Here's the process and inspiration for the series featured in December's up! Magazine by WestJet. Venessa Brewer art directed this truly fun series illustrating a writer's journey to Hawaii and her discovery of ukuleles and their history. I myself am trying, very slowly, to learn this instrument so I was pleased to accept this job. The first illustration shows a group of musicians enjoying the atmosphere of a ukulele-jam involving all sorts of different people (ukuleles do not segregate). The 2nd image is the opening spread and focuses on Hawaiian history & culture. They were all done by hand, first painted with acrylics and then inked.

Instead of capturing the kitchy 1950's version of Hawaii, which is of course fun in it's own right, I wanted to focus on more meaningful imagery. I tried to capture some insight into the importance of this little instrument and its strong connection to the people and history of Hawaii. I also wanted the paintings to feel like old folk songs, to feel dreamlike and sentimental. There's a lot that can billow out of such a little instrument.

See some more info and process about this painting on my blog. Also, the first image is up for sale in my Etsy shop as a giclée print. Love to hear any feedback. Thanks!

www.jacquioakley.com