You could think of Field Notes as my “blog” of observations. Periodically peek into my sketchbook, eavesdrop on my conversations, get a glimpse of my projects — and lens on life in Silicon Valley. 

Roaring 20’s Grand Reopening Party Promos (2021)
Projects Lisa Van Dusen Projects Lisa Van Dusen

Roaring 20’s Grand Reopening Party Promos (2021)

As people were emerging from their COVID-19 cocoons in the summer and early fall of 2021, the Woman’s Club of Palo Alto wanted to create energy and anticipation for their “grand reopening” with a roaring 20s party. This series offered a playful way to entice members to a festive, yet safe in-person gathering. The event was a huge success.

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Call of the Valley: The Enduring Lure of Sonoma (2019)
Projects Lisa Van Dusen Projects Lisa Van Dusen

Call of the Valley: The Enduring Lure of Sonoma (2019)

In 2019, documentary film producer Julie Morrison reached out when she realized that there were a number of necessary visuals for her film which she had no way to represent.  I sprang into action creating maps of tribal groups, a cartoon about the decimation of phylloxera, and a likeness of J. Hunter Thompson, collaborating closely with Julie to fill some visual gaps caused by copyright constraints, missing historical records and other limitations. To learn more about this project, visit Call of the Valley: The Enduring Lure of Sonoma.

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Why Not NOT Drive?: An Empowering Guide to Letting Go of the Wheel (2018)
Projects Lisa Van Dusen Projects Lisa Van Dusen

Why Not NOT Drive?: An Empowering Guide to Letting Go of the Wheel (2018)

Many of us have been there with a loved one when it seems like time for them to hang up their car keys. That time came with my mom in 2018, then newly 90. My sisters and I were at our wits end and wanted to find a way using visuals and humor to give her motivation and agency in making the transition from driving herself to the joys of getting around through other means. Ask me how it all worked out.

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