Chances are you’ve come across artist Andrew Bannecker’s work before. His charming and emotive illustrations are often used by companies such as the Gap, Google, Neiman Marcus, Nike, Starbucks, Target and Volkswagen. But it’s not because of his celebrated status as one of the world’s top illustrators that I picked Andrew’s work for June’s Curated, Sweden With Love’s monthly art show. It’s because of the way his art makes me feel: joyful, happy and a little bit childish.
Andrew works out of his studio in Washington, D.C., where he keeps a colorful collection of old paraphernalia. He favors objects made of wood and metal, and his interests range from toy rocket ships to vintage signs. His pens are stacked in a mug decorated with mustaches in different shapes, and in front of his computer screen sits a row of quirky porcelain figurines.
The results are illustrations with a slightly nostalgic feel, imbued with details, lush color and story-telling. Looking at Andrew’s drawings, you can’t help but let your imagination run amok. Who lives in that little house on top of the hill? Who is the funny guy with the mustache looking at his own statue? And where can I see the world’s tiniest fire breather — 28 inches of fiery fury — and her cat?
Andrew’s work brings back the twinkle-in-the-eye that we tend to lose in the midst of our daily musts. It’s a wonderful way to start our week. Happy Monday!
On July 1, Crate & Barrel is celebrating Andrew’s talent by releasing a limited edition Arzberg teapot numbered and signed by the artist. For the project, he created a fun, new character called Mr. Fox. To see more of Andrew’s work, please visit his website and follow him on twitter at @andrewbannecker.
