Mike McQuade‘s Instagram profile captures many of the things that fascinate us: illustration, design, and composite styles. At first glance, his works seem to communicate something dark, unclear to those unfamiliar with him. From his Instagram profile, we find ourselves on the McQuade Inc. website, the studio he founded with his wife. The McQuade Inc. portfolio is diverse, reflecting their ability to produce functional solutions for clients of all sizes, from small start-ups to globally recognized brands.
On one hand, Mike McQuade—famous for his impactful illustrations—focuses on drawing attention to global issues through his work. His creations have appeared in major publications such as The Atlantic, The New Yorker, The Washington Post, and New York magazine, as well as NPR, and more recently, Vanity Fair. Recognized by the American Institute of Graphic Arts and American Illustration, Mike’s work continues to showcase its relevance. Nicole McQuade, on the other hand, has a passion for creating cohesive visual worlds. Whether it’s brand identity, interior spaces, or catalogs, she believes that truly understanding a client is key to solving design challenges. Her research-based approach ensures that every project is intentional and engaging. Her work has been featured in Print‘s regional design annual, multiple volumes of Logo Lounge, and interior design platforms like Apartment Therapy, Design Sponge, and The Every Girl.
Mike and Nicole are two sides of the same coin, and through their studio, they carry out important work that bridges both the creative and design worlds.
