Gary Taxali tonight at the Drake

(Above: A Taxali illustration for a recent cover of Newsweek)

For a generation of Toronto illustrators -- maybe 2, by now -- Gary Taxali is The Franchise: A Toronto illustrator whose work has traveled far and wide, establishing him as a bonafide brand. A long time instructor at OCAD, is career represents the aspirational apex of students and pros alike. Tonight, a reception and book signing at the Drake Hotel, where his simple, iconic figures of cartoonish angst will be splayed on the dining room's walls for the balance of the summer, will be a packed affair.

Then, in September, the AGO launches an artist's monograph on September 22, titled "I Love You, OK?" Did I mention frachise?

Drake event is tonight at 7:30. See you there.