It's Toronto's unofficial mascot … and ours too!

Every month, we feature a new take on the CBC Arts logo created by a Canadian artist. Check out our previous logos!

You'll find the critters in cities all over North America, but Toronto might just be the raccoon capital of the world. In the city, they're furry folk heroes — making headlines for hopping the subway or shopping at Loblaws. And yet, there's no denying they're wild, garbage-scarfing creatures at heart, invading our green bins and balconies.

Love or loathe the trash panda, it's become an emblem of the city. And for one local artist, Emily May Rose, the raccoon's even become her signature. 

Rose is this month's logo designer. A prolific artist and illustrator, she's also the owner of Northern Contemporary Gallery, located in Toronto's Roncesvalles neighbourhood. "Most people know me by my raccoon characters, who are notoriously up to no good (just like me)," she writes — but there's lots more to learn about Rose's work. Read on.

Name: Emily May Rose

Age: 29

Homebase: Toronto

When I think of your work, I immediately picture raccoons. Why raccoons? How long have you been painting them, and how did they become your signature?

The raccoons are honestly a joke that has gone too far. I've always painted animals, but about 10 years ago my work started including more urban themes, and it just seemed natural to introduce a raccoon character. 

Most people in the city will tell you that raccoons are messing up their garbage bins, but I'm going several steps further: I'm painting them stealing our bikes, tagging our laneways and throwing parties in abandoned buildings. 

At some point this became the main focus of my artwork. It's beyond my control now. The people want raccoons and I will give them raccoons. Would I keep painting them if it wasn't paying the bills? Honestly, yes. I am having fun.

People are even getting raccoon tattoos based on your artwork! How many raccoon tattoos are out there, do you know? And what can you tell me about the partnership you have with the Blind Tiger Tattoo, the shop you tagged in the Instagram post below?

I haven't kept count. Maybe 30 now? They're all done by Spenny Watts, the only person I will trust with my raccoons. I always wanted to learn to tattoo, but since I haven't (yet), Spenny is the closest you can get. I'll even come in and make your stencil or draw it right on!

Let's talk about your design! What inspired the concept?

It's the summer! We are hanging out and painting outside. For my design I have a Toronto raccoon getting ready to spray a wall (just like me).

Your murals are all over Toronto — and the world, for that matter. What do you love about painting murals?

I love painting my work larger than life. I love the full-body experience of painting a mural. I love getting to travel; murals have taken me to different parts of Canada and America, as well as Europe, Asia and Africa.

What's the project you're most proud of?

I think my largest solo wall, the one for Guru energy drink on Ossington Ave., might be it. Another favourite is definitely my artist residency in South Africa.

Are there any arts events on your radar this summer? What are you excited to check out?

I'm always checking out my favourite Toronto galleries, and I always love seeing what's up at Bevy Space, Cry Baby Gallery and Worth. And we've got some great summer programming coming up at Northern Contemporary.

What's new in your world? What are you working on at the moment?

Currently my main focus is working on my solo show, which is set to open in August at Northern Contemporary. I haven't done a show since 2019! I have lots of painting to do still.

What's your favourite place to see art?

On the street! Murals will always be my favourite.

Who's the last artist you discovered online?

I don't really find artists online. Usually it's in person or through friends' recommendations. The last one was probably Shampoooty.

What work of art do you wish you owned?

I would do anything to own a large original from Steve Powers, one of Wayne White's word paintings, or literally anything hand painted by Margaret Kilgallen. Those three have always been my heroes and really got me excited about being an artist.

Where can we see more from you?
Find me on Instagram (@emilymayrose) for updates on my solo show and other places I'll be painting this summer!