Behind the Portfolio: Ane Arzelus Shares Their Journey from Creative Child to Creative Professional
We recently had the pleasure to sit down with illustrator Ane Arzelus to learn about their journey to becoming a sought after illustrator and designer. Read about their experiences and words of advice for creatives just starting out.
When did you first know you wanted to be an illustrator?
I was a creative child that turned into a creative teenager who debated whether to study Psychology or Fine Arts, and the Fine Arts won! I was an avid reader too so any interaction with images and texts fascinated me.
Award-Winning Illustration from i2i Art
It’s awards season and we have lots to celebrate at i2i Art! Our illustrators have been knockin’ it out of the park all year long with stunning artwork that has garnered attention from judges across multiple publications. Exploring themes of nature, wildlife, books, sports, travel and so much more, each artist carries a deep connection to their illustration and the underlying concepts.
Enjoy this selection of award-winning illustration by Carl Wiens, Dave Murray, Andrea Cheung and Daria Lada.
Getting Creative with Illustrator Katy Dockrill
Welcome to Toronto’s east end! Katy Dockrill takes us on a tour of her beloved studio, filled with natural light, a furry companion and lots of creative energy. It’s easy to see what keeps Katy inspired and illustrating.
Where is your studio?
In Toronto, on the second floor of our home, with a window that is east facing. It used to be a bedroom, but we converted it.
Monika Melnychuk illustrates for The Tragically Hip ABC book
Iconically Canadian, The Tragically Hip are one of the nations most cherished bands. Their latest venture, The Tragically Hip ABC children’s book brings hit songs to fans in a new way. Published by Tundra, the book features cover and interior illustration by Monika Melnychuk, alongside three other Canadian artists. Monika has a knack for creating quirky characters with loads of personality. Her lifelike animals are even more entertaining and engaging when accompanied by the band’s legendary lyrics
Katy Dockrill illustrates City of Neighbors
Step into the hustle and bustle of City of Neighbors, the latest book illustrated by Katy Dockrill and written by Andrea Curtis. As the next book in the award-winning Think Cities series published by Groundwood Books, City of Neighbors explores what makes certain cities special. Katy’s charming figures fill the pages, playing, laughing and establishing a sense of community. Her beautiful brushwork highlights city parks, playgrounds and painted murals, showcasing just a few inclusive ideas that can bring public spaces to life.
Welcome illustrator Kuba Ferenc
We’d like to give a warm i2i Art welcome to incredibly talented conceptual illustrator, Kuba Ferenc. Graphically composed and wonderfully compelling, Kuba’s illustration offers a unique perspective. Passionate about communicating complex ideas his work is well thought out and meticulously constructed. Addressing a variety of topics from politics to psychology, Kuba’s sophisticated yet subtle use of forms, shading and colour bring his illustration to life.
Tim Zeltner illustrates for Harlequin Enterprises
Murder mysteries with a twist. Tim Zeltner puts his unique folk art spin on a series of covers for Harlequin Enterprises. Art directed by the amazing creative team at Harlequin, these inviting covers offer a glimpse of what’s to come. Wander through each scene and get lost in the charming details and hidden gems buried among the brushstrokes.
Mark Hoffmann illustrates portraits
From acclaimed-authors to WWE wrestlers, Mark Hoffmann illustrates a few of the world’s greatest. Always charming, Mark's folksy style shines a light on each with wit and whimsy. Painterly strokes and subtle textures add depth to these disarmingly unconventional portraits. Thoughtful details and expressions highlight the personality and quirks of these famous folks. At his best when playful, it’s clear that Mark enjoys painting people.
Talya Baldwin illustrates Not the End of the World
Illustrator Talya Baldwin takes us to St. Kilda, Scotland in her recent book, Not the End of the World. Ethereal landscapes and evocative portraits paint a picture of the history, environment and wildlife in a place often referred to as ‘the end of the world’. Signature to her style, Talya’s stunning watercolour technique combined with her unpretentious writing reveals an important story of the land and the uniqueness of a community that once was.
Welcome Illustrator Migy Blanco
Starting the new year with a bang! Please join us in welcoming wonderfully talented illustrator Migy, we are delighted for him to join the i2i Art roster! With art that packs a punch, his dynamic characters and unique lettering are truly captivating. Migy’s visual style combines paint, ink, and digital, adding layers of vibrant colour and texture that offer a fresh, bold, and eye-catching quality. Incredibly fun and wildly entertaining Migy’s illustrations are sure to take you on a thrilling adventure!