#bee johnson

[bibliolectors]

Así he pasado el fin de semana... pura delicia de relax lector (ilustración de Bee Johnson)

[fyblackwomenart]

Artist: Bee Johnson

[perrier]

"Creating poster ads for District Perrier was such a trip"

Illustrator bee-johnson talks art, inspiration, and District Perrier

Enter District Perrier Now

[perrier]

Behind the District Dispatch: How Coffee and Caroll Cloar Inspired Artist Bee Johnson

If you've been on our Tumblr lately, you've probably seen artist Bee Johnson's cool ads adorning the site. From snake charmers to old fashioned newspapers, Johnson has brought District Perrier's quirky world to life with her illustrations. We talked to artist to find out more about her creative process, what music she listens to while drawing, and where she goes to seek out inspiration. 

You created some interesting ads for District Perrier. What did you want them to embody/symbolize?

Bee Johnson: Creating poster ads for District Perrier has been such a trip! From funky hat feathers to snake charming services, the concepts are always quirky and mysterious. I wanted my illustrations to have a similar edge—and, of course, a sense of humor. The visuals and type are inspired by vintage poster design.

Going from blank slate to a full illustration, what’s your process?

It starts with a sketch. Well, a cup of coffee, a little Googling, and then a sketch. This step is the hardest and the most important. I try to draw every idea I have, good and bad. I think it's easier to see what's working when you try out more than one idea. Once I feel like my drawing is hitting the sweet spot of concept, composition, and style, I send it over to the art director for approval. From there, it's another cup of coffee and loads of experimentation with color, texture, and patterning to bring the final to life.

What music did you listen to while creating the illustrations for District Perrier?

I've been really into Leon Bridges lately. This was definitely looping while I worked.

Which one of your works is your favorite so far this year? 

This is a personal piece I did one night after work, and it's a favorite because it's just pure play and experimentation. It's nice to take a break sometimes and get this stuff out of your system. 

Where do you get visual inspiration?

Pretty much anything is fair game for inspiration in my book. Most recently, I've been inspired by Caroll Cloar, Milton Avery and the collaborations between Issey Miyake and Irving Penn. They're all masters of shape and color in different ways.

[perrier]

The Finest Feathers in the District

Because your hat is where size REALLY matters... 

Step Inside Now

[itrainnyc]

The new childhood.

[itrainnyc]

Ride and resolve. Happy New Year!

[itrainnyc]

Hoop dreams on the D.