Alison Garwood-Jones is an award-winning writer, illustrator, and former editor at Elle Canada. Her blog, “Society Pages,” explores how technology is challenging and shaping human nature and creativity. It isn’t always pretty.
“I really believe in the power of whimsical illustrations to start honest conversations around tough topics,” she says. “Combining my drawings and words feels the most impactful way to reach people.”
Society Pages is a three-time nominee in the Canadian Weblog Awards. Alison was also recently cited as a “favourite blogger” by Brazen, the Washington, D.C.-based work-related website for “next-generation professionals” profiled by 60 Minutes.
In 2017, Alison launched Willful (now on hiatus), a web series she hosts and co-created with photographer and videographer Yann Yap. The series tracks how artists and creative entrepreneurs work, thrive and survive. Check it out for stories about inspiration and process, tips on how to make career pivots or transfer your skills as jobs change. There is also advice on the economics of being (and staying) creative. Feedback from other freelancers has fueled them on, as did the unexpected thumbs up they got from TVO Docs and Broadway producer/ Grammy-Award winner Michael J. Moritz Jr. (Neither are known to them).
Alison with her godson, Rupert.
To keep her on her toes, Alison is also an instructor at the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies. She currently teaches two courses: Foundations of Digital Communications Strategy and Social Media and Writing Digital Content. In 2021 Alison received an Excellence in Teaching Award in Business & Professional Studies from the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies.
Alison spends most of her time in the park next to her house, as well as on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Disclaimer: unless otherwise stated, Alison owns the copyright on all the images posted to this site. If you would like to use any of them, please reach out through her Contact Page.