Melinda Beavers - Van Vleck Gardens

Today, Melinda Beavers sent me the back story and teaser shot of her blank book illustration. I can't wait to see the complete sketch.

The title of her piece is: "In the Garden"



Melinda writes:

"Van Vleck Gardens in Montclair. I chose this setting as the subject of my contribution. Being only 2 blocks from my apartment, I have walked here many times. It is open to the public daily all year round. Peaceful, serene, and incredibly inspiring, it reminds me of all the hidden treasures Montclair has to offer, as well as it’s incredible appreciation for the arts and culture. This project has actually been a great way for me to look at my time here and reminisce as I say goodbye to Montclair. I will be moving to New Mexico next month, I hope my new home is as diverse and extraordinary as Montclair has been. "

Yesterday afternoon Melinda personally passed the SFG Blank Book on to Adam Levine in an appropriate setting called "40 Flavors." The above shot is a reflection of the meeting in the window of the 40 Flavors ice cream shop. Pictured from left to righ: Kat (Adam’s girlfriend), Melinda, and Adam, appreciating some Sugar Frosted Goodness.


Apparently during the meeting, some of the Sugar Frosted Goodness was caught trying to escape the box. It looks like the meeting between Melinda and Adam was a lot of fun.

Adam Levine now has the blank book and has informed me that he will be handing the book off personally to Jim Bradshaw.

Michelle Lana - King Street

This afternoon, Michelle Lana sent me the back story and teaser shot of her blank book illustration. I have to say, "it has me intrigued."

The title of her piece is: "Historic Streets of Old Town Alexandria: King St."


Michelle writes:

"What captured and inspired me the most are the streets of Old Town Alexandria. The charming cobblestone pavements, colonial houses and churches, museums, shops and restaurants are all nestled among many wonderful musuems and historic landmarks.

There are many sights to see such as the Gadsby Tavern and museum where George Washington celebrated birthdays, old buildings turned into cute little shops and small boutiques where you will see artists and works for sale. The shops and buildings are adorable - there really is something for everyone here!!"

The SFG Blank Book is now on it's way to Melinda Beavers in New Jersey. Michelle informed me she took the above shot of the box in her car on the way to ship it out, and that the book was shipped today at 12:50 p.m.

Be on the look out Melinda! The SFG Blank Book is on it's way!

The Book is Launched

Today the SFG Blank Book got it's launch and has started the trek with Michelle Lana, the second illustrator on the list.


I was fortunate enough to work close enough to Michelle to make arrangements for the both of us to meet for lunch rather than shipping the box across town. We both agreed to meet on August 10th, which would have been the scheduled arrival date for her to receive the book had I have shipped it.

In my haste to making lunch arrangements, I didn't ask Michelle what she looked like or what she would be wearing, so I awkwardly walked into a very busy Panera Bakery expecting to get lost in the Friday lunchtime crowd. Michelle recognized me right off and called my name from across the crowded room. I guess I was the only guy carrying a big cardboard box and that gave me away. I'm sure it wasn't my devilishly good looks.


Michelle was stoked! I could see the excitement immediately as she stared at the cardboard box I had under my arm. I decided rather than making her go through the torture of having to wait, I would open the box and show her the book before we ordered our food. We both went over the shipping list and I explained what the vellum in the bottom of the box was for (the vellum is to place between the pages to protect your work).

Michelle had many questions and through her questions I hope to shed further light on this project:

1. What can I draw?
You may draw anything you want. A person, place, or thing, as long as it is significant to your geographic location.

2. Do I have to draw something from my present town?"
No, you may draw something from your state, or a large city that is close by that gives a feel for where you live. You could illustrate an historical event, like a guy in your town that invented the egg beater.

3. Do I have to express ship the box?
No, you may send it to the next recipient using ground shipping.

4. Where should I take a picture of myself with the box?
I would recomment an interesting landmark or place that reflects the flavor of where you live. Once you have these pictures, send them to Jeff or myself with an interesting story so I can post them to the this site.


After we talked and ate our lunch, Michelle and I have agreed to meet again and hang out down in Old Town Alexandria. This time I'm taking my wife along. She loves a restaurant down there call Bull Feathers. I think the advantage of meeting in person offers a great opportunity to start a new friendship and to meet the person behind the illustration. I look forward to building a lasting freindship with Michelle and I also look forward to meeting many other SFG illustrators in the future.

Steph Doyle - Fritchie House

When I decided to do my sketch for the SFG Blank Book Project, I first planned an exploration of the history in my present home town of Frederick, Maryland. The town was here during the founding of the nation and was called home by many historically famous people.

Francis Scott Key, the composer of the National Anthem, was born and buried here. Thomas Johnson, the first Govenor of Maryland, was born and buried here. But I wanted to highlight a person that didn't fit the typical stereotype of a local hero or legend. I wanted to cover someone that was different.


Above is a small section of my illustration. This window was the place where 96 year-old Barbara Fritchie hung out in September, 1862, waving the Stars and Strips in defiance of Stonewall Jackson's troops as they marched through town. Legend has it that she touched the General's heart with her words and was spared due to her incredible devotion to her country.