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An illustration of a landscape created with undulating, organic lines in gold on a black background. The word “Islands” is written in a simple script across the centre.

One of the most beautiful things to have ever come through It's Nice That's door – Brendan Monroe's Islands

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Date
17 December 2012

In this second instalment of what was once labelled in It’s Nice That as “The most beautiful thing we have ever got the door” there is no doubt in our minds that the charm-factor is still set to high. Brendan Monroe, a painter, sculptor and storyteller from Oakland, California, is responsible for quite literally blowing us away with his two publications. Small, unassuming and exquisitely designed, these books tell silent tales of love, space, nature and creation.

For just six dollars (yes, six dollars) you can be transported to a dark beach where two lovers meet at the dead of night and recreate what can only be described as the birth of the universe. It’s almost unbelievable that this publication isn’t more famous than it is. Stuck for present ideas this Christmas? There’s just about time for you to buy this for someone – just make sure they’re a particularly special someone.

A black and white illustration of a figure lying face down across a bed, their body trailing onto the floor. Cursive text at the bottom reads “later that same night”.
Above

Brendan Monroe: Islands

A black and white illustration of a person walking past a tall, blocky building with rows of small windows. Bare trees and patches of snow frame the scene.
Above

Brendan Monroe: Islands

A black and white comic strip showing two figures in a choppy sea. In the final panels, one person hands a small object to another, with the text “hi” and “here, take this”.
Above

Brendan Monroe: Islands

A black and white illustration of two cars parked on a curved road. Behind them stand tall, leafless trees and a plain building with rows of dark windows.
Above

Brendan Monroe: Islands

A square print featuring a pattern of thin, black undulating lines on a brown background. The lines curve and dip in the centre to create the 3D effect of a deep hole.
Above

Brendan Monroe: Islands

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About the Author

Liv Siddall

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Liv joined It’s Nice That as an intern in 2011 and worked across online, print and events, and was latterly Features Editor before leaving in May 2015.

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