Hello!

Originally from Vancouver, I've been based in Toronto since 2010, where I work as an illustrator, cartoonist, and writer.

I work both digitally and with ink and watercolour — capturing places, people, and moments with whimsy.

In my personal work, I focus on spaces of queer connection and joy as well as scenes of urban life. I’m fascinated by the ever-changing city around me and try to capture scenes with narrative depth as opposed to a static image.

Since 2015 I've also drawn hundreds of custom personal illustrations for people: childhood homes, first date spots, family portraits, storefronts, and more.

On the client side, I've worked with Absolut Vodka, Environmental Defence, the LCBO, The 519 Community Centre, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Bell Media, and others. My illustrations have appeared in Toronto Life, The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Chatelaine, Maisonneuve, and THIS Magazine, and within two books. In March 2025, my work was shown at Hashtag Gallery in Mexico City as part of a month-long residency.

I also sell prints and greeting cards in my online shop. You can reach me at jake@jaketobin.ca or follow along on Instagram.

photo by Shawn Bracke