My Studio

Here's a mini tour of my studio :)  It has two work tables, a computer desk, a closet, and a beautiful window that looks out to our garden. (Update: see my new studio since 2013 here)

I designed this quilt on the wall above my drawing table. The rainbow colors and spiral is a symbol of the beauty of life and growth.

Here's the view out my window! The lilac tree is in bloom, and our vegetable garden (in back by the fence) is beginning to sprout. It's inspiring to see everything grow, and change through the seasons.

Right now in my studio, I'm excited to be working on a new piece, 'Soulmates'.  Here's my first sketch on canvas for this piece. It's all about eternal love, balance, and spirit connection. A yin-yang is in the center of the heart to symbolize balance. They emerge from a magnolia tree, with its large blooms. A wild rose bush grows at the bottom of the tree. Birds flutter by a double rainbow in the clouds :)

Kuan Yin Spirit

Kuan Yin Spirit ©2011

Just completed this beautiful new painting, 'Kuan Yin Spirit', honoring Kuan Yin, Buddhist Bodhisattva of Compassion. Her ten arms represent the thousand arms she is said to have, that help the world. A pink light of love radiates from her center. Purples and blues represent spirit and peace. I used beads and charms to add detail, and it shimmers softly in the light. The garden that unfolds before her, shows her beauty and grace. May your day be filled with peace, love and kindness!

Cabin and Coyotes

I've been working on a lot of crafts lately, inspired by cabins, nature and the simple life. I'm almost finished with this cabin cross stitch- I altered a pattern I found based on an old sampler.  Then, I've started a crochet sunburst square blanket in earth tones and forest colors. 55 squares total will make the blanket, only 46 left to go! It will be so warm and cozy, I can't wait until it's done.

These same inspirations are behind my recent painting, Coyotes Under the Moon. Here in Portland, coyotes live in the forested areas, by creeks and they often wander out at night. The evergreens majestically surround the city and there are lots of trails and wildlife. We enjoy going on a lot of hikes in the woods and in parks with our dogs. One time I was on a wooded trail near dusk, a coyote came running up the path and stopped about 6 feet away, wagging his tail. My dog wanted to play with him, then it was time to turn back the other way. My painting is about this spirit of playfulness in the woods and the mist :)

Coyotes Under the Moon © 2011

The Garden

I'm excited it's finally time to get the garden started this year. We have a large plot in our backyard and we'll be growing lots of herbs and vegetables. Hard work digging up a lot of weeds as a first step (those are the piles you see). It's like holding a blank canvas and then watching things you create come to life. Inspiring! My painting Transformation (below), is all about this time of year. I would love to hear about your garden, too. I'll post more pics of the garden as the season goes on. Happy planting!

Transformation © 2011

Spring Home

I love the spring time with all the flowering plants and trees- so full of beauty, hope and new possibility.  Here at my house, I feel this energy stirring. I live in a small folk art/country-style house (sometimes I call it the cabin) with my wonderful boyfriend, and our animal friends: 2  dogs, 2 cats, and snake too. The trees are blossoming in the yard. I like to look out for robins dancing in the grass :) In the pic, is my cat Jorellis who always finds a charming way to get into what I'm doing. And that's my dog, Phantom under the table. I like all kinds of art and crafts, and I often get into sewing and crafts projects, which end up inspiring my paintings too. In spring spirit, I recently finished these delightful tropical quilt flowers and ribbon roses. I used the traditional pattern of grandmother's flower garden with bright fabrics, and floral centers inspired by our recent trip to Puerto Rico! I ended up making 2 sofa pillows with these, using batik prints for the background.

Right now I'm starting to work on a new mixed media painting, Kuan Yin Spirit. It's a small piece, in white, pastel blues, violet and pinks with ribbon roses. Will post pics soon! Also, I'm excited my new website is now up, check it out! www.robin-phillips.com

Mission and Vision

Healing © Robin Phillips Studio

give • love • inspire • cherish

I believe in making life special....

...... through the power of positive imagery, uplifting words and helping one another.

....through embracing spirit and cherishing the special moments in every day.

......through living a joyful life that is rich with possibility.

......through encouraging others and spreading joy, love, hope and beauty in life.

Art and words connect us all.

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Welcome to my blog and thanks for visiting! My art/design studio serves creative small businesses, non-profit organizations, publishers, marketing/design agencies, art galleries and gift shops, interior designers, art collectors, and manufacturers in the craft, sewing, children's and gift industries.

• Inspirational imagery, branding and design services to promote your unique business or organization's mission: custom websites, business cards, ads, brochures, logos, invitations/cards, copywriting and more

• Whimsical illustration and surface design for licensing/publishing in the craft, children's and inspirational gift markets

• Original inspirational paintings, prints and gifts for home or office decor (retail/wholesale/commissions)

• Unique arts/crafts patterns and printables for the paper, sewing and home decor markets (retail/wholesale)

• Article and content writing for arts, crafts, design, home and garden publishers

Looking for an artist or designer? I'd love to meet you. Connect with me.

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About Me/Background...

- I spent my early years in the Midwest, but I now call beautiful Portland, Oregon home.
 And I love capturing beautiful scenes on camera!

-I'm a passionate nature and animal lover. My family includes five pets, many of them rescues...

-BFA in Art and minor in Psychology. No wonder I surround myself and others with inspiring, joyful and whimsical images, books and messages :)

-In 1998, I began my art career by exhibiting at art fairs, shops and galleries. Since then, I've exhibited professionally in over 50 shows and galleries.
  
-For 12 years, I worked in corporate and non-profit marketing departments as a graphic and web designer before launching Robin Phillips Studio full time. During this time I honed my skills in marketing, branding and design. 

-In addition to art and digital design, I have a lifelong love for fiber arts and sewing.
Now I create printable designs and patterns for the crafts market too!

Learn more about my studio at www.robinphillipsstudio.com!
Visit the shop at www.robinphillipsstudio.com/store