When my client came to me in search of the perfect piece of art for her one-year-old’s room, she had vision in mind. She wanted something unique—something that not only fit the theme of the space but also captured her son’s age in a truly special way. Their chosen theme? Jonah and the Whale. But she didn’t just want a generic piece of artwork; she wanted her son to be part of the image, woven into a storybook scene that would feel both timeless and deeply personal.

Challenge accepted!

This is exactly the kind of work I love to create—art that carries meaning, emotion, and a sense of wonder. There’s nothing more fulfilling than crafting something that a mother and child will cherish for years to come.

So, I began the brainstorming process. How could I bring a toddler and a whale together in a way that felt natural, magical, and visually compelling?

I started sketching rough ideas, letting my pencil explore different compositions. Should the whale be enormous, cradling the child gently as if protecting him? Or should it be more whimsical, playfully interacting with him in a sea of imagination? I considered a dreamy, watercolor-inspired scene, where the little boy could float among the waves, embraced by the soft, rolling ocean. Perhaps he could be inside the whale’s mouth—but not in a way that felt scary—more like a cozy, storybook adventure.

As I refined my sketches, I focused on capturing the innocence of childhood and the warmth of the mother’s vision. This was more than just an illustration; it was a moment in time, a keepsake that would remind them of this fleeting stage of early childhood.

From here, the next steps were clear—finalizing the composition, choosing the perfect color palette, and bringing the story to life on canvas. Every brushstroke would be intentional, infused with the love and thoughtfulness that this piece deserved.

This is the magic of custom art—taking a simple idea and turning it into something unforgettable. And I couldn’t wait to bring this vision to life.