When I start a new creative project, I begin by trying to get a SENSE of what the work is. What is the energy of the people who work at this organization? How do I feel when I get out of a meeting with them? What kind of change are they making in the world? How are they changing people’s lives? I often find a playlist that embodies the answers to these questions. I’ll listen to the music and let my mind explore the internet visually (Pinterest, Behance, Google Images). I grab anything that captures my attention. This is a very right-brained activity and I love to feel connected to my clients, their work and THEIR clients.

Today, to give you a feel for ME, I thought I’d go around my own home and capture some images that show you what inspire me.

First up is a “map” that I made with my daughter when she was three. It hangs in my bedroom. We walked around the house and yard making rubbings with crayons of the textures of our home. I love different ways of looking at the world, and I love co-creating with people (especially children).

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Next is a roll of toilet paper. I’m obsessed with the company Who Gives a Crap. I have a subscription and when the toilet paper arrives, it’s wrapped in art. Each roll has a different design and even though this seems like a ridiculous splurge, it brings me untold joy. I’m a believer that art and beauty can enhance any experience.

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Below is little piece of art I made years ago, and I have it hanging not only because I like it, but because it’s a good reminder of the power of constraints. The rules here were: make art with only straight red lines. The rules sound strict but there’s so much room for play within them. Constraint is the constant, beautiful challenge of my work.

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Finally, here are a deck of inspirational cards, Inquire Within. I read these cards when I get stuck. I love the format of discovering inspiration in what seems to be random and coincidental. I find these cards to be just the thing – and they are beautifully designed.

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