Taylor Naoko is a Tokyo-based freelance graphic designer and illustrator, and art director. She often spends quieter mornings going to a cafe or brewing a cup of coffee at home—a routine that nourishes project-work.

Reflecting on her hybridic identity, Taylor recognizes that the connection to her Okinawan background deepens as she gets older—revealing layer after layer the influence her grandparents have had throughout her life.

Since 2023, she has focused on the traditional art of making paper lanterns, also known as chōchin (提灯). This practice serves as a transnational bridge connecting her Canadian background to her Japanese heritage.

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Current Work:

Freelance Illustrator & Graphic Designer
– Taylor Naoko

Past Work:

Art Director & Graphic Designer
– Blue Bottle Coffee US

Graphic Designer (Print, Publication Design, Branding, Packaging, Art Direction, Web & Mobile Design)
– Studio Faculty

Project Manager, Photographer, and Digital Creative (Creative Team)
– Eight Ounce Coffee Supply



For all inquiries, you can reach me on Instagram to start the conversation.