Carrie Cantwell: Whimsical Illustration and Surface Pattern Design

Carrie Cantwell is an Atlanta, Georgia-based illustrator, surface pattern designer, and art educator dedicated to spreading joy through whimsical and vibrant artwork. With a professional background spanning sixteen years as a graphic designer in the film and television industry, she transitioned her career to focus on pattern design. Her artistic style is deeply influenced by her childhood spent in Saudi Arabia and her subsequent move to the United States, which sparked a fascination with mid-century American commercial art, retro graphics, and bold typography. Carrie Cantwell produces designs characterized by stylized shapes, unconventional color combinations, and playful themes. Her extensive portfolio includes hundreds of patterns and illustrations available for licensing, which have been featured on a wide range of products including home decor, fabrics, apparel, and needlepoint kits. She has successfully collaborated with major global brands such as Target, Pottery Barn, and World Market. Beyond her creative practice, Carrie Cantwell is a prominent art educator and mentor. She shares her expertise through a series of popular classes on Skillshare, where she teaches students techniques for creating repeat patterns, discovering signature styles, and achieving success on print-on-demand platforms like Spoonflower. She also leads the Graphics Gang artist community and co-hosts the podcast Two Cranky Creatives. Her mission remains focused on creating the art she wants to see in the world—work that makes people smile and brings more joy to everyday surroundings.