Each month, CBC Arts showcases a fresh interpretation of its logo, crafted by a Canadian artist. Explore our archive of past designs!
This October, many will seek Halloween excitement through horror movie marathons and visits to spooky attractions.
Yet for a deeper, more existential fright—one that resonates within your very cells—look to Liza Desya, our featured logo artist for the month.
Desya, a Toronto animator, drew on profoundly eerie concepts for her 3D logo. She breaks it all down below. Keep reading.
Video still of a woman with blonde hair wearing VR goggles and holding VR equipment. The photographic image is layered with digital illustrations suggesting a 2D line drawing of the CBC gem logo.
VR sculpting is one of Liza Desya’s specialties. (Liza Desya)
Name: Liza Desya
Age: 26
Homebase: Toronto
What sources do you often turn to for ideas and inspiration?
I’m famous for my brain fixation. I constantly consult my massive Pinterest collection of MRI scans, scientific drawings, and Petri dish photos, translating those intricate neural webs into my own aesthetic. My best ideas often emerge while reading non-fiction on psychology and meditation.
3D digital illustration of a figure seen in silhouette against a black background. The figure is transparent and luminous, reminiscent of an MRI scan. The figure is filled with forms suggesting bodily systems but also orange monarch butterflies. A single butterfly floats in front of its open mouth.
TAIS Animation Showcase illustration by Liza Desya. (Liza Desya)
Let’s talk about your logo! What are we looking at?
Meet Mitochondrina, the energy generator of the “Canadian Broadcasting Cell.” She’s my lab-created CBC Frankenstein microbe.
What inspired the concept?
Halloween was the prompt, and what’s more terrifying than the realization that our awareness is just a clump of microbes and isotopes? For a look at my technical workflow, visit my site.
Commotion
Horror movie recommendations to help you get your scare on this Halloween
What’s the project you’re most proud of?
In 2025, I launched my own magazine, Hijinx World. It’s an experimental venture exploring creativity’s essence and pushing contributing artists to reflect deeply on their methods.
Photo composite of print magazines and people reading print magazines outside in an urban space.
Liza launched her magazine, Hijinx World, in March 2025. (Liza Desya)
What’s new in your world? What are you working on these days?
Beyond client work, I’m mastering new software and getting mentorship to expand my practice into other areas. Ultimately, I aim to serve as a creative director on major productions.
What’s your favourite place to see art? (Is there a local spot more people should know about?)
True art appreciation begins with learning to truly see. As you become more present with yourself and your surroundings, you’ll notice the universe constantly expresses itself creatively. I also suggest a Sunday morning coffee walk through Toronto’s Little Portugal—its murals are stunning and publicly accessible.
Who’s the last artist you discovered online?
Vasya Kolotusha! I stumbled on their work months back, lost the name, and spent ages trying to find them again. They recently reappeared in my feed, and I was thrilled to reconnect.
How to haunt a gothic mansion
What work of art do you wish you owned?
My ultimate desire is for truly bizarre, stylish clothing. The most exquisite, weirdly fashionable pieces are wildly overpriced, so I may need to learn to craft them myself.
Are there any arts events on your radar this October? What are you excited to check out?
October marks my boyfriend’s birthday, and I’m eager to bake him a pie. It’s going to be fantastic!