The greeting cards and note pads were made exclusively as holiday gifts starting in 1979 and 1992 respectively. The initial recipients were teachers and family. My son and daughter also illustrated the note pads, making this a fun family project.
The Leelanau Love ~ Color on Art Book was created in the winter of 2015, and offered to the public in the following summer. I embraced the challenge to illustrate, publish and market this body of work. It is the type of pursuit that makes me feel most alive! As I dug deep to write a note to the recipients of the book (in-lieu of a dedication), I realized that I have pursued creative giving my whole life.
As a creative & idealistic soul, I did the most honest, loving and courageous thing that I have ever experienced by transforming this lifelong activity into a business.
Sharing my artistic gift since becoming an entrepreneur has taught me a great deal about life…vulnerability, strength, grit and fearless determination.
See the longer version here