Mercatto: Whimsical Italian Lifestyle Illustrations

Branding and advertising illustrations created for Mercatto restaurant

Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and inviting atmosphere. When it comes to capturing the essence of this culinary experience, Mercatto restaurant in downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada turned to designer Anson Liaw to create a series of whimsical illustrations that embody the Italian lifestyle. With a focus on simplicity and elegance, Liaw's line art illustrations bring a touch of magic to the dining experience at Mercatto.

Liaw drew inspiration from various sources to develop the concept for these illustrations. From the line art work of artists like Paul Klee and Jean-Michel Basquiat to the fashion and Vespa motor scooter culture of the 1960s, every element was carefully chosen to create a cohesive and captivating visual narrative. The result is a collection of illustrations that transport customers to the heart of Italy, where they can indulge in delicious food and embrace the Italian way of life.

The illustrations feature an Italian male as the storytelling tour guide and host, engaging customers in a variety of activities that showcase the perfect European Italian lifestyle. From cooking in the kitchen to shopping for fresh ingredients and delivering mouthwatering dishes, the illustrations capture the joy and passion that goes into every aspect of Italian cuisine. This lifestyle is not only desirable for business men and women, but it also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for all customers.

Using pencil and black ink colored drawing pens on bright white smooth surfaced Strathmore brand mix-media drawing paper, Liaw meticulously crafted each illustration. The series consists of individual pieces, each measuring 11 inches wide by 14 inches high, allowing for a detailed and immersive visual experience.

Throughout the creative process, Liaw faced the challenge of integrating multiple sources of inspiration while maintaining a cohesive and simplified design. By carefully filtering out unnecessary details and focusing on the essential elements, Liaw successfully created illustrations that capture the whimsical elegance of the Italian lifestyle.

These branding and advertising illustrations have not only enhanced the visual identity of Mercatto, but they have also garnered recognition within the design community. In 2021, the series was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category. This prestigious accolade recognizes the well-designed, practical, and innovative nature of the illustrations, as well as their ability to evoke positive emotions and contribute to a better world.

With Anson Liaw's whimsical illustrations, Mercatto brings the spirit of Italy to life, inviting customers to immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of the Italian lifestyle. From the moment they step through the doors, guests are transported to a place where food, culture, and art intertwine, creating an unforgettable dining experience.