If there is one animal that captures the spirit of Minnesota, it's the loon.
Its unmistakable call drifting across a quiet lake is woven into the memories of generations of Minnesotans. For many of us, hearing a loon means summer has arrived. It brings back mornings at the cabin, evenings around a campfire, canoe trips across still water, and the simple joy of being outdoors.
Long before it became Minnesota's state bird, the Common Loon had earned a special place in the hearts of those who call this region home. Its striking black-and-white plumage, vivid red eyes, and graceful movement across the water make it one of North America's most recognizable birds. Yet despite its beauty, the loon also reminds us of the importance of protecting the lakes and wild places that allow it to thrive.
When I began creating the first TAALLA collection, I knew the loon had to be at its center.
Rather than painting a highly realistic portrait, I wanted to distill the loon into its most recognizable forms. I filled sketchbooks with studies, experimenting with silhouettes, proportions, reflections, and color until the designs felt both unmistakably Minnesotan and unmistakably TAALLA. Influenced by Scandinavian design, each piece became an exercise in simplicity—removing unnecessary detail while preserving the character and elegance of the bird.
The Loon Collection has continued to grow beyond fine art prints. What began as a series of illustrations has inspired murals, home décor, apparel, stationery, and a growing collection of products designed to celebrate one of Minnesota's most beloved icons. As the collection expands, I look forward to introducing puzzles, games, textiles, and other pieces that bring the beauty of the loon into everyday life.
Although TAALLA's vision is to create collections inspired by every region of the country, I suspect the loon will always feel like home. It was where this journey began, and it continues to inspire each new design.
For me, the loon isn't simply a subject to illustrate.
It's a reminder that the places we love deserve to be celebrated, protected, and remembered.
I hope this collection helps others carry a small piece of Minnesota home, wherever they may be.
It's been especially rewarding to watch these designs find their way into people's homes. One of the highlights was having my loon artwork selected for a Puzzle Twist Puzzle, now sold through Goose Gang, Amazon, Whole Foods Market, and independent gift shops across the country. Seeing a piece inspired by Minnesota's state bird shared with families in such a playful way has been an exciting milestone for the collection.