Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.
Playful, bold, and colourful art that engages, delights, and tells stories.
What items are an essential part of your creative space?
My computer, Wacom tablet, notepad and pen, a glass of water, and a pet - whether a dog by my feet or a guinea pig in my lap!
Do you have a favourite artistic medium?
For most commercial work, I prefer to create art digitally using Illustrator and Photoshop. This allows me to experiment, develop multiple versions, and edit quickly. However, I love painting murals and hope to do more work in this area.
Name three artists whose work inspires you.
Alex Proba – incredible interior and exterior artwork/design
Lesley Barnes – beautiful 2D and 3D creations
Owen Davey – lovely depictions of nature
Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why?
I’d love to visit Bihar, India, in the 14th century to witness the creation of Mithila (Madhubani) art. I first encountered it on a college trip and fell in love with its vibrant folk tradition, playful patterns, and bold colours. The intricate designs and storytelling blew my mind and are still a source of inspiration.
Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?
My family always loved reading together, and we especially like Bill Peet’s books which featured lots of animals and rhyming text. But it was the expressive illustrations that really drew me in. I wanted to create something as magical as that myself.
Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it.
I have two work areas in my office. One side features a long desk I share with my husband where I answer emails, take calls, and do quick art edits. The other side has a full-wall mural I painted - a stylized landscape with an airplane, since my husband teaches aviation. This desk has my larger Wacom tablet and an adjustable height feature to switch between sitting and standing, to preventing as much back and arm strain as possible. The rug is my dog’s go-to spot :)
What is your favourite part of the illustration process?
That’s a tough one! My favourite part is the early creative stage when things are starting to come together but before I dive into details or share it with partners. It’s a time to play, experiment, and push myself to try new things and keep learning!
That’s a tough one! My favourite part is the early creative stage when things are starting to come together but before I dive into details or share it with partners. It’s a time to play, experiment, and push myself to try new things and keep learning!
What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
Keep practicing and keep creating! Don’t get lost in social media - focus on your own process and what excites you! I’ve also found that the things I create for myself often end up being what clients ask me to create later on.
Allison Black is an illustrator and designer known for her bold, playful style. She transforms simple ideas into joyful, market-ready products, including children’s books, toys, murals, and more! She lives in Ohio with her husband, 2 young kids, and lots of fur babies.
For more information please visit Allison's website or follow her instagram.
For more information please visit Allison's website or follow her instagram.
