Brownlee was the last name of my maternal Grandmother, Barbara. Grandma Barb was an artist who made her mark in hand-lettered sign painting. I remember being a kid, watching her paint big ‘happy birthday’ banners, and grocery store ‘sale’ signs. This was in the 80s, things were different! She didn’t have Photoshop, or a computer, or a printer. She had a shoestring budget, a steady hand, and an eye for detail – and that was exactly what you needed to be successful in the business at the time.

Barbara Jean Brownlee passed away on May 3, 2005.

My grandma knew I was artsy – she kept me stocked with drawing supplies, challenged me and taught me about style, design, and layout, and always encouraged me to do whatever made me happy. Well Grandma, this is it – I’m doing it.