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Today we have a special guest — it’s Jessica from The Shiny Squirrel. I’ve been following Jessica’s gallery/shop for a long time now and am so, so happy to see some of our participants’ work at her gallery (Brian & Denise Simon!) If you’re wondering what it’s like to be a Shiny Squirrel, then read on!

Tell us more about yourself!
My name Jessica and I live in Williamsburg, Brooklyn in a really quaint apartment. I studied art history in college and have always had aspirations of opening my own art gallery/ boutique. I currently work in the fashion industry, but my heart is with The Shiny Squirrel.

What inspires you?
I get inspired by New York and the great artists who live and work around here. I am also have my daily blogs that I look through that help me to find new artists/ designers to bring into the shop.

Solar Polar Gocco print by Wonting

And how did the Shiny Squirrel came about?
I have always wanted to own my own business and knew that at this point in my life I probably couldn’t open a regular store. I realized one day that I wasn’t truly following my heart and knew that this was the perfect outlet to express my creativity. The site was put together by some really amazing designers who helped me along the way and I am immensely grateful for that.

What’s the best thing about being surrounded by such lovely art?
My walls are never bare!

Ice Cream Cloud Plant Heaven; Backbend, both by Betsy Walton

Is there a certain style that the Shiny Squirrel is looking for? And are there any helpful tips you’d like to give out to readers?
The Shiny Squirrel looks for new artists with a quirky sensibility that is slightly off the beaten path. We want the gallery to be diverse yet look like a cohesive collection.

Trees and Waves by Christina Vantzou; Picnic by Chris Gregori

Tell us something random about yourself!
I play pool on a weekly league in Brooklyn. I hope to own my own table someday.

{Thanks Jessica!}

Percy Loves Ice Cream

Mr. Sausage Meets a Hungry Dog

There’s something very raw about Stacey Louise Joy’s illustrations — which she does with pencils and colored pencil in between. I find them endearing because of the plot of her stories — which she also illustrates. It mostly involves a penguin, a cat, a dog, and a sausage (although not necessarily in that order).

Crayonlegs is home to Sarah and Duncan who both have their own quirky, offbeat illustration styles. (You must, must have a look at their intro animation!)

I love Sarah’s newest experimental illustrations at the literal translation of facial hair — go on, have a peek and tell me that didn’t make you snigger.

Duncan’s work ranges from strong and colorful; to muted and natural tones, but is no less interesting. My fave has got to be his subjects’ full lips.

Both of them offer prints up for sale at their shop, and they’re both based in the UK too.