This MCP server enables bots to send JavaScript-based scripts directly to Adobe Illustrator and retrieve the results. It leverages AppleScript on macOS to control Illustrator, so it is specifically designed for macOS environments and works best when used with AppleScript-capable hosts. The server is intended to run the Illustrator MCP server directory with the uv runtime, and it has been tested in conjunction with Claude Desktop. To use it, place your Illustrator automation scripts in the designated server directory, then invoke the run script command via the uv runtime to execute them inside Illustrator and capture the output.

When interacting with this server, you’ll send scripts that Illustrator can execute (for example, JavaScript for Illustrator) and receive the results back from Illustrator through the MCP workflow. Ensure your scripts handle any Illustrator prompts or permissions, as macOS security settings can require additional access for automation. Since this setup depends on AppleScript, keep the macOS environment consistent and ensure Illustrator is installed and accessible by the automation tooling.

Prerequisites:

• macOS (AppleScript automation required)
• Adobe Illustrator installed and accessible
• A macOS user account with access to run automation scripts
• Python (for the uv runtime) or a compatible runtime environment

Step-by-step installation:

1. Prepare the server directory (example path used in the config): mkdir -p /Users/you/code/mcp/illustrator-mcp-server

   Place your Illustrator automation scripts and any needed AppleScript/JS files here

2. Install the uv runtime (choose one):

   • Using pipx (recommended for isolation): python3 -m pip install --user pipx python3 -m pipx ensurepath pipx install uv
   • Using pip (if you prefer): python3 -m pip install uv

3. Run the MCP server with the configuration provided in the README: uv --directory /Users/you/code/mcp/illustrator-mcp-server run illustrator

4. (Optional) Export environment variables or adjust permissions as needed for macOS automation (e.g., accessibility permissions for the terminal/app running the script).

Notes and tips:

• This server is macOS-specific due to its reliance on AppleScript for Illustrator automation.
• Ensure Illustrator is installed and accessible to the automation runtime; security prompts may require manual approvals.
• The configuration path in the mcp_config example should be updated to reflect your actual server directory.
• If you encounter permission or accessibility issues, run the command from an app with the necessary permissions or grant the terminal/app accessibility rights in System Preferences.
• The setup shown is designed for Claude Desktop compatibility, but the approach should work with other agents that can invoke the uv runtime and manage the server directory.