Hello everyone! The countdown to Christmas is upon us. I was in the mood for finding some Christmas goodness in the illustration world, and I was also poking around the world of female illustrators. Something about Christmas and the female spirit hits home for me. I feel like my mom was the gatekeeper of Christmas for me when I was a child, and now as a mom myself, I love creating rituals and traditions (and crafting!) with my kids. When I started scouting around the world of female illustrators, I stumbled on the work of Salini Perera, a woman who draws in a mix of mediums and even has an illustrated Christmas book with the 12 Days of Christmas. Let’s go take a peek! – Jen

I personally have a soft spot for any whimsical, illustrated depiction of the 12 Days of Christmas. A few years back, I bought a set of ornaments from the Land of Nod featuring the 12 Days of Christmas, and they’re still some of my favorite ornaments for the tree. I love Salini’s version of a partridge in a pear tree.

What a pitch-perfect color palette for these illustrated three french hens.

She’s inspired by folk art, vintage children’s books, and you do get a sense of nostalgia looking through some of her work — yet her illustrations still feel modern.

Here’s a whimsical, modern map of Canada, where Salini now calls home. I like her use of color for the map — it’s more spare so that all the details don’t get lost.

Besides how awesome this fun girl-on-a-horse illustration is, I think it’s totally awesome that Salini draws women with real bodies. Growing up, I honestly don’t think I saw an illustrated woman with hips.

Here’s hoping your countdown to Christmas is filled with many good things. Thanks for following along this look into illustrator Salini Perera’s work!

Photo Credits: Salini Perera Illustration and Salini Perera on Instagram