in process: leah duncan

We’re big fans of Leah Ducan, an illustrator, printmaker and textile designer who makes the kind of work that you just simply want in your life. Prints, calendars, pillows, tea-towels and scarves – her drawings are a sweet balance of effortlessness and intentional marks. Leah was kind enough to give us some snapshots from her studio of her works in process, and a bit of insight into how she makes her collection come to life.

The city I live in (Austin) and the environment I’m surrounded by are absolutely represented in my design. I’m inspired by the world around me every single day, from a walk in the park to the vibrant colors in the architecture of my neighborhood. It’s impossible to not be constantly absorbing inspiration.

My favorite part of the design process is always color. It’s easily what I’m best at and that’s probably why I enjoy it so much because my sense of color has always been natural.

My design process is inspired, eager, and when things work as planned – accomplished.

I would describe my aesthetic as organic, delicate, and unexpected.

This wall calendar she created is perfect, don’t you think? 12 months of illustrations – all packaged to perfection in her printed kraft wrap.  A great simple gift I’d say…

Leah’s new fabrics had just arrived when she took these photos for us. She’ll use the prints she designed below for her collection of scarves and pillows, and she’ll be selling some of her yardage as well. I love how her design hand translates naturally between painting and textiles.

My favorite color combination is yellow with everything. There are so many amazing shades of it and it brightens up any palette.

My dreams are unfolding in front of me every single day. I’m very luck to be able to make a living doing something that is my livelihood. I don’t know where I would be or what I would be doing if it weren’t this.

Thanks to Leah for these great pics of her process!