About

 

Julie McNamara

Designer & Illustrator

Hi, I’m Julie—a 28-year-old designer, illustrator, and creative from Philadelphia, PA.

I received my BFA in Graphic and Interactive Design from Tyler School of Art at Temple University, but my love for design began long before that. From crayons to computers, I’ve always been drawn to color, creativity, and storytelling—especially through books.

By day, I design books full time, crafting engaging layouts and covers that invite readers in. By night and weekends, I decorate cakes and dive into whatever creative side quest comes next. Whether it’s a stylized type treatment or a quirky character illustration, I love bringing fun and feeling into every project!

My work blends storytelling, color, and character to create immersive designs that feel both nostalgic and fresh. As a book designer and illustrator, I’m drawn to the intersection of words and visuals—how the right typography or layout can enhance emotion, pacing, and meaning. I often explore themes of fantasy, duality, and identity, with a touch of dark humor or whimsy. I aim to create pieces that spark curiosity and emotion.

Working primarily in digital media, I play with texture, palette, and layered imagery to create designs that are playful but intentional. I believe good design can tell a story on its own. At the heart of everything I create is a love for books, imagination, and the feeling of getting lost in a visual world.

To read more about my professional experience and skills, check out my resume and if you’re interested in working together, I’d love to hear from you! Reach out at juliemcnamaradesign@gmail.com