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Nature’s Eternal Canvas: 2024 Masha Calendar

Masha D'yans 2024 Watercolor Wall Calendar

In a world dominated by digital screens and endless notifications, there’s something undeniably enchanting about flipping the pages of a physical calendar.

A Symphony of Colors and Creativity

The artistic wizard behind the 2024 Masha Calendar, has once again graced us with her whimsical and captivating watercolor illustrations. Her work is a testament to the delicate dance between nature, fine art, fashion, and enchanting fairy tales. Every image is a masterpiece that invites you to get lost in a world where colors pop like fireworks, characters charm like old friends, and nature blossoms with a unique radiance.

Embracing the Seasons

With climate challenges becoming more pronounced, it’s essential to remember the beauty of the seasons. The Masha D’yans 2024 Watercolor Wall Calendar does just that. It captures the essence of each month, reminding us of the ever-changing tapestry of nature. From the vibrant blooms of spring to the warmth of summer, the fiery hues of autumn, and the serene landscapes of winter, this calendar celebrates the resilience and beauty of our world.

An Art Album in Disguise

What sets this calendar apart is the fact that it’s more than just a date-keeper. It’s a work of art, an album of emotions, and a time capsule of beauty. Many of our cherished clients don’t simply use the calendar for its intended purpose. Instead, they collect and frame the art, transforming it into a permanent fixture on their walls.

Each month’s illustration becomes a cherished piece of decor, an ever-present reminder of the magic of nature and the fleeting beauty of each season. It’s not just a calendar; it’s a gallery of emotions, a living testament to the power of art to capture and preserve moments in time.

The Calendar Delights

The 2024 Watercolor Wall Calendar isn’t just a tool to track your days; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the magic of Masha D’yans’s art. Here’s what you can expect:

-Bonus Spread: The calendar offers a bonus spread covering September to December 2023, so you can start your journey a bit early, just like a prologue to an epic story.

-Generous Grids: The spacious grids on each page provide ample room for your notes, appointments, and artistic expressions. It’s a canvas waiting for your creativity.

-Holiday Highlights: Major official holidays are marked, making sure you never miss out on important celebrations.

-Oversized Art: The calendar measures a stunning 12 inches x 24 inches when fully opened, allowing each illustration to shine in all its glory.

Join Us in Preserving the Magic

We invite you to be part of our mission to preserve and continue this artistic journey. If you’ve had the pleasure of enjoying the Masha D’yans 2024 Watercolor Wall Calendar (especially if purchased through Amazon) and have experienced the joy of collecting and framing Masha’s art, we kindly request you to share your thoughts and experiences with us on Amazon.

Your reviews not only help fellow art lovers discover the magic of this calendar but also play a crucial role in making a 2025 calendar a reality. By leaving your feedback, you’re casting a vote for more years of captivating art and inspiration.

So, if you’ve been captivated by the vibrant colors and the enchanting characters of Masha’s calendars, take a moment to share your thoughts on Amazon. It’s a small step that could lead to more years of artistry and beauty on your walls.

Together, let’s make sure the magic continues. Join us in leaving a review on Amazon and casting your vote for a 2025 calendar that promises to be even more enchanting. 🎨✨

Thank you for being part of our artistic community, and for helping us keep the tradition alive while celebrating the resilience of nature in the face of climate challenges.

CLICK HERE to leave a REVIEW on Amazon

Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette: A Father’s Day and Pride Celebration!

Father’s Day and Pride Month go paw in hand! We’re here to celebrate the unique bond between the late fashion icon and member of LGBTQIA+ Karl Lagerfeld and his fabulous feline adoptee, Choupette.

Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette: A Father's Day and Pride Celebration!

Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette: A Father’s Day and Pride Celebration!

A Fashionable Beginning:
Karl Lagerfeld, the creative genius behind Chanel and Fendi, was not only known for his impeccable taste in fashion but also for his love of felines. Enter Choupette, a fluffy, blue-eyed beauty who stole Karl’s heart from the moment they met. With her luxurious fur and sassy attitude, Choupette quickly became the center of his world.

Fatherly Love:
Despite his busy schedule, Karl Lagerfeld adored Choupette and showered her with love and affection. He often referred to her as his “daughter” and even mentioned in interviews that he would marry her if it were legal. Their bond was unmistakable, and it was clear that Choupette brought immense joy and companionship into Karl’s life.

A Life of Luxury:
As the daughter of Karl Lagerfeld, Choupette lived a life that most could only dream of. She had her own personal chef, enjoyed caviar and smoked salmon, and had a collection of designer beds, clothes and toys. Choupette’s lavish lifestyle attracted attention from cat lovers and fashion enthusiasts alike, making her a true celebrity in her own right.

The Purrfect Partnership:
Choupette didn’t just sit around looking glamorous all day; she was an integral part of Karl’s life and work. Known as the world’s most fashionable cat, Choupette had her own Instagram account, graced the pages of magazines, and even inspired a book. She accompanied Karl on his travels, sat front row at fashion shows, and became a muse for countless designs. Choupette truly embodied the saying, “Behind every great man is a great cat!”

A Stylish Duo with a Twist:
Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette were undoubtedly a dynamic duo, turning heads and capturing hearts wherever they went. Lagerfeld’s unparalleled talent and Choupette’s irresistible charm made them a force to be reckoned with. However, it’s important to acknowledge that Lagerfeld’s legacy was not without its fair share of controversies.

A Rainbow of Lessons:
As we honor Lagerfeld’s complex legacy in the context of Father’s Day and Pride Month, let’s take a moment to reflect on the lessons we can learn from his controversial past.Father’s Day and and Pride Month both teach us the importance of embracing diversity, inclusivity, and learning from our mistakes. Lagerfeld’s journey serves as a reminder that growth is a continuous process, and acknowledging controversies allows us to foster dialogue and work towards a more inclusive and understanding society.

Though Mr Lagerfeld, himself part of the LGBTQIA+ community, leaves a complicated legacy his devotion to his fluffy “daughter” and his talent are beyond reproach. So here’s to interspecies fatherhood – Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette: A Father’s Day and Pride Celebration!

Mother’s Day through art

Mother’s Day is here for us to put a big exclamation point on our appreciation for the most important person in our lives! And what better way to express our gratitude than through art?

Art has always been a way to convey emotions and express things that words cannot. It can be a powerful tool to show love and affection towards our mother figures. So, whether you are a seasoned artist or just starting, let’s explore some fun and creative ways to celebrate Mother’s Day through arts and crafts!

Grab your markers, glitter, and construction paper, and let’s get started on creating the perfect Mother’s Day masterpiece. You may even make it into the most personal greeting card ever!

First, think about what you want to say to your mom. Do you want to tell her how much you love her, thank her for everything she’s done for you, or simply wish her a happy Mother’s Day? Once you have an idea of what you want to say, start brainstorming some design ideas. A whole wide world of art is always there if you need fantastic reference.

You could draw a picture of your mom, create a collage of your favorite memories together, or use stickers and cut-outs to create a fun and playful composition.

Next, choose your materials. You could use construction paper, cardstock, or even recycled materials to create your special piece. You could also use markers, colored pencils, paint, glitter, or any other art supplies you have on hand to add some extra pizzazz. If you want to take things up a notch, try painting! Paintings have a magical way of capturing emotions and bringing them to life. You could use watercolors, acrylics, or even oil paints to create a stunning artwork for your mom. Painting gives you the freedom to experiment with different textures or techniques, such as splattering, stippling, or blending.

Once you have your materials ready, it’s time to get creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. If you’re creating a greeting card from your art, you could write a poem or song, create a pop-up card, or even add some 3D elements to your design. The possibilities are endless!

When you’re finished creating, be sure to write a special message. Tell your mom how much she means to you and how grateful you are to have her in your life. You could include some special memories or inside jokes that you both share.

Finally, present your art/card to your mom in a special way. You could place it on her breakfast tray, tuck it into her purse, or even sneak it into her car as a surprise. Whatever you choose, your mom is sure to appreciate the time and effort you put into creating a special art piece just for her.

OR you can always grab one from our large selection! Mother’s Day greeting cards are a timeless way to express your love through creativity for the the one who created you. Whether you create a simple card or an elaborate masterpiece, the important thing is to put your heart and soul into it. So, get creative, have fun, and show your mom how much you care this Mother’s Day!

Easter bunny, year of the rabbit

As Easter approaches, the iconic symbol of the season, the Easter bunny, comes to mind. This year, 2023, is particularly special as it is the Year of the Rabbit according to the Chinese zodiac. So, in honor of both Easter and the Year of the Rabbit, let’s take a look at the history and significance of the Easter bunny.

The Easter bunny has been a part of Easter celebrations for centuries, but its origins are not entirely clear. One theory suggests that the Easter bunny dates back to ancient pagan festivals, where rabbits were seen as symbols of fertility and new life. This is because rabbits are known for their rapid breeding and numerous offspring, making them a fitting symbol for the renewal of spring.

Another theory is that the Easter bunny has Christian roots. In the 1700s, German immigrants to the United States brought with them the tradition of the “Osterhase,” a hare that laid colored eggs as gifts for children. This tradition eventually evolved into the modern-day Easter bunny we know and love.

Regardless of its origins, the Easter bunny has become an important symbol of Easter around the world. In many cultures, the Easter bunny is believed to bring baskets of candy and gifts to children on Easter morning. Children often leave out carrots or other treats for the bunny to snack on in exchange for the goodies left in their baskets.

This year, as we celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, the Easter bunny takes on even greater significance. According to the Chinese zodiac, those born in the Year of the Rabbit are said to be intelligent, kind-hearted, and compassionate. They are also known for their gentle and peaceful nature, making them a fitting symbol for the message of hope and renewal that Easter represents.

In addition to its symbolic significance, the Easter bunny also provides a fun and lighthearted element to Easter celebrations. Whether it’s participating in an Easter egg hunt or indulging in some chocolate treats, the Easter bunny brings joy to people of all ages.

So, as we celebrate Easter and the Year of the Rabbit this year, let’s take a moment to appreciate the joy and meaning that the Easter bunny brings to our lives. Whether you believe in the ancient pagan roots or the Christian symbolism, there’s no denying that the Easter bunny is a beloved part of Easter traditions around the world. Happy Easter and may the Year of the Rabbit bring peace, joy, and renewal to us all!
Hello March, Watercolor Mischief EasterEaster is happeningEaster Card Hunt watercolor greeting cards by Masha D'yans

2023 CALENDAR IS HERE!

Amazing news!⁠
❄️???⁠
Due to the extremely popular demand, we’re offering the 2023 calendar after all! As of now you can purchase and enjoy the print-on-demand physical version by going to Zazzle.com/Store/MashaDyans. Thank you for not giving up, writing and showing how much our #calendar has meant to you over the years.⁠ We couldn’t possibly disappoint so many fans.
?⁠??❄️
I’m truly very moved by all the notes we received.⁠
xo⁠
Masha⁠
2023 Calendar Watercolors by Masha Dyans

A Garden in Your Belly: Let’s Meet

We’d like to introduce you to Masha’s Latest picture book “A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut” through our author Q&A!

A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut.Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

Growing up, my family moved a lot and in different configurations (I’m talking neighborhoods first and continents later). Staying in touch with friends and family in those pre-social media days was everything. One of my favorite things to do was to send drawings of things I observed or ideas I had along with my letters. This led me to make illustrations and put together stories and that’s what I still do!

What was your inspiration for this book?

Me, as the little girl suffering from severe food allergies, anxiety and stomach aches. That kid could really use some ideas on regulating her well-being all those years ago. Also, since childhood I’ve been into miniatures and the idea of worlds within worlds. Our planet is part of a vast cosmos. We’re all part of this earth. We, in turn, have worlds within us. Similarly, a microbe has a world inside itself, as does each cell. I love that we can go smaller and smaller in the style of the Russian doll “Matryoshka.”

A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut by Masha D'yans

Is this book fact or fiction?

It’s art based on science. I always had an interest in nerdy things I could hardly unravel, probably because I’m a child of a scientist (who loves to paint) and an artist (who loves studying nature).

Where did the visual world come from?

It’s a huge challenge to depict a mind-blowing universe, even if microbial. My approach was to tap into the beginner’s mind, to forget the visuals typical of this subject matter. I let my imagination run so that the young reader could picture their own biology in a fun, non-clinical way. But some art history inspiration is definitely peeking through the illustrations. Can you see it?

A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut by Masha D'yans

What do you hope readers will take away from your book?

Hopefully, the book will engage the reader with fun details and visual surprises long enough to encourage good habits in kids and their adults!

Please briefly describe the theme of your book and its scope.

The human microbiome is not only a fascinating world of its own, it’s vitally important to every aspect of our lives. You are what you eat, after all.

Please summarize your book.

A Garden In Your Belly takes an imaginative look into the wondrous relationship between our bodies and the trillions of organisms we host, the microbes we call the microbiota. These tiny creatures play a huge role in whether we are sick or healthy, fit or sluggish, sunny or moody. Young readers can picture the mind-blowing microbial world inside as a journey through an adventure-filled landscape and learn some amazing science in an actionable, user-friendly way. Every kid can get excited about nourishing their tiny inner helpers or “pets” that play such an important role in their well-being. The well-nourished microbiome will in turn offer them protection from unwanted invaders and pathogens like viruses. The interconnectivity of our lifestyle and our health has become more apparent than ever. This book aims to present its importance and beauty in a fun, engaging way. The microbiome has always been with us, coevolving with humans and entwining its functions with ours. Might as well face it and make friends!A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut by Masha D'yans

Was there anything else that inspired this book?

I’ve had health struggles since childhood and started looking into wellness and biohacking in earnest a few years ago. There’s hardly a scientific discussion about health lately without mentioning the fascinating (and only partially-explored) microbiome. The fact that we all exist as composite organisms is endlessly enchanting to me. It leads to so much potential for increased curiosity, empathy and imagination – precisely the kinds of things kids are most open to.

Why will people want to read your book? What developments, trends, and issues reflect this need? What kinds of problems does your work address and what solutions does it offer?

Wellness has become a mainstream trend, yet the state of global health is generally declining. Long before the emergence of Covid-19, nutritional experts had agreed that the modern lifestyle is harmful to our inner gardens in many ways. Our gut bacteria is being decimated by processed foods, lack of physical activity, environmental pollution and gut-harming medications. Yet this message has far to go still. Too many kids are growing up surrounded by unhealthy food, bombarded with the idea that addictive sugary treats are something rewarding to covet.

I wish I knew the importance of nutrition and how to regulate my physiological and psychological well-being as a kid. It would’ve saved me so much unnecessary angst and possibly illness. Because 80 – 90% of our immune cells reside in our gut, everything that happens there influences what goes on with our health. Our first line of defense against viral infection (Covid-19 for example) is our respiratory mucosa. Its state is directly influenced by the state of the gut.

Simply put, a healthy gut equals less disease and that extends beyond the physical. We have a chance to gift this important knowledge to the next generation, and it doesn’t have to be scary, dull, preachy or off-putting.A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut by Masha D'yans

Who do you see as the primary audience for the book?

Anyone who eats.

Who might have a secondary interest in the book?

Parents. Anyone interested in wellness.

What do you hope readers will learn or discover from reading your book?

Healthy fascination with the mighty microbiome. The interconnectivity of our lifestyle and our health. This has become more critical than ever as the world suffers through the effects of a pandemic.
The microbiome is infinitely malleable. It’s never too early or too late to make friends with it.A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut by Masha D'yans

A Garden in Your Belly: Meet the Microbes in Your Gut by Masha D'yans

New Year Greetings + Cards!

As we make our way into the new year I wanted to send happy wishes and share some new cards happening in the painterly realm of Studio Masha D’yans.

The 12 designs below are currently in production – ready to travel the planet early February.

Every day I strive to remain a continual source of uplifting vibes, beauty, love, light, health, creativity, and hope, by way of the art that I create and share with the world via cards and books!

I am always grateful for the love and support of my art!

Sending a big virtual hug,

xo Masha

       

Flower Talk is here!

Hello March! Hello Spring! Hello Masha’s newest book Flower Talk: How Plants Use Color to Communicate!

Follow our prickly narrator as he humorously explains what’s up with flowers and their pollinators.Flower Talk book by Masha D'yans in succulents

We certainly learned a lot just working on this beautiful project!Flower Talk book by Masha D'yans flower field

We hope you do too while enjoying the lush art.Flower Talk book by Masha D'yans reading in succulents

 

 

Here Comes Polka Dot Parade!

“The best fashion show is definitely on the street. Always has been. Always will be.”
—Bill Cunningham

We’ve got heaps to be excited about here at Studio Masha D’yans, but we’re simply bursting at the seams over Masha’s latest passion project: Polka Dot Parade: A Book About Bill Cunningham, which will be released 8/28/18!Masha Polka Dot Parade
photo: Lika Brutyan

This picture book, highlighting the life and work of legendary New York Times street fashion photographer, Bill Cunningham, will encourage kids of all ages to search for inspiration and decide for themselves what is truly beautiful. For more history and insight into Bill and his joyful use of photography, check out his autobiographical NYT article or spend an evening watching the lovely documentary, Bill Cunningham New York. And if you’re in NYC between June and September, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the New-York Historical Society’s exhibit celebrating Cunningham’s career.

Finding artistry in daily rituals, whimsy in what others deem ordinary, and a relentless passion in your creative work… that kind of thinking is our bread and butter. This makes it no surprise that the incredible career and work of Bill Cunningham strikes such a chord!

Illustrating Polka Dot Parade was a treat for Masha, allowing her to fall back into the New York City rhythm she knows so well, and letting her love of fashion and gorgeous detail run wild and free.

Even legendary children’s author, Eric Carle, sings praise for this rolicking celebration of Bill Cunningham:

Masha’s vivid watercolor work brings Bill’s photos to life. A stunning marriage of two forms of art. The eyes are on a holiday. Well done!
Eric Carle

And here’s even more love Polka Dot Parade is already getting:

Polka Dot Parade is a charming reminder of all the color and joy that Bill Cunningham brought to the Fashion World every day. The industry is not the same without him. Thank you, Masha D’yans and Deborah Blumenthal for creating this lovely celebration of Bill’s mark on the world.
Christy Turlington

…fabulously vivid illustrations by Masha D’yans (savor the spot-on illos of fashion luminaries Anna Wintour, Andre Leon Talley, Iris Apfel, Lynn Yaeger and Grace Coddington).
Chicago Tribune

Beautifully rendered and told, the book brings to life the work of a gifted 20th-century artist whose creative vision will always be in vogue.
Kirkus Reviews, STARRED review

With dynamic processions of swooshing colors, patterns, and fabrics, D’yans vividly conveys how Cunningham viewed New York City fashion through his eyes and lens. One figure wears a trailing cloak that features an inky landscape; elsewhere, moths and dragonflies emerge from a woman’s gown. Cunningham is portrayed as an impassioned observer who captured the beauty of his subjects in unguarded moments on the street, or from the handlebars of his beloved bicycle.
Publishers Weekly

Bill Cunningham was a New York treasure and the most beloved photographer and quirky personality in the fashion business. I am so glad Deborah and Masha created this whimsical storybook, exposing our Bill to whole new audience. I miss you, Bill.
Fern Mallis, Creator of New York Fashion Week

Your work is too wonderful and it would have made our darling Bill very happy to see it. The two of you together are a class act.
Valerie von Sobel

Masha does splashswishsmudgesquiggles so deftly. Her fresh scented girl brains revive the spirit and invigorate the squeals. Excellent work.
Mia Vesper


We hope you’ll preorder Polka Dot Parade (Amazon, Local Booksellers, Barnes & Noble) and learn a little bit about our beloved Bill in the process!

 

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Hello August!

Celebrate August in all its sunny glory with a page from Masha calendar! 2019 is already out!

Hello August - watercolor by Masha D'yans