Paul Dotey, who recently joined The Philanthropist as an illustrator, has worked in publishing design for more than a decade, creating maps, books and illustrations for clients in Canada and around the globe. Dotey’s clients include Starbucks Coffee, The Globe and Mail, and the Drake General Store. Working from his studio in downtown Toronto, he’s currently drawing whatever he’s been asked.
Tell us a bit about yourself: I’m an illustrator who has been working in the publishing industry for about 15 years. I’ve always drawn since I was young, so becoming an illustrator was a natural profession for me, but I’ve had to learn how to become my own boss, which hasn’t always come naturally.
Describe your desk/workspace: My desk is actually two desks: a computer table with a tablet and scanner, and a drafting table with my pencils and pens in vintage jars. I like a little messy chaos; keeping things at hand is important.
What are you reading or following that has expanded your understanding of the non-profit sector? In the past few years I’ve been reading more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. So much of the work that young people have been doing in their communities has been about looking at the future as well as the past. Helping youth work with their elders has been really inspiring.
What do you think our sector needs to be thinking about? I think that the non-profit sector can benefit from looking at mentorship across the generations. A lot of people tend to silo themselves in working with their own cohort; it can be a real benefit to know how older and younger people face the same challenge.
