Alexis Eke is an illustrator & designer. Inspired by renaissance portraits, her faith and earth tones — she aims to increase the representation of black women in design and offer a space for deep reflection.
In the heart of Toronto, a unique artistic voice emerges, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Renaissance yet profoundly modern in its mission. Alexis Eke, an illustrator and designer, is reshaping the visual landscape with her evocative portraits and thoughtful design. Drawing inspiration from Renaissance art, traditional Japanese aesthetics, and her own faith, Eke is dedicated to increasing the representation of Black women in design and providing a space for profound introspection.
“I knew I wanted to be some type of artist since I was in elementary school. “
Eke’s work is characterized by its distinct style and thematic depth. Her portfolio includes collaborations with high-profile clients such as Adidas, Bloomberg, Google, Nike Jordan, the Toronto Raptors, and Shea Moisture. Despite this commercial success, the essence of Eke’s artistry lies in her deeply personal approach to representation and her commitment to fostering reflection.
Central to Eke’s aesthetic is her use of warm, muted earth tones that pay homage to the richness of the natural world. Her portraits predominantly feature Black women, rendered with a meticulous attention to detail. The soft blush and brown hues that permeate her work are not just colors but are symbolic of the warmth and complexity of Black identity. Eke’s use of smooth lines and rounded features—full lips and gently curved noses—creates a soothing visual rhythm, inviting viewers to appreciate the subtle nuances of her subjects.
A defining element of Eke’s style is her signature white line, which elegantly traverses from the eyes of her subjects to their mouths. This distinctive feature is more than an artistic flourish; it serves as a profound symbol of spiritual guidance and introspection. For Eke, these lines are a visual reminder to look beyond the earthly realm towards a higher source of light and truth. They represent a divine perspective that both reflects and elevates the viewer’s own sense of self-worth and spiritual insight.
Eke’s portraits, while visually understated, convey powerful messages of confidence, vulnerability, and visibility. Her subjects’ gazes—bold yet serene—speak of an unwavering desire to be seen and acknowledged. Through these images, Eke offers a space where viewers can engage in a deep and personal dialogue about their own identity and the broader human experience.
The artist’s journey began in elementary school when she first realized her passion for art. Eke’s evolution as an artist has been shaped not only by her technical skills but also by her philosophical approach to creativity. A crucial lesson she has learned is the importance of guarding one’s joy. “Comparison steals joy,” Eke reflects, “Comparing my artwork (and myself) with others robbed me of unique creativity in my own work and contentment in life.” This insight has guided her to focus on personal growth and seek divine guidance in her creative process.
“I find that black women are almost always overlooked, and are not represented enough in the creative world. With my art I want to increase the representation of black women in art and eventually in creative industries. This is important to me because I never was able to look up to a black women creatively because I never knew any. They weren’t as “mainstream” as successful white male creatives for example. “
Eke’s work is a testament to the power of art as a medium for reflection and representation. Through her portraits, she not only celebrates the beauty and complexity of Black womanhood but also offers a spiritual mirror reflecting the divine essence within each of us. Her art invites viewers to see themselves and each other through a lens of grace and reverence, making space for both individual and collective introspection.
In every brushstroke and design, Alexis Eke continues to weave a narrative that challenges, inspires, and uplifts. Her art serves as both a personal exploration and a universal call to recognize and embrace the divine beauty in our everyday lives.
