Homegrown Patterns — Kasha Speno

I drew the patterns featured in the homepage header of this site to illustrate my sense of place. Each is inspired by somewhere I have lived. 
I see pattern recognition and creation as a significant part of any design, so in addition to conveying a bit about the places that influence me, the patterns are an apt metaphor for the kinds of work I enjoy.

Colorado

I grew up in Colorado. The aspen leaves and columbine flowers in these patterns reference the flora that remind me of home.
I wanted the majority of the patterns to have a slightly Victorian feel, reminiscent of the old hotels and saloons that were a part of the Narrow Gauge Train Station and Main Street I grew up with.

*Exploring color and scale variations for my columbine patterns*

*A few of my reference photos from time at home*

Hawai’i

I taught sixth grade on O’ahu. It was my first job in education out of college. I’ve spent as much time in Hawai’i as I’ve been able ever since. The artistry of Hawaiian lei, vintage mu’u mu’u fabrics, and the easy growing conditions inspired these patterns.

Arranging flower sketches in Procreate

Some of my flora photos used for reference

San Francisco

After Hawai’i, I moved to San Francisco. I’ve only ever lived out by Ocean Beach, and I drew these patterns based on the ice plant that grows along the Great Highway. I know it isn’t native to the area, but its blooms and winding legs have always been a part of my experience here. Since I’ve always loved the Asian influence in the Outer Sunset and the city itself, I wanted to reference the beauty of vintage Japanese indigo fabrics in these patterns.