Education:
OCAD University, Illustration program 2020–2024
Experience:
Independent Picture Book Illustrator
2021–present
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Hi, I’m Sarah Johnston! I’m an independent 2D illustrator, comic artist, and character designer who specializes in digital media. I graduated from Toronto’s OCAD University in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in Design, and I am currently based in Springwater Ontario, Canada. By day I focus my work on story and character illustrations, always looking for as many new creative learning opportunities as I can, while by night I am a video gaming nerd, cat mom, and spending lots of fun time with my loved ones.
In my art, I am the most inspired by vibrant cartoons, emotional expression, and compelling visual narratives. I landed into the picture book industry with my first illustrated project in 2022: Kate and the Dragon, a children’s book written by independent author Val Murray. Prior to that, I was the sole recipient of the Excellence in the Arts award in a graduating class of roughly 400 students from Bear Creek Secondary School (Barrie ON). Since then my work has been featured at various events such as the Toronto Comic Arts Festival 2023, and the Newmarket Public Library’s “Storywalk” installation.
Moving forward, I am eager to share as many new experiences & creative narratives for viewers to enjoy as I can! I’ll be continuing to expand my digital practices, primarily with Adobe Photoshop, and sharing more of my work online as it is made, so please keep an eye out if you’re interested. To see more updates or sneak peeks on my work, you can find me at the following social media handles:
More Background
Growing up, I read countless picture books and graphic novels, always captivated by the colourful illustrations and fun character designs. From the moment I could hold a marker I was drawing messy fan art of all of my favourite book and cartoon characters, or vandalizing my own books by doodling brand new characters going on adventures alongside the illustrated ones. Fictional media has always been a very great inspiration, and as I paved the path to become an illustrator just like all of my old favourites, I also hope that I might be that inspiration for many young creative minds today. More than anything, I seek to return the favour for what illustrations and cartoons gave to me growing up, and to bring some happiness to as many people as I can!