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featured artist

Aubrey Joy

found in
Cozy Cottages

Discover Crayola All Grown Up

“You gotta do what makes you happy.”

- the video game Animal Crossing

Who was your creative inspiration or mentor?

It’s hard for me to pinpoint one single source of inspiration. I look up to a lot of my fellow illustrators, and am constantly inspired to try new techniques, mediums, and subject matters based on what I see folks sharing. I also am very inspired by nature, particularly animals! The world is full of unbelievably unique and colorful critters, and watching them all makes me want to add more whimsy and color to my own work.

Which Creative Moment are you most proud of?

This isn’t a single moment per say, but instead a collection of small moments. In my personal work, I make a lot of illustrations that represent minority communities I’m a part of. When I see folks in these communities resonate with my work - when they tell me they feel seen, or it brought a smile to their face, or they were brought joy by it - that means the world to me. The ability to connect with strangers over silly animal drawings makes me feel prouder than anything!

What challenges have you faced as an artist? 

As a full-time freelance artist, one of my biggest challenges I face is burn out. My entire self-employment centers around social media, which in itself is a beast to learn to navigate and upkeep! It’s hard to constantly fight the battles against algorithms, art theft, & platform updates while also staying creative.

Did you ever think about stopping?

I’ve never thought about stopping - illustration is my passion, and I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. Being able to draw little guys that make folks smile lights a fire under me like nothing else!

How does your creativity impact those around you?

I always try and share joy through my creative work, especially with those around me! I love not only drawing little gifts for friends & family, but also encouraging peers to be creative in their own ways. The world needs more art, and every one of us is capable of creating. Just do it!

What made you the most excited for this Crayola Project?

Animals and cozy things are my absolute favorite subjects to draw! Whether it’s for my own personal illustrations or various projects I’m working on, there’s no doubt that I’ll be drawing a critter or something cute. This project was so exciting to me because I got to fill a whole book with just that!

Tips & Tricks

Follow these tips and tricks for a relaxing creative experience.

  • Absolutely! We've put together these quick tips to help get you started with Crayola Alcohol-Based Markers:

    • Test colors on scrap paper or on the included swatch card(s) before applying to your artwork.

    • For the best blending experience, choose two or three markers within the same color family that share similar intensity and tonal value. Start with the darker color, then laydown the lighter color next to it. Use the lighter color’s brush end to blend and soften where the two colors meet. 

    • Practice layering and blending techniques on simple shapes before tackling detailed art. 

    • Uncoated paper works best.

    Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.

     

  • Crayola Alcohol-based Markers use an alcohol-based ink instead of water-based ink. This gives them:

    • Smooth blending: Colors mix seamlessly for gradients and shading.

    • Vibrant, consistent color: Less streaking

    • Quick drying: Reduces smudging and allows layering with minimal impact to paper

    Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.


  • Yes! Blending is one of the biggest advantages of alcohol-based markers. There are several ways:

    Choose two or three markers within the same color family that share similar intensity and tonal value. Start with the darker color, then laydown the lighter color next to it. Use the lighter color’s brush end to blend and soften where the two colors meet. 

    Alternatively, use a colorless blender marker: Helps soften edges and create smooth transitions. Use where two colors meet to blend together (included in the Crayola 40ct, 60ct, and 120ct sets). It can also be used to lighten darker areas or add highlights, operating similarly to how an eraser works. 

    Layer similar shades: Start with light tones and gradually add darker ones. Allow ink to dry before adding the next layer. 

    Work while wet: Blending is easiest when ink is fresh on the page.

    Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.

  • Absolutely! Alcohol-based Markers work best on paper, but are versatile tools for many creative projects, including:

    • Illustrations and comic art: Ideal for smooth shading and vibrant colors.

    • Card making and scrapbooking: Adds professional-quality color to handmade crafts.

    • Calligraphy and lettering: Great for bold, colorful designs.

    • Mixed media art: Works well with pencils, pens, and even watercolors for layered effects.

    • DIY projects: Customize items like gift tags, planner pages, home décor and decorative accents.

    Just be sure to protect your work surface, and test on inconspicuous areas first to ensure you are satisfied with the outcome on the material. Crayola Alcohol-based Markers contain colorants that may stain and are permanent on most surfaces. 

    Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.

  • • Cap tightly to prevent drying

    • Avoid extreme temperatures

    • Do not store artwork or markers in direct sunlight

    Make sure to check out Crayola’s 20ct, 40ct, 60ct, 80ct and 120ct sets—each include a transformable case that sets up on your desk to display and store your markers at the best angle. 

    Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.

  • Acrylic markers are designed to work on a wide variety of surfaces, making them a versatile choice for many creative projects. They can be used on materials such as wood, glass, metal, plastic, ceramic, paper, canvas, and more.

    These markers deliver bold, opaque color on both light and dark surfaces and can be layered to build depth and coverage.

    For best results:

    • Clean or prep your surface before starting for smoother application
    • Allow paint to dry between layers for best coverage
    • Seal artwork on smooth, non-porous surfaces for added permanency

     

    Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.