Posts by Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled "Embroidered Life" that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
Illustration
February 25, 2021

Relatable Illustrations Visualize the Happiest and Hardest Parts of Life

Writer and artist Mari Andrew is the friend that dispenses wisdom when you need it the most. Her creative work is vulnerable, a powerful combination of words and images that are infographics for your soul. Andrew's observational art covers topics that are familiar to us all—heartbreak, loss, illness, and just getting through the minutiae of everyday life. Compassion and empathy are at the core of Andrew’s work.

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Paper Art
February 21, 2021

10+ Origami Tutorials You Can Watch and Learn for Free on YouTube

The art of origami has a long place in history and continues to thrive today. For centuries, this creative practice has made its way across the globe as each society has adapted it into its own visual culture. Many contemporary origami artists are pushing the boundaries of paper folding—including a samurai figure that took three months to plan and execute—but don’t let that intimidate you.

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DIY
February 14, 2021

Start Stitching Bead Embroidery With This Essential Supply List and Helpful Tutorials

Beading is typically thought of as a form of jewelry, but it has also proven to be a great material for making 2D art. At its best, countless tiny beads come together to form one incredible image with a shimmery surface and tactile appeal. You too can create your own bead embroidery art and express yourself in all of the glittering colors and varieties that it has to offer. Bead art has existed for centuries.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.