Megan McCormick
In 2008, David LaFerriere made up his mind to shock his kids at school, illustrating on the sandwich bags he packed in their meals.
The kids loved it, so he kept drawing.
Every day at lunch they’re greeted with a new creation that their dad has made for them.
Not to mention a fun reminder that lets them know their dad is thinking about them while he’s at work.
Sometimes his drawings are very straightforward.
With some graphic-design humor sprinkled in, since that’s Ferriere’s occupation.
Sometimes his drawings transform the way that you see the sandwich itself.
Like when the bread becomes a creature.
Or a lilypad for a frog to hang out on.
Or a den for a bear drinking its morning coffee.
Or a different lunch altogether.
Or one that’s been partially eaten already.
Sometimes his drawings get philosophical.
Or inquisitive.
Sometimes they’re just downright clever.
I mean, really, look at that bubble incorporation!
Inspired bubble incorporation brings characters to life.
Downright tricky fake-out maneuvering makes a sandwich look like a sandwich even though… it’s a sandwich.
Birthdays are celebrated on the bags.
Other holidays, too.
Halloween gets its mention.
So does Thanksgiving.
Lately there’s been some Christmas sandwiches.
Even American Snowman Gothic has made an appearance.
Dave’s work has been featured on Sharpie’s website and his following has grown, as more online artists have taken notice of his work.
He says that despite the fame he’s gained from the project, the drawings he makes will always be primarily an act of love for his sons.
“The sandwich bags are something that my boys and I share together,” he told flickr. “But the comments people leave about a parent doing something similar really touches me, because there are other parents that love their kids just as much. And they love them enough to leave a little note, a little whatever it may be… that’s just something that brightens their day when they get to their lunch.”
Now five years after that first drawing was made, he has created over one thousand lunchtime surprises, cataloging them all on Flickr.
David says the most touching comments he receives are from parents who do similar things for their kids… just because they love them.
Ultimately, time is the most valuable resource we have and spending it on the people we love most is vitally important. Share this if you think we need more dads like David!
This is a most wonderful post! I honor this father and his drawings. All too often we live mundane lives and live between the lines. Boring!
Absolutely fantastic!