Rooted in the Wild. Flexible in the Making.

Willowmark Studio began with a simple love for mountains and making. Back in the early days as Westward Threads, my art was centered on handcrafted, mountain-themed embroidery — tiny peaks stitched one thread at a time. Those threads soon flowed into watercolor landscapes and house portraits, celebrating the places we call home.

As my work grew, so did the stories I wanted to tell. I found myself drawn into the forest — to friendly bears, curious foxes, determined hedgehogs, and the tiniest adventurer of all, Danger Mouse. These whimsical woodland companions became a way to blend narrative and nature, imagination and warmth.

Over time, I transitioned from traditional watercolor to digital hand-painting, using an iPad as a modern canvas. But while the tools have evolved, the heart of my process remains the same:

Every illustration is painted by hand, one thoughtful brushstroke at a time.

The studio’s new name — Willowmark — reflects this shift. Willows bend with change. They represent resilience, creativity, and roots in nature. And “mark” honors each brushmark and story moment that builds a world piece by piece.

Today, Willowmark Studio is where playful characters meet Pacific Northwest inspiration — where art is made to spark smiles, cozy feelings, and a sense of wonder in the everyday.

Welcome to the forest — I'm so glad you’re here.

— Christie Herndon, Artist & Storyteller