Hi there, and welcome! I’m Stephanie Beischer, the illustrator and surface pattern designer behind Studio 8 Design. I’m so glad you’re here.
Gathered at Studio 8 is my little corner of the internet for creativity, inspiration, and the practical know-how I’ve collected over the years. Think of it as a cozy place to pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and see what’s been happening in the studio.
A Little About Me
I’ve been drawing for as long as I could hold a crayon, and choosing a creative career was never really a question. For more than 25 years I worked in both graphic design and illustration, including time as a package designer, where I learned how art comes to life on real products.
In 2020, I made the leap to full-time illustration, because that’s where my true love of art has always been. That’s also when I discovered surface pattern design. I still can’t believe I didn’t know it existed sooner! I haven’t looked back since.
My work is all about nostalgia, family, and the cozy, happy moments that make life feel a little more magical. And if you spend any time here, you’ll quickly learn that animals are my favorite thing to illustrate. They find their way into almost everything I create.
Why “Gathered at Studio 8”?
The name says just what I hope this space will be: good things gathered together in one place, right here in my studio. Ideas, inspiration, stories, and lessons learned from years of making art for products, packaging, and brands.
Everything I share here falls into three simple ideas:
Wander is for the places that inspire me, from travel sketches to the wildlife right outside my studio window.
Make is for the hands-on side of things, like crafts, gifting, and creative ways to bring art into your home.
Create is for the art itself, from first sketches to finished designs, along with what I’ve learned along the way.
Some posts will spark your creativity, some will teach you something new, and some will simply give you a peek into my world.
What You’ll Find Here
I’m writing for a few different kinds of readers, and you’re welcome in all of it.
Behind the Scenes
Sneak peeks at my sketches, works in progress, and the inspiration behind my designs. You’ll see how an idea grows from a rough sketch into a finished illustration or pattern.
Travel Sketches
When we travel, I love to illustrate the places we visit. I’ll share my sketches alongside photos from the trip, so you can see the real places that inspired the art.
Crafts and Creative Ideas
I’m working on craft projects and creative ways to bring art into your home and your gifting. These take a little time to plan, so stay tuned.
For Businesses Hiring an Illustrator
Honest, practical guidance on finding and working with an illustrator: how to choose the right one, what to ask, and how to make a project go smoothly from start to finish.
For Companies Interested in Licensing
Insight into how art licensing works from the artist’s side and what makes a successful partnership.
A Peek Into the Studio
My studio overlooks a pond, and I’m never short on company. Deer, geese, coyotes, and more squirrels than I can count stop by throughout the day, which might explain why animals show up in my work so often. Inside, my three dogs, a lab and two Boston Terriers, are usually curled up next to my desk while I work. They’re excellent studio companions, even if they’re not much help with deadlines.
Let’s Stay Connected
I’ll be sharing a new post here every week, and I’d love for you to come along.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER for a note in your inbox every week or two with new posts, studio updates, and inspiration. Subscribers will also be the first to know when my own line of goods launches down the road.
Follow me on Instagram at @studio8design.illustration for new work, works in progress, and everyday moments from the studio.
Thank you so much for stopping by. I can’t wait to share what’s next.
Stephanie