This Spring, I was asked to create Sonny's Season 5 poster and menu. It's always a delight to work with them on illustrations. Maybe because I love drawing plants. I took the boys to Aksarben yesterday to enjoy the fresh outdoors and peek at the final menu in print. Sonny's is now open for its fifth season! I think it gets better every year.
Here's a peak at the commission process behind the scenes..
Some reference photos were provided to me for inspiration. The goal for the project was to capture the vibe of Sonny's. Big tropical plants, perennial flowers, community & of course refreshments.
Photos courtesy of Sonny's
I've always loved the tropical aesthetic at Sonny's. I wish it was around 10 years ago when I was attending UNO for my undergrad. The only place to hangout in Aksarben in 2013 was DJ's Dugout. Nothing against DJ's but it's great to enjoy an outdoor patio in Omaha. I'm also happy that there are NA drinks on the menu other than soda! I feel like I'm in Austin or Miami when I step foot here. It really doesn't feel like the Midwest. It's the equivalent of a vacation. Moms rarely get a vacation.
I came up with three comps for the menu.
Sonny's went with comp #3. I then painted a watercolor original, scanned & sent over the art file for the graphic designer to add the text.
The second part of the project was the Season 5 poster. The subject matter for the poster included Aksarben Run Club, Yoga, The Exchange, Salsa, Live Music, Ice Baths & Husker Watch Party. 
Comp for Season 5 illustration.
Beginning the watercolor original. Perhaps the best part in the process!
This was a very fun project for me. Taking commissions is rare for me these days. After teaching & coming home to care for my own kids, my freelance work comes last. Sometimes it means paint with one hand and hold the baby with the other. With Summer break around the corner I'm itching to have some studio time & start projects I've been dreaming up. You know what they say.. the three best things about teaching are.. June, July & August! Just kidding. I really do love my job!