A World of Possibilities

Of what are sweet dreams really made? For one, it might be the exploration of some enchanted land across the sea; for another, the discovery of flying ability, or the challenge of a four-story chocolate cake paired with a suddenly bottomless stomach. For Tanya Newbery, dreams are the playscape of narwhals, crescent moons, and kids in their pajamas. These, in turn, are part of a larger gallery that echoes the color schemes and and conceptual stylings of You Belong Here and We Arrrrr Friends, but also draws in complementary characters such as the oft-appearing Bethezda the Cat (most endearing, perhaps, when assisting elephants with their balance as in
Tremendous Help of a Paisley Pachyderm), and assorted rascals such as the ebullient, dancing Winter Bunny. Newbery covers a wide range of themes, from the charm of I Bring Only This to the mystical power of Prince of Owls, but is consistent in her focus on the imagination of children, reminding us poignantly that we adults tend to underestimate the reach of that power.

It's ironic, really: While Newbery's serial art pieces seems tailor-made for children's theme rooms, what the Utah-based illustrator seems to capture most effectively is the idea that in a child's mind anything is possible, and that the only thread holding the world together is the magic that keeps us connected with the tensile strength of a single wish. What, then, does one do with such a diverse collection of prints, brooches, and other media? One idea would be to enter today's giveaway. The lucky winner of this drawing will receive a Tiarrrghed Print to add to their collection. To qualify, visit Gumball Grenade Illustrations, then come back here to tell us about your favorite print in Tanya's collection. Tell us in a second post if you subscribe to Wishing Willow, since our subscribers receive an extra entry in the contest. To post without a Google account, just click “anonymous.” Be sure to also leave your email address. The winner will be chosen randomly. Contest ends 2/3/09.

We have a winner! Katherine said, "Wow! I love this art...it is gorgeous! My favorite is: I Bring Only This Red Pajama...amazing!I do not have children (still searching for that Mr. Right) but I have always planned a "Nieces & Nephew Room" in the house I want to own...I would love for this to be part of the decor." Congrats!