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Calgary artist Mary-Leigh Doyle has turned a lifelong dream into reality with I Asked for a Unicorn but Life Gave Me a Zebra—a whimsical “children’s book for adults” that pairs her playful illustrations with a message of resilience and positivity.
To bring the text to life, Doyle enlisted the talents of calligrapher Annette Wichmann, a valued member of our guild and owner of Kensington Art Supply. Annette lettered the entire text by hand, giving the book a uniquely personal and heartfelt touch.
“I saw the images and then I read the story, and I was hooked,” Wichmann said. “It’s like, ‘I love this, I love the paintings, I love the story.’”
“It’s one thing as a calligrapher, I knew I was going to be writing the words over and over and over again, and it was such a treat – it wasn’t a chore – this was fun and I loved doing it."
The book’s first two editions quickly sold out, and another print run is now in the works. In celebration, Doyle and Wichmann’s collaborative work is on display at Framed on Fifth until June 28, 2025, with an artist demo scheduled for July 14.
Congratulations, Annette, on bringing your beautiful lettering to such a meaningful project!
