If you’re on the hunt for a unique gift for an animal lover—especially if their name happens to start with the letter “P”—look no further than my latest creation, the ‘P is for Platypus’ mug. This design isn’t just another mug to add to the collection; it’s a celebration of one of nature’s most curious creatures, the platypus, wrapped in a playful, artistic package.
The platypus is an extraordinary animal, and I’ve always been fascinated by its unique blend of characteristics—part bird, part mammal, part reptile, all wonder. This mug captures that sense of wonder with a whimsical design that’s sure to bring a smile to your face every time you reach for your morning coffee or tea. It’s a little piece of art that you can hold in your hands, perfect for animal lovers who appreciate the quirks of nature.
Share a story about the furthest you’ve ever traveled from home.
I’ve never been one to get excited about traveling. The thought of boarding a plane, being confined to small spaces, and navigating through crowds is not my idea of relaxation. If I were to choose a relaxing holiday, I certainly wouldn’t journey to another part of the world. However, the few times I have traveled, I’ve been captivated by the creativity and artistic skill embedded in the history of other cultures.
One of the most memorable trips I’ve taken was from Nairne, South Australia, to Petra, Jordan. The sheer skill and creativity that went into carving tombs, monuments, and dwellings into the sandstone cliffs over 2300 years ago is nothing short of mind-boggling. Standing in Petra, I couldn’t help but wonder about the artists and craftsmen who created these masterpieces. Did they realize their work would span millennia, inspiring awe in people from all over the world?
This experience makes me ponder the future of digital art. As we increasingly move into virtual spaces, creating art that might one day inhabit virtual worlds, I can’t help but wonder if our digital creations will have the same longevity. What if some cataclysmic event wiped out all our digital archives? Could it be that the era of digital art would vanish without a trace, unlike the physical creations of the past?
Perhaps there’s something to be said about returning to more permanent forms of art—statues carved from marble, stories etched in hieroglyphics. These creations tell tales of civilizations long gone and offer a sense of permanence that digital art may never achieve.
So, in answer to the question of how far I’ve traveled, the journey from Nairne to Petra is my furthest. But it’s not just the distance that left an impression on me; it’s the timeless creativity that I encountered along the way. It makes me question what kind of legacy today’s artists, especially digital ones, will leave behind.
In the end, whether you’re sipping from a ‘P is for Platypus’ mug or marveling at the ancient wonders of Petra, there’s a common thread that ties us all together—an appreciation for the art and creativity that enrich our lives and connects us across time.
Kids Book Illustrator Andy C Marshall 