Our limited edition Tubby Explorer summer collection is here! We designed the collection in collaboration with talented artist (and mama!) Kristen Long. Below, find out where Kristen drew inspiration for the summery, adorable Tubby Explorer label designs and learn what Exploring means to her.
Q: Tell us about you! How did you get started in design and illustration?
A: For as long as I can remember drawing has always been my passion. It felt natural for me to study painting and drawing in college, and explore my career as an artist after graduation. I always knew this was my path and the road to get here was a little tricky but I persevered through the challenges. Now I'm fortunate enough to love what I do every single day.
Q: What was your inspiration for the Tubby Explorer series?
A: Exploration! Traveling and adventure are two things that always inform my work, so this series was all about my favorite types of travel. Whether its taking a road trip to the beach, exploring a new city, or camping in the wilderness - I love it all!
Q: Tell us what adventure means to you.
A: Adventure means stepping out of your comfort zone and finding new things to do that are thrilling—whatever that means for you! Adventure could be a big trip to a foreign place, or going out late at night for a trip to the ice cream shop. Either way, new adventures are always fun!
Q: Give us your definition of EXPLORE as it relates to your everyday life.
A: Explore (v.) — a means of finding new things or learning new skills.
I think it's important to explore everyday—personally what comes to mind when I think of the word explore is my craft. For me, it's important to continually explore ways of making art and creating. It keeps things exciting and I learn as I go.
Q: Describe one of your favorite adventures (big or small!) that you’ve had with your little gal.
A: Every day is an adventure with my little one! She's always up for learning new things, so really just watching her grow and explore is an adventure for me.
Q: Do you have a summer bucket list? What places would you love to explore in the coming months?
A: I do! I just took my daughter to Sesame Place last weekend which was thrilling for all of us. And in the coming months we have a trip planned to our lake house, Chicago to visit family, and the Caribbean towards the end of the summer. So lots of traveling for us coming up and I can't wait to show my daughter so many new things!
Shop the Tubby Explorer bundle HERE.
