As I walk the trails of Leelanau County, camera slung across my body, hands free, all senses on task, I find the beauty that is captured through my lens. This becomes the first step in making Dancing Frog Press products.
The next step of the process is selecting what photos will work for the next self-appointed Dancing Frog Press product (or in some cases, a custom order).
I begin making the illustration, with the finished product in mind. This helps me compose the scene.
Next, I enhance the drawing with some pen-work and add shading. This just might be my favorite part! I enjoy the various drawing pencils, with the HB being my favorite.
Depending on the project at hand, I scan this finished illustration, then begin to add color. Sometimes I use water color paints, other times colored pencils. I am amazed every time at how dramatically different the piece looks upon finishing. I expect this change, obviously, but am thrilled every time I inspect the two completed pieces along side one another. Quite stunning!
Now, I put on my graphic designer hat and begin the layout process to bring the artwork to a finished product. Fortunately for me, my daughter Raquel Jackson is a gifted designer and we share studio space…she is very supportive and helpful when I need the occasional direction.
Finally, I send off digital files to my local printer. They work their magic and make lovely items for Dancing Frog Press…always with the goal in mind to: connect…give…love.
Slideshow demonstration of the Dancing Frog Process…
