Another Strook with something I've read, drawn, and listened to.

Reading

Luis Mendo is a Spanish illustrator who currently lives in Japan. In the Netherlands, he was art director of Bright Magazine, among other things, but 15 years ago he decided to focus entirely on illustration work. You may know his work from his book designs for Craig Mod (see Strook #5) and illustration work for The Guardian, De Volkskrant, and Wired. Encouraged by Craig Mod, he also started a membership program that allows fans to support him in creating whatever he wants. He compiled his first year's work in Mundo Mendo Book One.

Book One reads like a diary, the best of a blog, and above all, a delightful expression of creativity without compromise. He writes and illustrates about his move from Tokyo, what his life and workplace look like, and his love of books and print. And he does it all with his beautiful drawing style.

Mendo's book is a beautiful reminder: create what you want to create and tell your own story. Even in a world full of distractions and AI, it finds its audience.

Drawing

The everyday life in Mundo Mendo reminded me of the drawings I made of my children's first year at school. Every Sunday, I drew what their week looked like and laid it out at breakfast. Always in the theme of what was on their minds. The result was a beautiful record of the imaginative life of a toddler.

Since the dot work of my natural history illustrations sometimes demands a lot of my energy and attention, it might be nice to take up this freer form again.

Listening

Drizzle, cloudy skies, and short days. Fortunately, there is the dreamy music of Billie Marten.

See you next week!