About Me
Hi, I’m Mel, and I am an illustrator and designer with a big love for stories, creatures, and all things a little bit magical. I create character-driven illustrations, book covers, and artwork that blends traditional techniques, such as linocut printing and painting, with clean, expressive digital design.I enjoy combining illustration with graphic design, mixing expressive visuals with clear structure and strong storytelling. Whether I’m building a world for a children’s book or crafting a bold visual identity, I aim to make work that feels meaningful, creative, and full of character.I balance life as a stay-at-home mum with my creative practice (and a steady supply of coffee). I studied UAL Graphic Design and Illustration (BA Hons) at the University Centre South Essex (Southend Campus), where even my love of baking, art, music and reading found its way into my projects, as creativity and curiosity always go hand in hand for me.
Toko's Adventure
I grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa, where folklore and storytelling were part of everyday life. That early inspiration helped shape Toko’s Adventures, my illustrated picture book about a shy and lonely Tokoloshe who travels the world to help his sick grandmother get better. It’s a project close to my heart and a great example of the kind of art I love - a bit quirky and a whole lot of cute.Below are some of the characters from the book:
Toko (Main Character)
Gogo & Baby Toko (South Africa)
Curupira (Brazil)
Rakshasa (India)
Basajaun (Spain)
Boggart (England)
Jumbee (Caribbean)
Kappa (Japan)
Jersey Devil (USA)
Selfie
Baking with Sodas
"Baking with Sodas" is a delightful nod to the past. Inspired by the vintage recipe cards grandma used to have, this collection offers a unique twist on classic baking recipes by combining different cake mixes with soda drinks.Below are the illustrations from the recipe cards:
The Seven Ravens
The book cover for "The Seven Ravens" is a striking and evocative design that captures the essence of the classic fairy tale. The cover features a dramatic illustration of seven ravens soaring through the night sky, their silhouettes stark against the moonlit backdrop.
The Luxe App
A logo and app icon for a B2B jewellery site "The Luxe App", a robust web-based stock management system tailored for the jewellery industry.
War Born
My entry for the 2025 D&AD War Child, Secret 7' Vinyl Cover Brief.I chose War Born, to depict my interpretation of The Cure's "War Song". I hoped to convey the impact of war on children who are born into those volatile environments - something no child should experience.Below are some other illustrations I did for this brief, but did not use:
Broken Dreams
Life and Death
Gremlin Energy
Unleash your inner gremlin with Gremlins Energy! This isn't your ordinary energy drink - it's a fruity, monster-powered potion that'll have you soaring through the day. Made with all-natural ingredients.
D&AD 2024
My entry piece for the D&AD New Blood Awards 2024. I chose the Universal Music Brief.
Liminal Spaces
A tourist booklet for the London Transport Museum showcasing the daily noises of the underground.Below are some more mixed-media images from the booklet:
Central Line
Circle Line
Jubilee Line
Northern Line
Piccadilly Line
Spotlight Multimedia
A social media banner to promote the range of courses offered by Spotlight Multimedia, in partnership with Havering College.
Rock Queen
This magazine cover showcases a bold and eye-catching design that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of the rock music scene. The typography is bold and impactful, with the title "ROCK QUEEN" dominating the cover in a striking font.
Gallery Showcase - Penguin Books
Daisy Jones
Another competition piece for Penguin Cover Design Award, 2024.
Design System Submission (2025)
My entries to the Penguin Book Cover Competition to design a book cover system.
Contact me
If you're interested in collaborating on graphic design or illustration projects, feel free to reach out! I'm always excited to connect with new clients and bring creative visions to life. Use the links below to get in touch, and let's create something amazing together.
© Mel Ginsberg