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I tweeted this a couple of weeks ago from Paris. In case you missed it, I thought I would also post it here and explain to you why this particular video means so much to me.

You see, not only is Sandra’s story of her life as an artist incredibly inspiring, but Boynton illustrations were my all time favorite when I was growing up. I absolutely loved her art. I collected it all from cards, to books, to magnets to wrapping paper, even a stuffed animal. You name it, if it Sandra Boynton illustrated it, I had it. 

I had almost forgotten that Sandra’s work was an early influence, just like I almost forgot that becoming an artist was what I was meant to do. 

It’s always been there, it just always has. It just took a little longer to realize than I thought, but I am here now. 

I am here.

When I saw this recent interview with Sandra, I understood. I finally understood why I was drawn to the straightforward, genuine honesty and humor that exists in her adorable characters. And I also had, what do you call it? a lightbulb moment? an aha moment? of realizing that being a fan of her art was, maybe one of the very first seeds planted that has now grown into my own group of characters, that I love just the same.

Best parts of this interview "It never occurred to me that they weren’t going to sell" ~ to my artists out there: what if? what if?! you thought this way?

I also can’t believe, and am completely inspired by the fact that she built and runs this entire art empire by herself. 

"I guess ideally, that I would like to add to people’s sense that there is good in the world" ~ Sandra Boynton

one of the very same reasons I create the art that I do.