Hi there! I'm Alana McCarthy
a Toronto-based artist who loves to create eye-catching and colourful illustrations, designs, and murals.
With over 20 years of experience in the creative industry, I've developed a unique skill set to help businesses and brands stand out from the crowd.
I'm not just an artist, I'm also an expert visual problem solver! I'm super easy to work with and always up for a collaboration! No matter where you are in the world, let's chat about how I can help you with your design needs.
• Illustration - publishing, editorial, advertising
• Packaging design for food, drink and product
• Content creation
• Hand lettering
• Murals - painted and halk
• Graphic design
• Local in-person Paint Nite classes
• Imaginative creative projects
" When we began the process of looking for an illustrator for this book, Alana’s vibrant style made her work distinct. Bringing Alana’s inspired illustrations and professional approach to this team has been remarkable. In addition to her talent, Alana is a creative collaborator who is both responsive and responsible. Working with her on Strum and The Wild Turkeys has been such a celebration of what can happen when someone breathes in your ideas and brings your vision to life in an even more vivid way than could have been imagined. I can’t wait to share our book with the world."
• Noa Daniel, Building Outside the Blocks
"Alana, I’m obsessed with [my book cover!] I can’t stop staring at it, I honestly have nothing to add or any change requests. This cover truly stands out and will stand out amongst similar covers. I can see people scrolling or strolling and seeing my book and buying it. Most importantly, I think the cover captures the message of the story perfectly.
You truly gave me a great debut cover. I can’t wait to write more stories and if your time permits, I’d love to see your artwork on my covers :) I’m so in love with the cover. It’s perfect!
You’re so amazing!''
• Aaron Long, author of No Such Thing as Happy Endings
"Alana, you are awesome! Working with you was amazing! Your creativity, attention to detail, ease of communication, and talent were perfect for this project. As you created the look of the characters, you really brought them to life and were able to create such a kind friendship vibe with them.The illustrations are engaging and the reviews we have received regarding the illustrations have been 5 out of 5 stars. Thank you for working so hard to make this book the best it can be. I look forward to hiring you for a second Lucy and her Unicorn book and will keep you in mind for anyone looking for a talented illustrator."
• Ashley Wall - Mama Bear Books, author of Lucy and her Unicorn Get a Sparkle Puppy
''Wow downright impressive what Alana can do with an idea. I would definitely hire you again for my future projects. I appreciated your responsiveness, patience and constant idea changes I had.
Alana did a fantastic job and created something more beautiful than I imagined. I think her illustrations will blow my father-in-law away for his surprise birthday present.
If you are reading this, hire her quickly because she is that good!''
• Lamar Golden, author of World Coolest Grandpa
"Thanks again, Alana! You got what we were looking for (for our Superbuns logo) from the get-go and it just got better and better with every pass. I appreciate your professionalism and your listening from the very start. I hope you have a fantastic week and I hope to collaborate again! "
• Diane Kredensor, Creator of Superbuns
''Thank you, sweet perfectionist! You captured Mazapán’s poofy brilliance in every way down to her adorable nose. The care and your eye for detail really show and bring the mural to life. I am so THRILLED that people passing by can enjoy this bright spot on our laneway as much as I do. I can’t wait for the kids to see it. I am in awe of your talent and devotion to your work! 🙌❤️ Thank you''
• Dori Aspuro - Takata, Mazapan's Dog Owner
"Alana is a best-in-class professional in creative design. With keen attention to detail and impeccable sense of layout and aesthetics, Alana takes the stress out of deadlines and always delivers on time. Her skills in illustration, calligraphy and typography are what make her a stand-out designer and visual artist. She is a delight to work with, and remarkably creative and talented."
• Cara Bleskie, Development Manager, Nelvana
"We are so appreciative of your technical and creative skills, easy and clear communication, speed and efficiency. We look forward to working with you again in the future!"
• Sally Walker, Yowza! Animation
