I take inspiration where I find it. And I seem to find it most everywhere, from Christmas to Easter, from Halloween to Valentine’s, Disney to Peanuts. And it doesn’t have to be some grand concept or special occasion to draw my interest. I’m fascinated with birds and butterflies, cats and dogs, and I’ve been known to use seahorses, dragonflies, even donkeys as subjects for my art. The world is a beautiful place, full of complexity and detail, it’s all there for us if only we take the time to look. It’s my job as an artist to render that in ways that create insights and connection, using the images that surround us to portray our shared experience.

Which brings me to pajamas. Today is something called National PJ Day. Who knew? But it made me think how I’ve used pajamas in my work over the years. Here’s some examples, everything from Christmas morning to Mickey and Minnie, Angel and Stitch, and of course the Peanuts gang.

There’s something universal about pajamas, we’ve all worn them, we’ve all felt cozy and comfortable in them. They’re a symbol we all relate to, a source of warmth, security and familiarity we all share. They can even be a source of celebration! In our family pajamas are a Christmas morning tradition, all of us dressed in matching pajamas, opening presents and sneaking candy from stockings. It’s a holiday outfit I wouldn’t trade for the world. So here’s to pajamas, a cozy staple in our lives… and an inspiration for my art!

Happy PJ Day!