Studio Update: A New Flock & Some Symmetry

I've been doodling these bird folks for weeks while thinking about an illustrated banner for Kate Designs. With a wink to Despiccable Me, I've come to think of the bird people as my minions. No worries. My flock isn't out to steal the moon. They're content to work for extra feathers. 

Meanwhile back in the world, two nice guys have bought a few acres up in Lake County, California. Their purchase isn't big, but three ravines cut through the land, so the owners have decided to call their property Trés Ravenna, a pretty name for a magical place. Their plan is to grow some small crops, plant a fruit grove, and distill a bottle or two of lavender oil in this new kingdom. And there is plenty of native oak moss—a lovely scent used in perfumes.

The guys have asked for a design that can be used as large as a gate sign and as small as a cologne label. It can be done! I took my camera along to the property.  

Trés Ravenna has a marsh area banked by native Blue Oak groves. This little slice of heaven was made even more heavenly by the large goblet of ice tea my hosts served me on their wrap-around porch. The drink was garnished with a sprig of lavender from their garden. I sat in the porch swing and felt like a princess!

Back in the studio I drew a rough mark incorporating elements from the woodlands and marsh. The clients love the dragon flies that patrol the reeds. I added one to the design for good luck. 

Everyone liked the first pass, but I had a nagging feeling that something wasn't right, even though I had met their expectations. Sometimes the best solution remains elusive until you're given a chance to step back. Suddenly I knew just what to do.

On the second round I mirrored the reedy R and doubled the oak leaf for symmetry. While I was in the file I also took a look at color. Blue Oak moss has a beautiful range of soft greens. I choose one and applied it. The result is below. I think it's right handsome, fit for a label and a gate.

Next week, we'll look at stationary for this woodland kingdom and I'll show you how I sampled that moss for color.

 P.S. I love comments. To make a comment here, click on the Post a Comment link below, but be aware that the Submit button—labeled Create Post—sits at the top of the comments page along with a Preview Post button. Why is that? I don't know…but no amount of begging has moved that button any closer.

Comments

[Mandy]

You're right - the symmetrical design is better. Especially for a gate. The color really matches Lake County. Nice job!

[Kate]

Thank you, Ms. Mandy! I do love that color. I want to keep this logo for myself!

[Merry]

oooooh! I love this logo. It's awesome!