“Minnesota Monthly embodies the spirit of the state, celebrating the best arts, entertainment, food, and culture in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and greater MN.”

— Minnesota Monthly Mission Statement

I recently collaborated with Minnesota Monthly magazine to create a branded tote bag. The goal for the final product was a design that embodied the “Spirit of Minnesota.” To achieve this, I incorporated two state symbols in a woodcut-style illustration. As the state bird of Minnesota, with special significance to the indigenous community, the loon is an important symbol of strength, tranquility, and wilderness. L’etoile du Nord (The Star of the North) is a reference to both the Minnesota state moto and flag. The North Star has long symbolized a beacon toward safety, and its inclusion in this design is to give a nod to the state’s unwavering emphasis on community. This bag is an exclusive piece of merchandise at Minnesota Monthly events.