TUMMY MONSTERS
INSPIRATIONPOLYMER CLAY
Shelly Arroyo
Tummy Monsters, © Shelly Arroyo
Years ago, I created a story about a little boy who wanted everything. Each spread of the book featured this little boy getting every wish granted, as his imagination soared. Eventually, as every story like this comes to a close, this child realized he couldn’t have everything he wanted. A tale as old as time, true happiness did not come from never-ending wishes, and he found content in just being himself. His tummy monsters, as I called them, were characters all by themselves. They were ornery and mischievous, eventually aiding in the exhaustion of the little boy. Being King and having everything you wanted truly wasn’t as amazing, as it may seem it would be.
Creating whimsy is always at the top of my list when I create. I love being silly and adding in details to make people smile. (Of course, these tummy monsters got pink hinnies! giggle) Imagining these originally two-dimensional characters become three-dimensional didn’t disappoint. They somehow became even sillier and you could sense the trouble they were in to!
“Trouble In Paradise,” marker and pencil, © Shelly Arroyo
Learning the DSLR in 2022, I was able to add lighting and extra detail to these little creatures and their imaginary surroundings. I love all kinds of illustration, and when I can create something three-dimensional from my drawings, there often is no greater artistic satisfaction.
“Feed Me,” marker and pencil, © Shelly Arroyo
Creating whimsy is always at the top of my list when I create. I love being silly and adding in details to make people smile.
"Character in His Jammies," polymer clay and paper, © Shelly Arroyo
MEET THE AUTHOR
All content and artwork © Shelly Arroyo, A.k.a. Mama Chickpea.
Shelly Arroyo, A.k.a. Mama Chickpea!
I have been a graphic designer excelling in desktop publishing programs, dabbling in web design, and making brand content for twenty years. I have owned my own brick-and-mortar studios, and developed my own brands. Designing user-centric UX, beautiful graphics and meeting deadlines are some of my strongest skills…but don’t forget my killer macaroni and cheese!
PLEASE FOLLOW ME as I embark on a quest to enjoy, learn from, and raise my bamBEANos, in the best way this Mama Chickpea can. Art is my “balance” to life and I enjoy all the DIY therapy I can handle! To learn more about Mama Chickpea, click HERE.
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When I’m not learning something new, I love creating anything arts and crafts, watching comedy, and cuddling with my crew — all alongside being immersed in my love of all things design.
Join me! A journey is always better with friends. 🩷
MY MISSION
© Copyright Mama Chickpea 2026.