Greetings, I'm the creative mind behind  SLay Illustrations, known simply as SLay. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Sault Ste. Marie, my journey led me to the bustling city of Mississauga, Ontario, where I honed my craft amidst a vibrant career in the newspaper industry.

For two decades, I navigated the dynamic world of marketing and coordination, crafting advertisements, orchestrating systems, and sending papers to press. Yet, despite the challenges, I yearned for a deeper creative outlet.

I’ve always been involved in art, however, inspiration struck when I embarked on a quest to create personalized Christmas gifts, birthing the iconic Mirror Image comic strip in 2014. With a nod to the whimsy of Larson, this single-panel gem brimmed with wit and quirky insights, captivating readers across various publications like The Brampton Guardian, The East York Chronicle, and more.

But my artistic journey didn't end there. From humorous science illustrations for Secondcell Bio to political cartoons via TOTimes addressing pressing issues, I've embraced every opportunity to lend my voice to meaningful causes.

As a self-proclaimed introvert's introvert, I find solace in solitude, often dreaming up new ideas and envisioning distant horizons. It was during a serene summer on Lake Superior, surrounded by the crackle of campfire and the whispers of nature, that I birthed a new digital illustration style. Drawing inspiration from the ethereal beauty of the local landscape my art dances with trippy, psychedelic lines, capturing the essence of the lake's mystique and supernatural allure.

My aspirations know no bounds. With every stroke of the pencil and digital brush, I aim to push the boundaries of imagination, drawing inspiration from the diverse landscapes of Canada and beyond.

Through my art, I capture the healing, transformative, and transcendent power of beauty, inspired by campfires, the cottage, and profound personal changes. Each vibrant piece tells a story, offering peace, reflection, and inspiration to enrich your life as they have mine. Remain in wonder.

So here's to the future, where creativity knows no limits, and dreams are boundless. Signed with passion and purpose,

Stephen Lay (SLay)

Illustrator/cartoonist

SLay Illustrations