Iris Apfel: In Her Closet
I created a series of illustrated playing cards as a reimagining of the classic game Old Maid. The project pays tribute to the late, great fashion icon Iris Apfel, known for her bold outfits and signature oversized glasses. Instead of traditional occupations, each card features an item from Apfel’s eclectic wardrobe, inspired by different seasons. This unique approach not only celebrates her iconic style but also introduces young players to her influence on fashion and design. I hand-illustrated every element in Procreate and also hand-lettered each piece, adding a personal touch to every card. The project has inspired me to expand it into a full deck and potentially gamify the experience through an interactive online version or matching game. Pushing myself beyond my comfort zone, particularly with pattern mixing, allowed me to deepen my understanding of Apfel’s contributions while growing as an illustrator. While this style may not define my work entirely, I found the process deeply engaging and was able to refine my detailing skills quicker than in previous projects.
-
Procreate, Illustrator, Photoshop
-
Illustration, Package Design
-
Elaine Cunfer
-
Blood, Sweat, & Illustration Group Exhibition, Kutztown, PA, January 2025










