favorite palette, please name at least 3 colors. Pink, electric blue, yellow, teal and black. 34. What is your favorite movie? Lost in Translation   35. What time of day are you most able to concentrate? Late at night   36. What time of day are you most relaxed? Late at night   37. Do you have a favorite distraction? I love an Australian sport called Australian Rules Football and I spend too much time thinking about it.   38. How do you unwind? I meet up with friends for a beer, see live music, garden or plan a future trip.   39. What is one word of advice you would give yourself 10 years ago? You have everything you need to achieve your dreams.   40. What is one thing about yourself that you hope won’t change? I hope that I never lose my sense of humour.

Happy New Year! We at CWC sincerely hope that the new year will be a wonderful one for everyone and that we will enjoy good health and happiness. We look forward to working with you again this year.   In 2020, CWC launched a new project, CWC Gallery & Shop, an online store featuring original art and art prints by CWC artists. This is an opportunity for us to bring the appeal of art to a wider audience. The store is currently selling works depicting the Chinese zodiac sign for 2021, the bull. It would be a great gift for friends and family, especially during these times when travel is difficult. Please take a look!     The work below is an illustration by illustrator Michael Bartalos, now on sale at the store!  

Starting, December 25th, the CWC Gallery and Shop will be open for business! The CWC Gallery and Shop is an online gallery and storefront featuring all of our extraordinary talents in the CWC roster. Visit the gallery and look for your favorite artist's work, available for purchase! We are also giving away a limited quantity of exclusive Jeffrey Fulvimari risographs to the first 20 customers of our store, so shop now!   Our first ever exhibition brings in the New Year with open arms by featuring the Eastern Zodiac for 2021, the Cow.   Cross World Connections is excited to usher in the year of the cow with a spectacular group show. "Cowabunga! 2021, Year of the Cow Exhibition" brings together a diverse group of 14 artists from across the world to create a genuinely positive group exhibition. The word cowabunga comes from the Hawaiian word "kupaianaha," which means surprising and wonderful.   

Each year brings new energy to the world, and this is not an exception. 2021 is the year of the cow in the Eastern Zodiac. It's customary to bring a charm or artwork of the animal of the year as a blessing and talisman for good luck. Homes throughout Japan will have cow charms and artwork to bring this auspicious vibration. The year of the cow will fortify us with patience and strength to move forward as a society.  

 

There may still be challenges in the coming year, but the spirit of the cow will lead the way! The artwork below is just a small example of what's available at the store! Click HERE to shop now!

Click here to visit the CWC Gallery & Shop!

Brolga has contributed his unmistakably unique style for US-based egg producer Happy Egg Co.'s animated commercial. Check out the joyous eggy advert below!   Happy Egg - Crack Open Happy! from Margaret Bialis on Vimeo.

Bijou Karman's vibrant paintings will be available for viewing and purchase at Hey There Projects gallery located at Joshua Tree, starting November 14th to December 11th. Her depictions of desert flora are filled with life and presence, be sure to check it out in person or online!

Christmas is just around the corner!

Afternoon Tea and Berry Aktuglu bring to you a spacey holiday illustration!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

HOLLANDISCHE KAKAO-STUBE has reached out to our very own Jenny Bowers to illustrate their new box of Christmas treats. Scenes and characters from the Nutcracker decorate this package filled to the brim with assorted cookies and Baumkuchen, perfect as a gift, or to share with friends and family, or even to treat yourself with! Click here to find a store near you!    

The CWC Reflects series looks back on the 30 year legacy of our agency as told through the voice of our CEO and Founder, Junko Wong.

February 4, 2021 marks the thirtieth anniversary of CWC. It’s hard to believe — the years have sped by! A new generation of young and energetic agents are taking the helm and piloting the good ship Cross World Connections on new journeys into exciting territories. I have been looking back through old fliers and photos of those early years, reflecting on the legacy of our agency. I wanted to share some stories from our creative life. CWC was born during the late “Bubble” period of Japan in 1991. At that time, there were many elaborate international design projects that we were fortunate to take part in. These art and design exhibitions and cultural events heightened the sensibilities of young Japanese minds and connected them to new ideas from around the world. It was an exciting time brimming with possibility. I especially cherish all of the exhibitions we curated for Parco with my most cherished being the retrospective of Situationist artist, Jamie Reid, who created the iconic “God Save the Queen” imagery for Sex Pistols. Pictured: Jamie Reid (left) with Gary Mouat Reid’s 1989 exhibition, “Up They Rise” at PARCO was full of dynamic imagery that seemed to imbue the gallery with electric shocks. He was a charming gentleman with a deep sense of compassion for young people. We facilitated a workshop with Jamie Reid and 10 lucky Japanese design students. Over two days he worked with the aspiring designers to help them grow and inspired them to do their best work. I was pregnant at that time and was so impressed with Jamie, I almost named my son after him! Pictured: Jamie Reid (left) with Gary Mouat Pictured: Jamie Reid working with Parco install staff for the exhibition. It was an honor to curate and work alongside this legendary artist, and to help bring his full creative vision to Japan. Connecting this master artist with the Japanese design students was just the thing that Cross World Connections is all about, bringing together people from around the world in the name of creativity and art. I look forward to sharing more of our history as a creative agency in this CWC Reflects series. Stay tuned for more!

On October 30th, Mushbuh will be participating in a fully virtual online group exhibition at SuperRare's VR gallery space and museum, Decentraland. Mushbuh will be exhibiting alongside 11 other forward-thinking Gen Z artists who have adopted the blockchain into their work. For more information check out SuperRare's article on their website. SuperRare is a fully digital art market that relies on the blockchain and cryptocurrency. Each artwork is tokenized as a crypto-collectible digital item that can be traded in their system.

Since October 5th, a series of Disney themed Halloween goods has been released! All illustrations by tomoto.

Get party goods and more at the 3COINS near you!

ART AND ALLSAINTS Part 2 begins! The second consecutive installment of the "ART AND ALLSAINTS" project, which began last year, is a collaboration between fashion brand AllSaints and four CWC illustrators. Naoko Yoshida, Emily Eldridge, Samantha Hahn, and Laura Denton will each draw a unique and pop illustration. Choose a favorite from the four, put it up on your Instagram, and get a chance to win a leather jacket inspired by the drawings! For more details, check out the AllSaints Instagram account! AllSaints Japan: @allsaintsjapan

For our fourth edition of CWC Artists Q&A, we have Berry Aktuglu here to elucidate her day-to-day life! Her colorful and unique style has caught the attention of many collaborators, with many more to come! 1. Where do you like to work? I work from my studio, which is actually a separate room in my home. It is a very bright place, and I didn't want to furnish it with many things except plants and a wide bookcase. My desk is in the middle of the room and gets direct sunlight from the window.
2. What are your favorite materials? I love the flatness of color, so I mostly use gouache paints and add details using pencils and pastels.

3. When you start working, what do you do first? I start the day by replying to emails or doing administrative jobs. When I start painting, I prefer to work long hours on that and not to be distracted by emails or let my mind niggle at other administrative works; so I try to do them very early in the morning.
4. What are your favorite subjects to draw? Nature; animals; people that I know or people that I watch; ​simple things of everyday life.
5. Who are your favorite artists? Henri Matisse, Henri de Toulouse Lautrec, Henri Rousseau, Sonia Delaunay, René Magritte, Édouard Vuillard, Camille Bombois, Maira Kalman
6. What other art form would you like to try, or already do, and why? I like painting ceramics, but in the future, I would love to learn more about wheel throwing to make a collection of bowls. Also, I love cooking and trying new recipes around the world (and also eating, does this count?:) )
7. What book have you read recently, or what is your favorite book? I have two books in my hand at the moment; I just started the Elements of Style; I love the illustrations by Maira Kalman, and the other one is Dog Songs: Poems by Mary Oliver.
8. What sort of music do you like? Psychedelic folk​/indie, jazz, indietronica
9. When you meet another creative, what are you most interested by in them? The first question I would ask is probably their story about how they started out in their field.
10. If you were to collaborate with another artist, living or dead, who would it be, and what would you do with them? To sing with Alex Turner:)
11. What is your ideal vacation? Cottage Life with a sea view; I could live there forever.
12. What do you do when you have to be home with nothing to do? Most probably reading or cooking.
13. What is your favorite meal? I am a breakfast person, I can have it 3 times a day.
14. What is your favorite drink? Coffee in the mornings, wine for the rest of the day.
15. If you were to throw a party, what kind of get together would you organize? It would be a summer dinner party with a bunch of friends together in the garden, a long table arranged with flowers, embroidered linen napkins, and served home-cooked food with handmade ceramics. A piece of music at the back that would make you swing.
16. What is one job that you would do for free, even if it was hard, and it took long? My brother has Down Syndrome; if you catch him in the mood, he would probably show some of his favorite dancing figures to you, and I know how it makes him happy when someone shows him a new move. Seeing his big, bright smile means a lot to my family and me. So, I would definitely create a fun event together with people who have Down Syndrome to put a smile on their faces. They can exhibit their own talents, which can be anything; the important thing is that they express themselves freely, enjoy and learn new things while being part of society.
17. If you were to teach a class, what would it be? I am not an expert but I like sharing my new discoveries and recipes, so probably it would be cooking classes.
18. What is your favorite palette? Please name at least three colors. Ultramarine blue, shell pink, and linden green
19. What is your favorite movie? There are so many films I like; it is difficult to choose; some of them are; The Dark Knight (2008), Forrest Gump, The Prestige, Up, Sweeney Todd, Her, and so on…
20. What time of day are you most able to concentrate? I am a morning person.
21. Do you have a favorite distraction? I like knitting and crocheting! Usually, once the weather turns chilly, I start knitting. Last year, I knitted three scarves and a toy for our friend's baby.
22. What is one word of advice you would give yourself ten years ago? Start living your passion today; there is no point in waiting!
23. What is one thing about yourself that you hope won't change? Perseverance and staying calm during a crisis.
We're excited to see what Berry has up her sleeves for Japan.
Find out more about her work at her portfolio page here!

A collaboration between Berry Aktugulu and the clothing brand "U by SPICK & SPAN" is in the works! Berry has illustrated a limited edition embroidered T-shirt to be released soon! The girl in the illustration also has a "U" logo on her yoga mat. T-shirts are limited in quantity! Some of the looks are already sold out, so check them out here! Be sure to stop by the shop to see it in person!

Creating her own high Sci-Fi sensibilities, Genie has created a cruising image of the future! Parlophone Records, whose notable artists include legends such as the Beatles, Queen, and Radiohead, has reached out to Genie to create this iconic album art for the future funk artist Vantage. Check out the single! Click for more Genie Liang.

Our resident 3D graphics artist and entrepreneur Mushbuh has been making fascinating headway into the blockchain art trading world. SuperRare is an online marketplace that helps artists and buyers meet to make trades, with one unique twist. All sales are made on the blockchain, specifically using a cryptocurrency called Ethereum. Mushbuh, being familiar with bitcoin from previous ventures, has been making a huge wave in this environment so far, with his artwork being cumulatively worth around 27.5 Eth or over 10,000 USD at the time of this writing. For Mushbuh's page on SuperRare, click HERE! Take a look at his portfolio by clicking HERE!

Emily Eldridge has collaborated with ASOKO along the theme of "Bringing Art Closer to Home"! Emily's bright, pop, and cute sensibilities are now available in tote bag and pouch form. Grab her ever-popular "Tinderella" illustration as an everyday use tote! Check out ASOKO STORE for more art items. We hope you enjoy Emily's work!

Japanese actor Ryo Yoshizawa wears KENZO MINAMI's "DEAD FEELINGS" SS2020 tie-dye T-shirt on the cover of "DVD ShiRyo", his debut fan DVD!   This photograph will also be featured as a drawing on the cover of this week's upcoming Big Comic Magazine! Check it out with this season of "DEAD FEELINGS", available at NEPENTHES!  

Studio Flow: "Poppies" by Stina Persson CWC Artist @stina_persson_illustration creates luscious illustrations with her loose and flowing watercolors. Enjoy the poppies! [embed]https://www.instagram.com/tv/CEC_REJpSQf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link[/embed]

For our third Artist Q&A series, we asked Genie Liang some questions about some of her work habits!

1. What is your morning routine?

Coffee to sip on, sketchbook drawing, emails. Then add milk to the same cup of coffee after lunch.

 

2. Where do you like to work?

I work from home, but I like to go out to try new environments to work from.

3. What are your favorite materials?

Pilot Kakuno pen I have 4 now, it’s a nice simple pen.

4. Who or what is your biggest muse?

Time & love.

 

5. What are your favorite subjects to draw?

People in motion, futurist ideas, and scenes with calming compositions.

6. Who are your favorite artists?

MIQ, Little Thunder, Milkbbi, Joyce, Yue, Chloma, Bahi JD, Ehiorobo, Mushbuh, Punimelt, Freddy Carrasco, Minipete, Juli Majer, A Bluer Don Juan, James Jean, Ikegami Yoriyuki, Yoshitaka Amano, Fumiko Takano, Eizin Suzuki, Iris Van Herpen, and more.

 

7. If you could see how one artist works from beginning to end, who would it be?

Junya Suzuki of Chloma. I’d love to see the concept to execution of their clothing ideas.

 

8. How do you get over a creative hump?

Turn off my phone, close my laptop. Drink something hot, go for a walk. Repeat daily for 1-2 weeks.

 

9. What other art forms would you like to try, or already do, and why?

Ceramics, Glass blowing and fashion design. I like how textures and color combinations are the main components in these art forms. I draw mostly figurative works, so these are very abstract to me.

10. What sort of music do you like?

A mix of things. I like exploring and listening to things without context. My favorite genres are ambient, dream pop/shoegaze, house, bossa nova, post-rock. And occasionally classical composers like Claude Debussy or Erik Satie and film composers like Joe Hisaishi and Susumu Hirasawa.

 

11. If you were to collaborate with another artist living or dead, who would it be and what would you do with them?

Wednesday Campanella - an animated music video.

 

12. What is your ideal vacation?

A journey to a different city every couple of days, learning about what to eat… then eating it. And sleeping.

13. What is one thing you want to do this year?

I want to finish my next book. I’ve been working on it this year and it would be a great wrap up of this chapter.

14. What are three things you want to do within the next 5 years?

Publish more books and comics, grow my studio / online shop, get a pet snail.

15. What is your favorite drink?

Coconut boba milk tea, no sugar.

 

16. If you were to teach a class, what would it be?

Figure gesture drawing.

 

17. What are some new skills you would like to learn?

I’d like to learn 3D.

 

18. What is your favorite palette, please name at least 3 colors.

Pale lilac, sky blue, yellow.

19. What is your favorite movie?

Whisper of the Heart.

 

20. How do you unwind?

Lay on the ground and listen to music.

 

21. What is one word of advice you would give yourself 10 years ago?

Follow your heart and don’t be afraid. Every drawing is another small step. Be unwavering in your goals and keep walking steadily. -also, in hindsight, don’t throw away your sketchbooks!

22. What is one thing about yourself that you hope won't change?

I hope I’ll always try new things!

                          Artist Q&A featuring Stina Persson!   1) what is your morning routine I go to the cafe across the street and get myself a great cup of coffee. Without coffee I wouldn’t function. 2) where do you like to work. I wish I would say anywhere, that I bring a sketchbook wherever I go, but it would be a lie. I really love working in my studio. Or on location, getting energy from the people and space around me. I hope to do more windows and murals once we’re back to traveling again. I plan to one day build a proper artist space in the attic of a barn belonging to our country cottage. But right now there is barely a floor and no windows…which means it would be a huge undertaking. It would be so dreamy though, and perfect for working large scale. 3) what are your favorite materials I prefer to work with liquid material like inks and water colours and sometimes combining with bits of paper to create harder edges. I never want my work to look to wishy-washy or fluffy, but to keep some weight and edge. 4) what are your favorite subjects to draw People and faces, details of clothing, shoes, and plants…and food stuffs. 5)if you could see how one artist works from beginning to end, who would it be Matisse or Picasso maybe.   6) how do you get over a creative hump Chaining myself to the drawing table, but pimping it with chocolate and coffee. Whip and carrot!   7) what other art form would you like to try, or already do, and why Sculpture and clay. It si so rewarding with to create something three dimensional. That why I love to bake too, three dimensional and possible to eat. What’s not to love?   8) what book have you read recently, or what is your favorite book Normal People by Sally Rooney. Such a good book. Now there’s tv-series, but I am worried it’ll spoil the magic. Another book, or book series are My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. And yes, I’ve watched the tv-series too. If the tv-version is great the books are…brilliant!                 9)when you meet another creative, what are you most interested by in them If they are nice, smart and have a sense of humour. Like with all people. And I am plays curious what a normal day looks like in people’s lives. But I am as interested in knowing that regardless of profession, I find it fascinating.   10) if you were to collaborate with another artist living or dead, who would it be and what would you do with them Matisse, please! We could happily cut bits and bobs of paper, and I would mostly listen as my speaking French is not so good! I am sure he has some good stories. And I would love to see how he makes is choices. I believe creating art is most about making choices, adding or taking away, keeping or deleting. That’s why I value the analogue part of my work so much and there are endless opportunities to change once you’re at the computer and I am not sure that is always such a good thing.   11) if you could live in any era when would it be My childhood 70’s! But I’m not sure I would be able to take the sexism from any other era. I am very happy I am a woman living in 2020.                               12) if you could move anywhere and live comfortably/freely where would it be Someplace warm, where my feet would walk on warm terracotta tiles. So…Italy!   13) what is your ideal vacation Italy, with my family. Finding a house in the countryside with a pool to keep my three sons happy and entertained.   14) what do you do when you have to be home with nothing to do Bake, cook and plan for dinner with friends. How I miss having dinner with friends!!   15) what are three things you want to do within the next 5 years Go to Japan! I briefly lived in Tokyo when I was 18, working in a Mexican restaurant…I’ve been back twice since and I was going this March.   16) what is your favorite drink Coffee, elderberry juice, and oaky, rich red wine!   17) where is your favorite place to be around the location you live in I love my studio and my home, both in a very green area of Stockholm, with lots of cafes, wine bars, thrift shops and parks. I love the entire area so much. Great for raising kids and finding colourful thrift store blouses- and to have an outdoor cat, like we do! [caption id="attachment_4700" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Mäster Mikaels Gata , Stockholm Södermalm[/caption] 18) what is one job that you would do for free, even if it was hard and it took long A real collaboration with someone like Dries van Noten or Miuccia Prada.   19) if you were to teach a class, what would it be Figuredrawing or color.   20) what are some new skills you would like to learn I wish I could animate my drawing. Unfortunately I have no urge to learn. I don’t want more hours in front of the computer.   21) what is your favorite palette, please name at least 3 colors Bright pink, yellow and nude.   22) what is your favorite movie Wong Kar Wai’s In The Mood for Love. Every frame is a piece of art.                 23) what time of day are you most able to concentrate Usually right before I need to head back home. I am trying to make it first thing in the morning, and I am getting there. It would make sense as I am very much a morning person.   24) what time of day are you most relaxed After a good lunch work out I am relaxed but alert.   25) do you have a favorite distraction A common distraction is scrolling Instagram, but that is a habit I’d like to give up. Working out maybe. Chatting with my kids, or cooking.   27) what is one word of advice you would give yourself 10 years ago Enjoy it, it is not so serious. And be more like a man, and say yes to things even if unsure of how to  tackle it. Things work out, and your margins are exaggerated.   28) what is one thing about yourself that you hope wont change I really trust other people. I believe people want to be good and do good. Well, not Trump, but the rest. View Stina Persson's Portfolio  

Nina Chakrabarti made an illustration for the newly opened "ALBION PHILOSOPHY" NEWoMan Yokohama store! Based on the concept of "Let's go get Happy.", you can experience the philosophy of Albion's beauty in this store. Nina drew a plant that is actually researched and cultivated in Albion!   A wonderful event is being held, so please be safe and come to visit! Nina's colorful and fun illustration is here!

Bandai Namco and Fangamer has reached out to Mushbuh to create this vibrant Katamari Damacy poster, featuring everyone's favorite Prince of the Cosmos and a few of his cousins!

You can practically hear Katamari On The Swing emanating from this beautiful Fangamer exclusive.

Pick yours up today by clicking THIS LINK!

The TV commercial of SUNSTAR "Ora2 me" starts, in which Jeffrey Fulvimari's characters appear!! Jeffrey's characters Yui and Kei are happily co-starring with Mei Nagano as Ora2 Mate! Check it out here!

A new collaboration between popular characters and ASOKO and Ifuku kazuhiko arrivals! This time, Doraemon and Hello Kitty appear together!! Collaboration items range from kitchen accessories to pouches and masking tape. They have fun and colorful items. Please buy it at the nearby ASOKO store! Click here for a list of items. Here is a fun illustration full of humor of Ifuku Kazuhiko.

CWC "Artists Q & A" starts! The first artist is Marcus Oakley!   He answered a lot of questions about his favorite music, movies, and even sources of inspiration! I would like to get close to the secret of the playful illustrations of Marcus, who has worked on a wide range of book illustrations, product designs, advertisements, and packaging as a graphic artist. 1. How do you get over a creative hump? Spending time at home, I am constantly interacting with kitchen utensils and house hold objects. Often staring at the walls and all the plants and ornaments arranged around the home, absorbing the mundanity of the daily rituals day after day. Daydreaming ideas whilst cooking and cleaning, making tea and listening to music. Inspired by these thoughts I often draw all of the objects in my house in various arrangements. It reminds me that inspirational can be anywhere and everywhere. 2. What do you do when you have to be home with nothing to do? I always seem to have things to do! Making art, reading, cooking and gardening. I moved a few years ago to a house with a garden. slowly I am learning about how to grow flowers, plants and vegetables. 3. What are your favorite subjects to draw? Drawing everything and anything, continuously exploring and playing with the potential of the line. Thick lines, thin lines, zig zag, curved, straight, fast, slow, wonky, abstract and pictorial they all have there own special mood and melody. 4. What sort of music do you like? Music wise I listen to mostly music made in the 1970’s. I was born in the 1970s but its not a child hood nostalgia of that time I have. I'm interested in all the cultural activity I was just too young to know about. The decade was so rich and varied in Music, Film, Art, Fashion, Architecture, Furniture and Graphic Design. Generally It can be pretty smooth dudes like The Beach Boys, Doobie Brothers,The Pentangle, Steely Dan, Gerry Rafferty, James Taylor, Wings, 10cc, Fairport Convention, Jean Michel Jarre, Brian Protheroe and David essex. 5. What is your favorite drink? Tea! I drink so much tea, I have been drinking english tea since I was a child. Nothing better than a big pot of tea and perhaps a slice of fruit cake! 6. If you had unlimited resources, what would you create? It would radical to turn my drawings into huge objects and make a interactive sculpture park with a nice cafe. 7. Who are your favorite artists. The art that excites the most is the work made by people from hundreds and thousands of years ago by many cultures from all over the world. On my travels I have seen so many amazing and inspiring objects, particular favourites of mine are Greek Cycladic art, Norse artifacts, Japanese Dogu figures, Neolithic standing stones and Totem poles by the First Nations people of the Pacific Northwest Coast. 8. What is your favorite movie? I mostly watch movies from the 1970’s I love the honesty and grittiness of these films, they don’t make them like this anymore. Here are a few of my favorite’s Three Days of Condor / Sydney Pollack / 1975 The Wicker Man / Robin Hardy / 1973 Parallax View / Alan J Pakula / 1974 The Man on the Roof / Bo Widerberg / 1976 The Hired Hand / Peter Fonda / 1971 Le Cercle Rouge / Jean Pierre Melville / 1970 Phase IV / Saul Bass / 1974 3 Women / Robert Altman / 1977 Straight Time / Ulu Grosbard / 1978 Sorcerer / William Friedkin / 1977 Silent Running / Douglas Trumbull / 1972 Suspiria / Dario Argento / 1977 Saturday Night Fever / John Badham / 1977 Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia / Sam Peckinpah / 1974 The Passenger / Michelanelo Antonioni / 1975 The Gambler / Karel Reisz / 1974 Coma / Michael Crichton / 1978 Play Misty for Me / Clint Eastwood / 1971 The Last Detail / Hal Ashby / 1973 Serpico / Sidney Lumet / 1975 9. What is your ideal vacation? I love camping in Scotland, unfortunately recent trip’s over the last few years the weather has been really terrible! stuck in a tent with howling wind and rain is awful, so my ideal vacation would be eternal warm sunshine. 10. Where is your favorite place to be around the location you live in. I live in the historic town of Dunfermline and I there many places I love to visit. One of my favourite places is Cafe Giacomo, originally opened in the 1950’s the cafe still has it’s original interior, serving cups of tea, filled rolls, cakes and other Scottish delicacies. 11. What book have you read recently, or what is your favorite book? Usually I tend to read books that feature travel, nature and generally being outside in both fiction and non fiction. Here are a few of them: Travels With Charley / John Steinbeck / 1962 Clear Water Rising / Nicolas Crane / 1996 Wildwood / Roger Deakin / 2007 Robert Macfarlane / The Old Ways: A Journey On Foot / 2013 Everest the Hard Way / Chris Bonington / 1976 The Kingdom by the Sea / Paul Theroux / 1982 Kon-Tiki expedition / Thor Heyerdahl / 1948 Rings of Saturn / W.G.Sebald / 1995 The Lost Art of Walking / Geoff Nicholson / 2008 Monkey Wrench Gang / Edward Abbey / 1975 12. If you were to teach a class, what would it be For the last 20 years I have been very fortunate to be able to mentor, teach and run workshops. Since moving up to Scotland from London 6 years ago I have been working for a fantastic Art’s organization based in Edinburgh called Artlink. Set up in 1984 Artlink’s aim is increase creative opportunities those who experience disadvantage or disability in the East of Scotland. The work can be challenging at times but also life affirming, I have seen so much awesome, amazing, genuine and beautiful artwork. 13. What is your favorite meal? I really enjoy cooking and going out for meals. Often the simplest recipes are the best, currently my favorite meal is a slowly cooked Puttanesca sauce (tomatoes, onion, olive oil, anchovies, parsley and garlic) with pasta. 14. What is the one thing about yourself that you hope won’t change. Just to carry on living a creative life, working, thinking making, drawing and teaching.

Emily Eldridge designed this limited edition for Portugal's Espresso Coffee Machine Company "fiamma espresso"! This design expresses the pleasure, delicious taste and positive feeling that a cup of coffee brings ☕️ Please enjoy Emily's bold coloring and playful pop illustrations here! 60% of the project's revenue will go toward supporting art and culture. Check out the project as well! Click here for #ALL THE ARTISTS initiatives of fiamma espresso.

Samantha Hahn is working on an illustration for The New York Times "D.I.Y. at Home" series. This is a special feature on D.I.Y that prepares presents for loved ones who have not seen each other for a long time. This time, how to make a "SWEETHEART" T-shirt with embroidery. They also introduce tie-dye socks and capes made with blankets. Please try to make it at home time! You can read more on The New York Times here. Please check Samantha's beautiful watercolor art works here.

Lisa Glue made the main visual of "ONE DREAM" again this year! Starting from Hiroshima, the symbol of peace, "ONE DREAM" is an event to connect people of the world with music, dance, and art, and to expand a culture that recognizes all kinds of diversity.   This summer will be a more significant event than usual.   You can also see Lisa's illustration on the official website of "ONE DREAM". Check out the event details here.   Click here for Lisa's sustainability illustration and life style.

Coloring Sheet from CWC illustrators that make your #stayhome fun! Today I'm going to share you Emily's illustration! Please print it here, and play with it! EmilyEldridge_ColoringSheet   Please check the colorful and POP illustrations of Emily here!

Coloring Sheet from CWC illustrators that make your #stayhome fun! Today I'm going to share a coloring sheet from Berry!   Please save this image, print it and play with it!   If you print 2 sheets and cut along the line, you can play as nervous breakdown. Please check Berry's colorful and playful illustrations here!

Sarah Hankinson collaborated with Cadbury Australia to design a limited edition package! Sarah's beautiful watercolors look great on the package. Sarah's illustration, which is popular among women in Japan. Please check out the works from her page here!

From March 13 to April 18 (Extension until May 23), Huberty & Breyne is hosting a retrospective exhibition on the work of Dominique Corbasson. Through a selection of her works in acrylic and colored pencils, this exhibition invites us to travel with her in the urban landscapes that have welcomed and inspired her around the world, in particular the cities of Paris, London and from New York. Opening Thursday, March 12, 2020 from 6.30 p.m. See works here.  

Tifalia illustrated for Cocoonist summer collection. Her beautiful sunflower illustration is now available in all sorts of must have items. You can check out her items here: https://www.cocoonist.net/store/e/esunflower/

Berry Akutuglu is making a campaign illustration for Mother's Day in Anthropologie! "Strong As A Mother"A very cute dish towel is available on the website. Please check it out as a Mother's Day gift form here.

We will begin working from home for the time being. Please feel free to reach out to us using contact form or our email address. We will keep you up to date on our latest developments as they become available. [Contact] Agent Team, Crossworld Connections, Inc. contact@cwc.demopage.site

Stefania Tejada presents this new work in collaboration with Mexican Bag Brand Porta+Canda. This illustration was brought to you by "Artistic Playground" from togæther, a French art project agency that specializes in corporate art and brand campaigns, the goal of which is to make art and art creation accessible to everyone. Stefania's portrayal of a confident woman carrying a Porta+Canda bag comes naturally and beautifully, as are all of her most feminine works. Check her profile for more examples!

Kirsten Ulve Website: https://www.kirstenulve.com/shop    

Genie Liang will be contributing two designs to Menmeiz, a pop-up store in Harajuku Laforet starting March 26th (Thu) to March 31st (Tue) at 2F CONTAINER. The Chinese slang "menmeiz" is a term reserved for the cutest girls you can find. Menmeiz is about discovering cuteness that spans beyond borders, gender, or generations, the final goal of which is to create a Transboundary Cuteness. Find more information here about the pop-up.

LULU * has created an illustration of a column by Sarah Firshein about "travel" on The New York Times! You can read the column here. Please check out the illustration of LULU*, which is widely used in the advertisement of fashion brand and editorial design.

Lisa Grue has contributed visuals and a logo for Lille Løv, a kid's brand from Denmark! Lisa's thorough insight into natural living is very apparent in these beautiful illustrations! Her sustainable way of living is well documented in her Instagram. Click on the links below to check it out! Lisa Grue Instagram Lisa Grue -Summer will be back- Instagram

Skate and slap everything in sight in Mushbuh and friend Mason's Burrito Galaxy! Guac has lost her spaceship in a terrible crash and must find it's missing parts to go back home. Meet weirdos and cool guys along the way, slap meanies and skate ramps as well!! Sign up for updates at the Burrito Galaxy Official Website.

From March 13 to April 18, Huberty & Breyne is hosting a retrospective exhibition on the work of Dominique Corbasson. Through a selection of her works in acrylic and colored pencils, this exhibition invites us to travel with her in the urban landscapes that have welcomed and inspired her around the world, in particular the cities of Paris and London. and New York.

Marcus Oakley was featured in "It's Nice That", a creative platform that reach 2,000,000 people a month. This article features Marcus's black & white illustrations of the environments and places, both urban and rural, in London and Scotland that he has experienced in his life.

This year's election for president of the United States might be the most important election, ever. Washington Post movie critic, Ann Hornaday compiled a list of the best 34 political movies. Stephen Bliss illustrated the leading actor from each of these movies

Fujingahō is a women's pictorial magazine, very glossy on higher-than-usual paper and with many pages. Maiko Sembokuya is drawing illustrations for a health page series. This feature covers the healthy habits that will enable us all to live until we are 100 years-old!

Marcus Oakley was live at Apple Stores around the world on iPads. It was an interactive event where you could draw with Marcus!

Samantha Hahn in VOGUE JAPAN November issue, "Power of the Cell Awake!" Rejuvenate the cells in your body with the proper food, exercise, and lifestyle!

Laura Denton did the illustration for Clé de Peau Beauté in Vogue Japan. "It is your destiny to upgrade your lip color..." Using numerology, a lip color guide will help you choose what will help you upgrade your life!

Ifuku's collaboration with Asoko and popular licensed characters sells out every time! This collaboration is with ONE PIECE! On sale from 8/3 (Sat). From stationery to kitchen goods, bags and pouches, playing cards There are 94 fun items.

July 13, "Toy Story" goods by Tomoto will released by 3Coins! Party on with festive tableware! Goods from stationary to kitchen items!

Stina Persson collaborates with Portuguese accessory brand, "CLUOH"! Stina creates dynamic, colorful and beautiful work. They were dropped on scarves, t-shirts, pouches and scarves. Very nice! !

Tomoto's warm and gentle illustration graces the cover of Bennesse's "Children's Pocket English Challenge." This English language program utilizes toys, DVD video, and books to help children learn English.

Jenny Bowers has new a series from the April issue in the English learning information magazine “ENGLISH JOURNAL”! Jenny's columns have colorful and fun illustrations and come with ten simple questions help you speak on a range of topics!

The popular 3Coins Doraemon series from Tomoto is back! Last year, this series sold out almost immediately. This year there are 68 items of stationary, tableware, watches, earphones, and zakka. Some of them are below.

The popular Ifuku-ASOKO collaboration continues with Dragonball, dropping on Dec 15! These items sell out quickly, so get them while they're hot!

Zojirushi will release artist collaboration stainless steel thermoses with Lisa Glue and Nina Chakrabartti this spring!

"Happy Birthstone for you"-12 thoughts in birthstone- Masaki Ryo illustrated the birthstone campaign on the 4°C Canal website. He drew 12 women to match the image of each birthstone.