The Corona crisis highlights once again how vulnerable the incomes of artists are. Right at a time when we see people appreciating art in the form of music, Netflix, books and cooking during quarantaine times.
We should nourish and protect art, since it can be so consoling during confusing times like these, and in general for a joyful life.That is why we’re over the moon to collaborate with five up and coming illustrators. These talents worked on a project titled ‘Hope in 2020’ and came up with amazing designs – that we’ve turned in a special Limited Edition Leafbook!
Another extra: by buying these books you directly support the illustrators in continuing on their creative journeys, creating works of art to console, inspire and delight us. Because together, we’ll make it through this.
Are you ready for the designs?
StudioSilvana
“In times like these, a little hope is something we all need. For this notebook I decided to translate one of my favorite quotes regarding this topic (when the sun goes down, the stars come out) to an illustration.
People always say my work tends to match my personality; I try to see the positive side of things, even when everything else seems dark. That’s something that I really aimed to reflect in this illustration, to hopefully radiate some of that on to you! So just try to remember, that even when you feel like you’re in the dark, there will always be stars above you.”
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You can find Silvana’s portfolio here, and you can follow her on Instagram (@studiosilvana).
Cee Burgundy
“There’s an element of repetition in the design, but none of the curves are the same, I like the idea of being the same and different simultaneously. The drawing on the notebook was made in a single gesture, the composition arose in the moment, because I most enjoy drawing when I’m not focused on the outcome.”
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You can find Cee’s portfolio here, and you can follow them on Instagram (@cee_burgundy).
ninamaakt
“Our homes mean so much to us these days. Partly because we need to stay in, but also because our homes can bring a sense of comfort and peace, which is very welcome now. So that’s what I drew: colourful houses that serve as a safe space.
Implicitly, my work is almost always about hope. About glimpses of beauty, goodness and light, even when life feels dark.
For this cover I wanted to make something playful, not too polished, not too much of ‘how it should be’. I think it fits these months, now everything feels a bit improvised and we’re forced to think out of our nice and neat boxes.”
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You can find Nina’s portfolio here, and you can follow her on Instagram (@ninamaakt).
Diddyeltouny
“What gives us hope and how would we symbolize hope? I have collected the answers to these questions, into 1 concept: Spring. The design represents spring, no matter how heavy and cold the winter is, the flowers will rise above the ground in full bloom.
There’s also a clear link with Islamic culture and religion, which inspires me a lot and gives me hope. I’ve used elements from Islamic geometry and combined this with cheerful bright colors and pastel. I identify myself as a Muslim woman and the colors I use match my distinct personality. On the back of the Leafbook is the word “Amal” which in Arabic means “hope”.”
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You can follow Rhaida on Youtube and on Instagram (@diddyeltouny).
Menah
“The characters in my design are doing okay with social distancing. But I guess my hope is that soon, we can all be in the street together again, while staying healthy and safe.
My phone is always full of pictures of people I see in the street (sorry for all of your privacy). I love drawing the people around me. All of the characters you see in my design for the Leafbook, are in one way or another inspired by real people I’ve encountered. Whether they were passing by, I follow them on instagram, or know them personally. I’ve just added a taco or a well-dressed dog here and there. And in case you’re wondering: I really saw an old lady walking around carrying a yoga mat once!”
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You can find Menah’s portfolio here, and you can follow her on Instagram (@menahmenahmenah).
