About

Salutations

My name is Shayna Sell and I’m an illustrator and creator living outside Detroit, Michigan.

When I was growing up, my mom always had a solution if I ever complained of boredom: read a book or draw something (but secretly I hoped she would let me watch TV) I’ve been drawing ever since and reading too.

As an artist, I believe that life is too short and messy for boring. Whether that means creating a playful pattern for gift wrap or a colorful piece of wall art, my goal is to inject fun and personality into the objects we interact with every day. Humor, authenticity, and a healthy dose of kindness are key parts of my artwork and business.

I’m available for both freelance illustration and art licensing opportunities for products. Points of inspiration include vintage travel brochures, mid-century advertising, botanical illustration, and good food. I love to make things with my hands, incorporating handmade textures and line work, even when working digitally.

I’m also a big believer in lifelong learning and sharing knowledge. As a teacher on Skillshare I get to do that everyday.

When I’m not working, you can find me in the garden or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.

Illustrator Shayna Sell
A drawing of a hand sprinkling abstract pieces of salt.
WORK

Art with a pinch of salt.

Salt means flavor, surprise, levity, grit, perspective, and balance. A world without play and creativity is like a world without salt.

View Portfolio

I’ve never worked with an illustrator before, what does that look like?

All illustrations start out with your vision.

  1. We’ll go through your ideas and goals via email or a Zoom meeting for more complex projects and I’ll ask any important questions.
  2. You’ll get a timeline for the project and initial terms and pricing. Once we’re on the same page, I’ll get to work!
  3. I’ll provide you with rough drafts for feedback.
  4. Once you tell me what you like or what needs to be changed, I’ll work on updates and send you revised work. (Depending on project terms, we can also negotiate more rounds of edits.)
  5. When you’re happy with the final design, I will send you final files in the formats you need. Nice doing business with you!