Wanderlust, the stencil series by Nathalie Kalbach

Here are the people and these are the stencils!

StencilGirl is thrilled to present the Wanderlust series by Nathalie Kalbach -- perfect for creating graphic backgrounds and layering in your mixed media work.

How can you help but applaud the challenge and confidence of this first journal spread?!

Chicago Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by Nathalie's travels in Chicago. In this modern city, the unique Prairie Style of Frank Lloyd Wright has found its way into ironwork designs, onto building facades, and into the artistic details of the mass transportation system. The interlocking linear designs look like a contemporary take on patterns found in nature. This stencil is an homage to that style.

Manhattan Stencils in 9x12 and 4x4
These stencils were inspired by Nathalie's neighbor and constant muse, New York City, and specifically the borough of Manhattan. For the most part, Manhattan has been built around a neat and tidy grid of streets and avenues, and this stencil refers to that pattern of regularity. Of course, Manhattan is also the City that Never Sleeps, so this stencil captures that electric vibe too. 

New Orleans Stencil in 9x12 and 4x4
These stencils were inspired by the beautiful wrought iron balconies, gates, and fences known as "Iron Lace" in and around the city of New Orleans. Add a bit of Victorian style, old world Spanish tradition, or French Creole flair with this pattern.

Granada Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by the alluring tile patterns Nathalie saw while traveling in Granada, Spain. The Moors of North Africa brought their culture and artistic influence to the region in the Middle Ages and the style has endured. 

Kassel Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by the modern elements that can be found in Kassel, Germany, home to the Documenta art fair for modern and contemporary art. This interlocking design combines elements of geometry and optical illusions in the pattern.

Amsterdam Stencils 9x12 and 6x6
These stencils were inspired by the beautiful and progressive city of Amsterdam. In her travels, Nathalie found lush markets overflowing with bundles of tulips and flowers, and old and new architectural styles living side-by-side. This stencil captures the harmony between the past and present and the natural and manmade worlds in an intriguing way. 

You can check out StencilGirl's Scoop and see more of the smart, savvy women Nathalie painted into her journal. Watch your your email or check out Nathalie's page on SGP 

They are incredible. Here is a preview of one:

Mesa Verde Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by Nathalie's travels through the American Southwest and the landscape, architecture, and artwork that she encountered along the way. This beautifully modern interpretation of native designs will transport you to the desert mesa.  

Keep an eye on Nathalie's Studio in the coming weeks for more tutorials and art based on her Wanderlust stencils!

Hamburg Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by Nathalie's hometown of Hamburg, Germany. The "H" in the inter-locking pattern refers to the city abbreviation of HH for Hansestadt Hamburg, and is found on license plates in the city. 

Versailles Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by the opulent beauty of the Palace of Versailles in France. Add some floral femininity with this pattern, and imagine yourself strolling through the lavish gardens of royalty. 

Santa Fe Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by Nathalie's travels through the American Southwest and the landscape, architecture, and artwork that she encountered along the way. This funky and playful pattern will transport you to a desert oasis of style.

Beacon Stencil 9x12
This stencil was inspired by the gorgeous Art Deco era buildings known as The Beacon in Jersey City. These towers sit on a hilltop not far from where Nathalie lives, and can be seen from miles around in the night sky. Just as a beacon guides travelers on their way and provides safe passage to ships in the night, this stencil offers a radial, starburst style design to call attention to your art.

Nathalie used her stencils to create intense, vibrant backgrounds. How will you use them?