Artist Feature: Ariyana Taylor May 14 2026
Meet the artistsThis month we are thrilled to feature Ariyana Taylor! Ariyana is an African American freelance illustrator based in New York. Her artwork utilizes bright, vibrant colors to depict playful moments and characters.
Ariyana is especially passionate about highlighting Black stories and implements diversity into her work wherever possible. Disney films and anime originally sparked her love for art and storytelling, which has since turned into a lifelong passion. Through her work, Ariyana hopes to inspire others to embrace their own creativity, pick up a pencil, and start drawing!
Some of Ariyana's published work includes Ava’s Pajama Day, written by Angela Allman-Fenty published by Miriam Laundry Publishing; Chameleon Kid, written by Tracy Gunaratnam published by Maverick Arts Publishing; Starship Mystery, written by Amanda Brandon published by Maverick Arts; Black History Heroes: Beyoncé and Black History Heroes: George Washington Carver, both written by Patricia Pete with Ryan G. Van Cleave and published by Bushel & Peck Books; and Bim Blake’s Hot Takes, written by Tolá Okogwu published by Penguin Random House.
Bim Blake’s Hot Takes is among Ariyana's favorite projects she's worked on so far and, for her, the most important. She says working on this book was a complete joy because of its fun heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters. "I love honoring Black stories in my work, so being able to contribute to Bim’s world was especially meaningful to me. It’s the kind of coming-of-age story I would have loved to read as a kid!" She's currently working on is the second installment in the series and can’t wait to illustrate more of Bim’s adventures, which she describes as "akin to books like Dork Diaries and Diary of a Wimpy Kid".
This project focuses on strong character designs, which is something Ariyana values in her creative process. She likes to make sure her characters feel approachable while also reflecting their unique personalities. This is a big part of her drawing process. After the character designs are established, she takes those fun designs and illustrates them to match the humor and heart of the book.
Clients and agents alike enjoy collaborating with Ariyana. She mentions that the team at Advocate has been instrumental in connecting her with publishers, noting that the guidance and support provided have allowed her the space to grow professionally as an illustrator. Check out Ariyana's full portfolio HERE and get in touch with your Advocate agent today to work with Ariyana on your next title!
Advocate Art illustration agency specializes in art licensing and children’s book illustrations. Based in London, Seville, New York, L.A., and Singapore, we represent leading illustrators who produce children's and decorative work to commission or license.