Review and Giveaway: Mike Curato Illustrations

You know those people who are naturally artsy and you look at things they create and you just think “Wow”? Well I am definitely NOT one of those people. However, I am lucky enough to know someone who is. Mike Curato is a freelance illustrator and graphic designer based in Seattle, Washington. Most of his artwork begins with a simple pencil which amazes me since I can barely draw a decent stick person. Mike creates works that are cute, tell a story, and can also be thought provoking.

My favorite character of Mike’s has to be Elly the Elephant.

Who doesn’t love a polka dot elephant who loves sweets? 

I want to invite him over to share a cupcake with me. We actually love Elly so much that he adorned our Christmas cards this year. 

Another piece I enjoy is “Quiet Forest.” I love the footsteps in the snow, the scarf almost fully covering his face, and then there is the smallest little flower blooming. Magical.

Mike’s art show “All of Our Friends Are Here” is currently available for viewing at Verite/Cupcake Royale in Madrona, WA.  

Mike has been gracious enough to offer a free, unframed print from his Etsy shop ($30 value) to one of Dollop of Diane’s readers.

For your chance to win, leave a comment on this blog post below telling me which illustration is your favorite from his shop.

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****Please leave a separate comment for each entry that you do so that you get the proper credit. Already do some of the above? Thank you! Please leave a separate entry for each and tell me that you do. Make sure that a valid email address is provided so that I can contact you if you win. Winner will be randomly selected and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.  Contest is open to US Residents only. Entry period ends on January  20, 2012 at 8pm EST.

GOOD LUCK!!!

***Update:  1/20/12 Winner has been chosen and notified. Thanks to all who participated!****