It was Grey in Dundee today... overcast, nippy and with that weird type of all-day twilight you only seem to get in the weeks after Christmas. Even the ‘Silvery' Tay, (the river that I can see from my desk window) looked distinctly charcoal. As if a reflection of the dismal weather, my inspiration seemed to be lacking. After 2 hours of staring at a blank sheet of paper and several pots of coffee later, I was on a caffeine high and skipping out the door on a quest for ‘Inspiration Salvation'.

I headed to the Art School library at Duncan of Jordanstone, a haven of graphic design journals, typography catalogues and illustrated Classics from throughout the ages. So, here's a sneaky peek of some of the gems I carried home from the library:

I love Botanical Illustration books, there's just something about the scientific attention to detail in recording every single little feature of a flower that appeals to me. I must have inherited the Botanist's genes from my Grandparents.

Czech artist Mucha's work is full of detail and art nouveau beauty. I love it.

Despite the fact I champion the hand drawn line and steer away from the computer as much as possible, I love Computer Arts Magazine. Jam packed with images and articles which inspire even the most pixel-phobic designer.

Once back at my desk, I continued my quest on the Web, scouring the design blogs and Media websites for images of the weird and wonderful which would fill my frazzled little grey brain with ideas. Here's the highlights:

Saipua's contemporary take on floristry. Forget lumps of oasis and manky old carnations, these blooms are in Flower Heaven. Also, anyone who describes their mother as "a full-fledged sugar nazi" deserves a mention.

Ralph Steadman was brought to my attention by a certain Brewer. The American illustrator is probably best known for his labels for Flying Dog Brewery but he also illustrated his own darkly delicious version of Alice in Wonderland.

I was lucky enough to exhibit the same week as Lucy Schofield at Origin a couple of years ago. Not only does she make the most wonderful little books which could melt the heart of an Ice Queen, she also has a talent with words and writes the most lovely blog. 

That ought to be enough to be getting on with for now...