ABOUT THE ARTIST:

Ilana McBain is an Australian multidisciplinary artist, designer, and author whose work moves fluidly between painting, pop art, fashion, wearable art, and creative writing. Her practice explores human connection, identity, emotion, and social awareness, delivered through a signature mix of bold visuals, sharp humour, and thoughtful philosophy.

Her projects often champion empowerment, individuality, and community, driven by her commitment to helping people feel more confident, expressive, and connected to their own stories.

McBain’s art has been exhibited across Australia and appears in publications, private collections, and corporate spaces. She is also the author of provocative, insight-driven books that blend narrative and philosophy with grounded, practical clarity, written for those ready to understand relationships without the sugar coating and live with more agency and truth.

Deeply passionate about creativity as a catalyst for social change, McBain speaks on art, mental wellbeing, emotional intelligence, and self-expression. She has led workshops, talks, and community initiatives across the Sunshine Coast and beyond, bringing people together through creativity, conversation, and powerful ideas.

THE LATEST:

Hi friends, it’s Ilana!

I’m excited to share my newest book, What Does Freedom Mean to Me?, the first in my Happy Cat Philosophy series.
This isn’t just a book—it’s a reminder of something we all forget far too easily: freedom is the foundation of who we become.

We live in a world that constantly tells us how to think, behave, and fit in. Adults feel it. Kids feel it even more. That’s why this book matters. It gives children, and every grown-up who once was one, permission to grow without the weight of other people’s expectations, to think for themselves, and to move confidently toward a future where they feel safe, strong, and unburdened.

I wrote this book because freedom shapes our choices, our mental health, our relationships, and the way we show up in the world. When we teach children the value of freedom early, we give them the gift of authenticity, resilience, and courage for life.

This is a book for every age, every home, and every heart that wants to live boldly and take up its rightful space in the world.

Book cover with a white cat and text 'What Does Freedom Mean To me?' on a black background

What Does Freedom Mean To Me? PDF Download

Get the PDF instantly with 50% off—limited time only.
And if this book gives you clarity, comfort, or courage, leaving a review means the world. It helps this work travel further, reach deeper, and support the people who need it most.

Freedom is calling… are you ready to answer?

— Ilana 💛

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A gift card by ilana mcbain, classy red card with stylised pink and white font.

Ilana McBain Gift Card – Give the Gift of Creativity

Give the gift of creativity with an Ilana McBain Gift Card. Perfect for art lovers. Buy now and let them choose their perfect piece of art or book!

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PDF books by Ilana McBain. Storytelling, philosophy, and guidance to inspire, empower, and spark curiosity.

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