tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41526787096598033992012-01-10T15:26:57.424-05:00Pictures and Writing on Traveling, Eating, and Design.Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.comBlogger1901100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-71218429437013903562011-11-02T14:53:00.005-04:002011-11-02T15:03:17.157-04:00

I came across these photos from about a year ago that I never posted. I really liked them and miss the soft southern light that we used to get in our old apartment.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-74647802078319124162011-11-01T09:42:00.004-04:002011-11-01T09:52:07.731-04:00

Between the paintings below and these beautiful window panes, I hardly even noticed the furniture in the interior design store. I love the foggy glass and the varying density that the different variaties that the ivy created.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-53057016095430299862011-11-01T09:27:00.005-04:002011-11-01T09:42:12.714-04:00

I never know when or where I see something that I get really excited about. This weekend while looking at kitchen appliances, Oskar and I stopped in at a home interior shop. The furniture was lovely, but it was these paintings that really had me going. They made me want to return to my inner kindergartener and take up finger painting. The paintings actually reminded me alot of the aboriginal

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-1394941175382489252011-10-31T16:16:00.003-04:002011-10-31T16:26:52.335-04:00

Just a few snapshots around TO. 1. A neon green bike spotted in front of Honest Ed's a few weeks ago, already it's been disassembled. I wonder if it was worth anything.2. A bald man with octopus hair that I almost stepped on my way to Oskar's office.3. A series of little boy's room art that I saw and loved at an open house.4. Some layered paper and graffiti in front of a building from my old

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-69664485793292464782011-10-31T14:58:00.003-04:002011-10-31T15:13:00.447-04:00

With the impending deadline of baby looming. Oskar and I have been trying to do everything under the sun that our friends told us we won't have time, energy, nor money to do post-baby. So we went to the Mumford & Sons concert at the ACC. I had no idea how popular they were. I'd only heard them on CBC Radio 2 a handful of times. They sold out the ACC! Good for them and they were awesome live.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-24524969397137110192011-10-31T14:17:00.004-04:002011-10-31T14:57:58.925-04:00

I love my iphone. I've pretty much left my camera to collect dust and use my iphone camera for everything. It's so handy, and of course always with me. Plus, in between taking pictures I get to play words with friends. It was fun to walk around the birch aquarium and see all the neon coloured under water creatures. Oskar's favourites were the sea horses. I thought the shark cases with eggs

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-69259175431104199852011-10-31T14:10:00.003-04:002011-10-31T14:17:25.906-04:00

One of the major treats on my vacation was going to the Getty, outside of LA. Considering we paid 10-20 dollars per person to go to galleries and small museums along our way, I was floored when we had to only pay 10 dollars for our parking at the Getty. We then got treated to a ride up the mountain side, with stunning views, and got let off at the amazing delight of the architectural beauty

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-28175708254504448952011-10-31T14:04:00.003-04:002011-10-31T14:18:47.467-04:00

My favourite by far are the 2 nights we spent in Manhattan Beach. Great food, really active yet laid back people(which I was not expecting from LA, at all), and a boardwalk that extended for more than 25 miles (which we took full advantage on with our hotel bikes). I think Oskar said he left his wallet in El Segundo 50 times.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-72839096558513035012011-10-31T13:54:00.003-04:002011-10-31T14:04:06.174-04:00

To celebrate our last few weeks together as a couple, Oskar and I headed west to Southern California. Hoping to extend our summer, but it ended up be cooler weather in Cali then Toronto thanks to the tropical storm off the coast. We flew into San Diego and then made our way very slowly up to LA. I didn't want to be too ambitious with our vacation plans since I was 35 weeks at the time.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-37634849028514847222011-07-07T10:29:00.005-04:002011-07-08T13:35:37.571-04:00

The other night, while Oskar was at a Stag, (or as I affectionately have nick named Stag-O-Weener) I made some new collages. There final destination is Etsy, but I just have to set up a shop now. See how this backwards process forces me to work more.Anyway, I think they are cute and perfect for a baby's nursery. I would keep a few for myself, but I already have plenty of artwork to choose

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-71908852278890630162011-07-05T09:26:00.003-04:002011-07-05T09:31:43.526-04:00

Well, that's how it felt anyway. In the middle of summer I was lucky enough to get Toronto Island to myself. I guess the fact that it was a cool, foggy, weekday did help. But it was a bit creepy when I didn't run into another soul on my 2 hour walk. After walking for a while I laid down on bench on the boardwalk and took a nap. When I woke up and looked over on the ground I found this

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-85845419757953411962011-06-12T16:36:00.003-04:002011-06-12T16:44:15.142-04:00

I went to Royal Canadian Yacht Club, over on Toronto Island the other evening. When I arrived on the dock it was warm and sunny. I was doodling on a bench when I felt the wind really pick up and saw a big storm front coming in. All the boats started racing for shore, the sky and water turned dark and bursts of lightning began to dance over the city skyline. It was quite a show!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-89761040031905407762011-06-12T16:23:00.006-04:002011-06-12T16:36:35.627-04:00

So many adorable cottages on Toronto Island. It's so green, lush, and best seen from bicycle. There is such a demand to live on the island that the owners are chosen by lottery! Just a ferry ride from Toronto, I say sign me up.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-352625705558823922011-06-05T10:53:00.003-04:002011-06-05T11:00:56.594-04:00

Was so cool! My first time to the park, but definitely not the last.My favourite section was the water feature with lounge chairs where visitors were invited to cool down by dipping their toes into running water. How beautiful are those sculptural benches?

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-14689685476161740682011-06-05T10:49:00.003-04:002011-06-05T10:53:09.481-04:00

and sausages with 2 types of mustard were served at the German Beer Garden underneath the High Line Park in New York. Such a cool spot. They had ping pong tables, authentically dressed servers, and hello, pretzels as big as my head. An awesome addition to the neighbourhood.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-41788161720173497462011-06-05T10:47:00.001-04:002011-06-05T10:49:06.748-04:00

Just some graffiti that could my eye while passing. Such a haunting image.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-63891265492227666872011-06-05T10:43:00.003-04:002011-06-05T10:47:26.586-04:00

Nothing could be better then walking around Central Park on a sunny day while everyone else is at work. I got to blow some giant bubbles and Oskar got to chase ducks with a remote control sailboat. I love New York. Yes, a sentiment shared by many, but that doesn't make it any less true.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-42449068362768526062011-06-05T10:35:00.004-04:002011-06-05T10:43:20.073-04:00

While in New York I definitely got my art fix. I've missed the Met so much living up in Toronto. I used to go there every week when I was at Parsons. I re-visited some of my favourites: Lucian Freud, Gaston Lachaise, and Chuck Close (Oskar's favourite). It's such a special place and like the best things in life, only cost a penny. So everyone can enjoy!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-15987858078475851092011-06-05T10:23:00.006-04:002011-06-05T10:35:36.072-04:00

Right across from the SUNY Purchase Campus is the the Pepsi Co. Sculpture Garden. Again, one of my old favourite haunts. How cool would it be to be able to walk these grounds during your lunch break?! Giacometti, Moore, Rodin all in set in these beautifully manicured grounds, and free!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-82670780648632299432011-06-05T10:18:00.002-04:002011-06-05T10:22:58.974-04:00

Sculpture by Andy Goldsworthy. One of my favourite artists. The egg was built by Goldsworthy at the SUNY Purchase campus. We tried to go to the Neuberger Museum for a good show, but they were closed due to power outage. That's okay, I still got good quality time with the egg.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-35716485511981527742011-06-05T10:14:00.003-04:002011-06-05T10:17:57.448-04:00

Cafe Habana.One of the many places that I looked forward to re-visiting during my trip to new york. I ordered my usual, the corn, and opted for an ice coffee over my regular hibiscus iced tea.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-44654166303115988322011-02-19T11:25:00.004-05:002011-02-19T13:08:24.460-05:00

I love going on vacation. It's always stressful leading up to it, wrapping up all the loose ends before leaving, but once I leave I let everything go. We've gone down to FT Myers, FL a few times, but everytime it gets better. Maybe I'm just getting older and appreciating the peace, quite and space. Either way this was a great vacation. I love the bird life, the warm gulf, and the fact that I

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-74942906303819082422011-02-19T10:52:00.008-05:002011-02-19T13:10:31.146-05:00

The other weekend Oskar and I walked out to Queen West to get brunch at Sadie's Diner, own of my favourite Huevos Rancheros spots. On our walk home we passed by the skaters, town hall(the ufo building), and the eaton centre for a little shopping. It's so important to get outside and appreciate nature even if the weather is cr*p.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-84105657788392449232011-02-18T23:24:00.005-05:002011-02-18T23:29:04.622-05:00

I found these adorable little concrete planters on Etsy. I've always been a fan of succulents. They are so beautiful and low maintenance. Since I'm far from a green thumb, but love plants they are a perfect match for me. I can imagine putting 3 or 4 around my office desk to remind me that there is life beyond those 4 walls.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-55827308992106493132011-02-18T23:18:00.004-05:002011-02-18T23:22:11.771-05:00

I must share Modcloth with you. I have yet to buy, but I love window shopping. Below are some of the purchases that are on my mind. Maybe if I make my lunch for work for the next weeks and scrape together my loonies I can buy 1 or 2.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-11185402088347011332011-02-18T22:52:00.005-05:002011-02-18T23:05:28.291-05:00

I never was a big dress person, cause I associated them with begin to "girly girl" which I was not. But I love hop the fence and have embrace "the dress". All you have to do is put it on then throw on a necklace and your on your way to work. So much easier then having all these seperates. So I'm always on the hunt for reasonable dresses. I just found a great site called Ruche. There stuff is

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-11801775771807835102011-02-18T22:27:00.004-05:002011-02-18T22:39:53.724-05:00

This is one of the easiest, if not the easiest recipe that I have ever made. I love fast easy recipes that pay off big in the flavour (yes I spelled it the Canadian way) department. I don't bake and hate to be precious when cooking so I like recipes that are forgiving, and this one is very forgiving. I regularly go on Epicurious and my "recipe box" is overflowing with recipes that I hope to

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-22458798392146262592011-02-18T22:03:00.009-05:002011-02-18T22:25:33.310-05:00

Anthropolgie that is. I have loved them from a far, and a bit closer when they have sales on. If I could decorate my apartment exactly like the store, I don't think I would ever leave home. I love the way the store smells, looks, and makes me feel as though I have traveled the world even though I was in Cleveland Ohio. I took this snap shot on my phone of the beautiful paper dress that was

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-5022159576573890662011-01-08T13:43:00.002-05:002011-01-08T13:47:56.546-05:00

New drawings for fun. I was thinking of making a new mascot For the Love of Line. I wanted to do a whale, but half way through the drawing the whale became a shark. I still like him though.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-52552184984860026972010-11-18T15:20:00.005-05:002010-11-18T15:27:00.901-05:00

I just finished designing a the flyer for City of Craft's Event, For Keeps: A Mending ShowOpening event Thursday, December 9th 7-9pm mending circle: bring your clothes in needof fixing and learn new methods of mending10pm Owle Bird performanceDJ Teddy the K all nightCream Tangerine Gallery1087 Queen St WToronto, ON

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-83842957839039097762010-11-14T22:42:00.005-05:002010-11-14T22:53:31.742-05:00

The first Sunday of every month the Danish Community of Puslinch Lake, just south of Guelph, serves up a Smorgasbord. This may seem totally obscure and irrelevant, unless you know my in-laws who immigrated from Sweden and have a weakness for gravlax and meatballs. It was fun to take a walk in the woods, eat smorgasbord, and get to know my danish roots(my mom's dad's side of the family(Mogensen!).

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-3898345662099461192010-11-14T22:30:00.004-05:002010-11-14T22:42:03.386-05:00

Held at Cassique the wedding was pure indulgence!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-23292255179572951962010-11-14T22:07:00.005-05:002010-11-14T22:30:02.504-05:00

Oyster roast and a traditional southern hoe down for my brother-in-laws sister's rehearsal dinner. The setting couldn't have been more beautiful.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-24262598613748487582010-11-14T17:37:00.014-05:002010-11-14T18:17:28.117-05:00

The house that we stayed at on Kiawah Island was my dream home! Not only was the interior a delight for the eyes and my bed a blessing for my back, but the house location was superior. Backed up on a putting/chipping green, I would make my coffee and watch Oskar and my brother in law play a few holes in the morning. While watching their game unfold my eyes would wonder to the river where I

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-78415390901587714782010-11-14T17:12:00.006-05:002010-11-14T17:37:06.744-05:00

I love vacation. Especially when I come back to work feeling totally recovered. That's what Kiawah did for me. I had sun, beach, amazing southern food, family and close encounters with wild animals (there were 2 gators living in the river behind our house!).

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-64849918843998485312010-10-11T19:47:00.002-04:002010-10-11T19:53:16.055-04:00

Every summer since I was a wee lass I have spent 2 weeks at my family cottage on Crystal Beach, and it was only a few weekends ago did I see my first rainbow. I'd say it was worth the wait.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-720133944616322332010-10-11T19:35:00.005-04:002010-10-11T19:54:57.392-04:00

My favourite Sunday activity is scouring the stands at the St. Lawrence Antiques Market. I have to control myself by limiting my purchases to 1 or 2. Otherwise, I'll go buck wild and fill our entire 900 sq ft apartment with "junk". So this weekend's buy was 1, no 2 Mason Jars and this cool glass vase. The Mason Jars are from a factory in Hamilton and the owner of the stand was telling me that

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-77726931904901670402010-10-11T18:38:00.006-04:002010-10-11T19:16:45.032-04:00

I just received copies of Scott Lanaway's "Mergers & Acquisitions" CD that I did the illustrations for. They look great! I'm really pleased with the final product. Click here to give Scott's music a listen.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-12622319984734760492010-08-29T15:06:00.014-04:002010-09-17T14:46:44.376-04:00

hen I was down in the States at my sister's house a few months ago she told me about this new reality show, 9 by Design, that she was hooked on. We then proceeded to sit on the couch all weekend and had a 9 by Design marathon while her husband cooked us yummy meals. Then I came back to Canada and was sad. I missed 9 by Design and I tried to remind myself that I had Sarah Richardson, Samantha

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-37438083208530654352010-08-14T16:19:00.006-04:002010-08-14T16:28:44.831-04:00

We ate, we drank, and Oskar fished. It was a beautiful weekend in the country.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-11999108811771969412010-08-14T15:53:00.010-04:002010-09-17T14:47:15.085-04:00

While on our wine trail through Prince Edward County I had a hankering for a snack. That's when amid private residences we spotted what looked like a shop. It was not just a shop. It was cheese shop!! What goes better with wine then cheese, more specifically Fifth Town Artisan Cheese! It was amazing. We sampled almost every cheese in the shop and walked away our favourites (the washed-rind

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-25369630561475646442010-07-25T21:46:00.008-04:002010-09-17T14:47:30.244-04:00

Today I just felt like finding moments in the apartment. The flowers that I had bought on Friday are in full bloom, the painting my grandmother gave to me years ago was calling to me, and my sisters mother-in-law's present of monogrammed coasters were reflecting the light just right. Also, my buttons from WORN magazine arrived weeks ago and were patiently waiting for me to document them. All

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-55866393349706235392010-07-22T15:03:00.004-04:002010-07-22T15:11:37.452-04:00

Sleeping Giant Gallery is putting together a new and very different kind of art show. See below email excerpt from Josh, one of the creative folks over at Sleeping Giant."Sleeping Giant Gallery will be hosting a 2 week exhibit in the monthof November featuring over 200 artists from across Ontario.The idea behind this exhibit is to create a different outlook on theway art purchasing is portrayed

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-24343859535390039842010-07-12T09:05:00.003-04:002010-07-12T09:10:38.093-04:00

TCA, Toronto Craft Alert, asked me to create 3 icons for them to keep readers connected while they take a 6 month hiatus. Check out the screen shots below.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-63563582885247190032010-06-30T11:39:00.003-04:002010-06-30T11:45:03.892-04:00

My first employer, Hyperakt, a Brooklyn based kick-ass design studio is always up to something. There latest project is to raise funds to print their informative and graphically pleasing World Cup poster. Check it out

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-83780548326387333922010-06-18T11:28:00.005-04:002010-07-22T15:13:15.861-04:00

The Paper Place is doing a Call for Submissions. All you have to do is pick up the provided 6x8 Japanese Kozo paper, create your artwork and return it to the store by June 25th. Then they will hang it in a group show and should you want to sell it they take 0% commission! It's a great opportunity for emerging artists to get some exposure and best in show wins a $100 gift certificate to The

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-326509947800618272010-06-15T19:08:00.003-04:002010-06-15T19:12:15.197-04:00

Indeed we are. This illustration reminded me of the trippy movie, I Heart Huckabees.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-4441095231671564502010-06-15T19:02:00.003-04:002010-06-15T19:08:07.014-04:00

I use Epicurious for almost all of my recipes. My current obsession is this Mango Salsa Recipe. I usually add avocado and have never tried it with red pepper, but I'm sure it's great. The recipe got rave reviews from my monthly Women's Wine Group and I even got my candy addicted father-in-law to eat a hefty serving. It's quick, easy, and so so healthy. Plus avocados and mangoes are so ripe

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-71941184198748163052010-06-14T21:22:00.002-04:002010-06-15T11:19:28.048-04:00

I'm so happy that summer is here and I can fill my patio and sun room with plants. I did this drawing from one of my plants that is struggling, hence the sad little face. I'm giving it plenty of TLC and hoping it will become a big healthy plant one day.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-81181831901107622572010-06-12T18:43:00.004-04:002010-06-13T10:42:20.188-04:00

My husband has been away for 2 weeks and is coming home tomorrow. I've been lonely without him, but very productive. Him being away reminds me of when we had a long distance relationship. So this Rainy Doodle is for him.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-59651455899982647592010-06-12T08:39:00.017-04:002010-06-12T09:15:57.704-04:00

4th Street Food Co-Op put out an open call for a Logo Re-design. Since I didn't have that much on my plate 2 Fridays ago I decided I would spend a few hours on the project and see I came up with. I usually don't do contests or anything like this, but it did really tug at my heart strings because they are just down the street from my old apartment in New York. I used to buy my kale from

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-32421783774615758542010-06-02T08:39:00.005-04:002010-06-02T08:47:59.416-04:00

I celebrated my 30th birthday with a lovely lunch at Vineland Estates. We sat on their outdoor patio under a large tree and were treated like kings. The service was incredible, as was the atmosphere and food. Here's a glimpse of my celebratory lunch.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-5203226805801293872010-06-02T08:36:00.000-04:002010-06-02T08:39:15.534-04:00

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-5660185338311667462010-06-02T08:29:00.004-04:002010-06-02T08:36:48.347-04:00

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-41261427795425407102010-05-27T13:45:00.007-04:002010-05-27T13:54:06.003-04:00

outside the box from joseph Pelling on Vimeo.I just saw this video on Pikaland and had to share. I laughed out loud at work while watching it because it reminded me so much of art school. The animation style is adorable as are these two pompous characters. It begs the personal question, what do you do with the box? Enjoy.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-25375734974399630412010-05-04T13:07:00.008-04:002010-05-23T10:30:05.553-04:00

Oh La La UPDATE: Just received this email from the organizer of the Call for Entries:"Below are listed the top 10 finalists in the competition. They are not listed in any particular order.Havvy Ord – “Parkdale is People”Erin Candela – “Parkdale Beauty”John Fernandes – “The World On Your Corner”Brad Emsley – (Untitled)Crystal Bretschger – “People of Parkdale” Ginnie Chin – “Parkdale”Andrea

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-48228963532136537462010-05-03T12:36:00.010-04:002010-05-03T12:46:48.447-04:00

Just finished these Button Illustrations for WORN Fashion Journal. Assignment: Make a 1 inch button illustration of something "worn". I was supposed to make 1 illustration, but came up with 4 and like them as a series. I left it up to them to choose which they prefer. I think I'm leaning most towards my reddy pink loafers. Which in real life are black and white and my most comfortable shoes

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-52256794550853932572010-04-27T13:11:00.007-04:002010-04-27T13:25:12.738-04:00

Now live: Niagara Falls Motor LodgeI worked on new logo and website design sketches a few months ago and the lovely and talented, Teresa over at Attention Design out in Vancouver has just finished the coding.I'm very pleased with the end result as I hear the client is as well. Inspiration: Ru Kuwahata, my former classmate at Parsons, and bottomless pit of creativity

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-71029634480884600902010-04-24T10:32:00.002-04:002010-04-24T10:44:34.774-04:00

Happy Belated Earth Day. I hope everyone did their part. I did mine by walking to & from work and brought my travel mug to get morning coffee sans paper cup from my favourite environmentally conscious diner,Sadie's.I just finished an illustration for the online magazine, The Lemon Life. The article is entitled April Alteration and it's all about changing your attitude about the month of April.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-72553229240833935902010-03-12T14:07:00.011-05:002010-03-13T15:08:14.596-05:00

Happy Belated Birthdays to my late great mother, little niecey Madeline, and 100th celebration of International Women's Day. Today's Inspiration: One of the artists who I always wanted to share with my mom, Andy GoldsworthyBelow are some drawings I did today 2 ways. Which style do you like better?

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-52437895660172771452010-03-07T19:02:00.006-05:002010-03-07T19:13:29.240-05:00

Yay! I just got 2 copies of the magazine in the mail. They look awesome. I doodled "Gloves Off" while on hold with a customer service agent at my bank. I guess something good can come out of telephonic frustration.Inspiration: One of my first favorites Gaston Lachaise

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-42329513428693127612010-03-06T16:54:00.004-05:002010-03-07T19:15:07.989-05:00

Yay! STICKERYOU is live!Now you can go to the site and make your own custom vinyl stickers.The site allows you to upload your own artwork or take advantage of the 1000's of images of our artbank. Here are a few of the brands & themes we currently offer.If your a little tight on time or creativity, you quickly grab a pre-made page.This is a view of our sticker maker. You can drag, drop and

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-73219327008827525142010-03-01T10:24:00.007-05:002010-03-01T10:41:41.119-05:00

The album, Mergers & Acquisitions by Scott Lanaway is now available to purchase on ITunes. I illustrated the the cover of the album and am so pleased that Scott took a creative leap to put his faith into a cluster of antelope heads. The imagery matches his airy, mystical, layered album perfectly. My favourite track title is "Oprah, God Wants You To Have a Jet". The official album release is

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-14518328578532543682010-02-09T19:30:00.006-05:002010-03-07T19:15:27.843-05:00

Below are some sketches that I just submitted for a poetry book on the Flora & Fauna of Guyana. My favorite is the first bird, the Blue-footed Booby!Inspiration: Australian Painter, Brett Whiteley

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-8484788038571889142010-01-08T13:10:00.002-05:002010-01-08T13:24:40.690-05:00

Just got my copies of Pilot 6! I illustrated an story written by Christopher McKinnon "The Science of Girls & Bones". I had alot of fun and creative freedom with this project. I'm pleased with the printed product and the best part is I get to be published in the same mini-book as Fiona Smyth!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-47337140857436301692010-01-08T12:54:00.007-05:002010-01-08T13:10:16.861-05:00

This posting is about 3 weeks to late, but that's okay because all is forgiven over the holidays. I went to City of Craft 2009 and thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was great to see so many Crafty Torontonians under one roof. The event was a great success complete with media coverage, raffle winners, and goody bags. I picked up my own City of Craft bag (pictured below) that I'll wear proudly

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-74541039501917524432010-01-08T12:11:00.007-05:002010-01-08T12:21:17.606-05:00

I just finished up this new E-Newsletter for the New York non-profit, ECPAT-USA. I used a site called Constant Contact that made laying out and mailing the newsletter so easy. It's great for the environment since Ecpat-Usa switched from paper and is much easier on their wallet. I'm really pleased with the final product and that they were open to going electronic.Inspiration: Pikaland

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-58573886777945977802009-12-15T08:21:00.009-05:002010-03-06T17:21:50.483-05:00

I'm working on some sketches for the cover issue of Side St Magazine. It's the March/April issue so I wanted to do something springy.Inspiration: Deadweight, the talented Toronto printmaking duo*UPDATE: Side St Magazine chose "Gloves Off" for the cover. I'll post new photos of the cover image when I get a printed copy.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-88347903068784035832009-12-05T15:28:00.004-05:002009-12-05T15:32:15.022-05:00

As I was sitting down with my coffee to work yesterday morning I was pleasantly surprised by my morning visitor. He made beautiful shadows on my curtains that I had a few seconds to capture. He moved quickly!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-19615821768461411642009-12-05T10:19:00.005-05:002010-01-08T12:05:47.889-05:00

New Illustration for the December issue of the TheLemonLife.comInspiration: Jason Jagel

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-7729794775693348702009-12-04T12:41:00.003-05:002009-12-04T12:44:47.159-05:00

I miss having a dog. I don't think Oskar shares the same sentiment.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-68501987424095253062009-12-04T12:37:00.003-05:002009-12-04T12:41:10.421-05:00

I miss having a backyard to play in.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-55099782947507417332009-12-04T12:24:00.003-05:002009-12-04T12:36:42.853-05:00

Snapshots from American Thanksgiving in Cleveland; lots of walks around the lake, yummy lattes, and sleeping in. It doesn't get any better than that.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-88157564165431965292009-11-08T21:45:00.003-05:002009-11-08T21:49:23.647-05:00

OCAD's Who Dun It is coming up on November the 18th.This will be my 3rd year contributing. All proceeds go to OCAD and each piece is only 75 bucks! Go check it out and see if you guess any right.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-7581555992433669322009-11-06T14:50:00.003-05:002009-11-06T14:55:40.520-05:00

I just got the ECPAT-USA Booklet in the mail today. They look great. There mission is to End Child Prostitution and Trafficking check out their website here for more info.Inspiration: Luke Best

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-44985866844453789812009-11-06T13:31:00.003-05:002009-11-06T13:35:59.658-05:00

Newly Printed Stickers from StickerYou.comWe'll be launching, cross your fingers, before the new year.Inspiration: Mati Rose McDonough

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-9967066966106359472009-11-06T13:08:00.003-05:002009-11-06T13:11:28.264-05:00

Big, Comfy, & Covered in Cowboy Boots!Inspiration: Matthew Palladino

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-75969827256695652272009-11-05T11:09:00.005-05:002009-11-05T14:42:34.416-05:00

A couple of weekends again Oskar and I went out to the Beamsville & Niagara wine regions on the hunt for some good Ontario Reds. It was peak fall foliage and the scenery was heavenly! The pictures below were taken at the small, but very successful winery Organized Crime. They were actually harvesting the grapes the day that we were there. All of the coloured crates below is what they were

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-77660136170998125642009-11-05T10:57:00.006-05:002009-11-05T14:43:55.410-05:00

I've been obsessed with Kale Chips! With Kale in season I can buy a huge tree-sized bunch from the farmers market for a toonie, that's 2 dollars for all you non-canucks. Then I just cut out the stems, clean, and bake after covering the leaves with oil, salt, and pepper. So good. See an easy recipe here from my favorite online recipe site epicurious. Below is the before and after

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-84871962386957468722009-11-04T14:40:00.009-05:002009-11-05T14:47:56.694-05:00

Below are some of my Little Monsters with digital colouring. I'm working on some stickers, screenprints, and greeting cards that have these little guys on them. Just in time for Christmas.Also, I got an email from my old boss, Deroy, over at Hyperakt Design Studio in Brooklyn that they just totally revamped their site. Check it out. They do amazing graphic design work for cultural orgs,

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-1479424791734930202009-10-19T11:35:00.011-04:002009-10-19T12:03:07.451-04:00

Unfortunately, I missed the opening at Industtrees this past Friday. The turnout out looks great though. "The Royal Family" featured the work of Aprile Elcich and is up until November 12th. Industtrees was also just written up in the Globe and Mail. A big congratulations to them! Check out that article here. Today's inspiration is a guy that graduated a year ahead of me. I remember his

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-61918547200557251522009-10-16T09:12:00.007-04:002009-10-16T09:54:39.566-04:00

Toronto in Colour, a new branch of CAMH, has featured my illustrations on their website! The collages were done for my senior thesis as part of a re-packaging for 3 Toni Morrison novels. The books that I created covers for were; Sula, Jazz, The Bluest Eye. To see them click here. In exchange for using my illustrations CAMH awarded me an Itouch and will have an official bash to celebrate their

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-17764650743661433702009-10-07T15:16:00.004-04:002009-10-07T15:27:37.926-04:00

Over the past couple of months I've been lucky enough to get to know the girls over at Toronto Craft Alert. First I got to design a header for their e-newsletter with Jen, then I got interviewed by Amy, and then I got to finish my header design off by putting together the body of the e-newsletter with Jen.Quite a fun experience. I'm so pleased with how the mailer turned out and look forward to

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-20575007893448197402009-10-04T14:16:00.007-04:002009-11-04T14:59:27.104-05:00

I just received my very own printed copy of "Songs of the West" by Marion E. Moodie which I was lucky enough to create the cover illustration for. The printing is beautifully done on textured off-white paper that matches the palette and the linear quality of the illustration perfectly. The book was published by the good people at Ronald P. Frye & Company. To buy your own copy or read excerpts

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-17372026330382778072009-10-04T14:07:00.003-04:002009-10-04T14:39:38.175-04:00

They are all framed and ready to go to their new home with Cameron Kowalchuk at Industtrees Gallery. They are located at 1234 College Street in Toronto.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-6113902845114098602009-10-04T14:03:00.004-04:002009-11-04T16:38:21.599-05:00

More custom vinyl stickers from StickerYou. We are still in our quite beta test, but hoping to launch to the public in the next 2 months!!

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-23012208219296527632009-10-02T15:18:00.004-04:002009-11-04T16:38:54.659-05:00

Check out the full article here

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-1528110327152523862009-08-18T09:30:00.005-04:002009-08-18T09:39:47.060-04:00

I'm currently working on a new banner for the Toronto Craft Alert. I just noticed that they featured me on their website under "Intern Picks". See screenshot below and check out the link: TCA Intern Picks Toronto Craft Alert is one of the first mailing lists that I signed up for when I moved to Toronto to receive alerts on crafty happenings, classes, calls for entry, and all sorts of craft

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-42908553581932383042009-08-10T16:45:00.004-04:002009-11-04T16:42:19.903-05:00

My most recent illustration for TheLemonLife.com is now live.To read the accompanying article go to http://thelemonlife.com

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-13869256772278741442009-08-05T15:11:00.007-04:002009-08-05T15:15:47.227-04:00

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-73334104413546607462009-08-05T13:17:00.007-04:002009-11-04T16:39:23.943-05:00

Made at my company Stickeryou, which makes costum vinyl stickers, my digital illustrations! Now what to do with them?...

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-76188994166314423632009-08-03T09:41:00.006-04:002009-08-03T09:51:25.388-04:00

I just finished the redesign of logo and website for CanBarPrep.comThe website is now live, thanks to the quick coding of Teresa, from Attention Design over in Vancouver. You can see screenshots below of the new site or go to the link: www.canbarprep.ca The last screenshot is of there old logo and site.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-36330350829540671652009-07-13T12:19:00.006-04:002009-10-04T14:39:10.075-04:00

Successful opening at Industtrees Gallery this past Friday night. Thanks for those of you that stopped by. Here are some photos of the event taken by co-owner Cameron Kowalchuk. Store hours are Mon-Fri 12-7pm. See location information below.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-37000799628776401822009-07-10T13:00:00.004-04:002009-11-04T16:43:35.733-05:00

To see the most recent articles on The Lemon Life click here.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-1224189477677851972009-05-15T09:12:00.010-04:002009-06-23T09:11:54.955-04:00

I just finished designing this fun and colorful brochure, 20x60 ft banner, and newsletter for the New York based non-profit, ECPAT-USA. Pictured below are photographs taken at their 5K fundraiser that they had in New York City on May 23rd. To learn more about ECPAT-USA and their mission to end child prostitution and sex trafficking go to their website http://www.ecpatusa.org/

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-84439184579263338122009-04-30T10:06:00.004-04:002009-04-30T10:17:15.709-04:00

Born yesterday at 4:11pm. Weighing in at 7 pounds 4 ounces and 19 inches long. Welcome to the world little Gates Elizabeth Seidelmann. Below are illustrations I made for Gatesy's nursery and a picture of the little elf herself.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-1007975965070098622009-04-14T13:51:00.007-04:002009-04-14T13:57:24.343-04:00

Awesome. I made the cut for the section "Reader Art" on Juxtapoz.comCheck it out at: http://www.juxtapoz.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5841&Itemid=59

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-63615296720297152252009-04-13T10:43:00.006-04:002009-04-13T10:49:21.163-04:00

I created these two arts over Easter weekend. The first image is a second attempt at the illustration for The Lemon Life (the first attempt is in the entry below). The subject is graduates that move away or live at home after getting their degree. The second image is just a collection of left over pieces from other collages.

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-29021216973078139512009-04-09T11:24:00.003-04:002009-06-22T15:22:22.519-04:00

New illustration for The Lemon Life.To read the article you can go to http://www.thelemonlife.com

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152678709659803399.post-3033631972543678862009-04-02T14:51:00.004-04:002009-06-22T15:20:10.448-04:00

I created these two illustrations for the first issue of "The Lemon Life", an online magazine that is all about life after graduation. To read the articles and see the illustrations in context go to http://www.thelemonlife.com/

Crystal Johanssonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15620704953583562895noreply@blogger.com0