Illustration that Works: Professional Techniques for Artistic and Commercial Success

An illustrator is an artist who uses images to communicate an idea or concept to a larger audience. Unlike a fine artist, an illustrator creates images, usually for a client, that serve a specific purpose. Where a fine artist may create work that is intended to be vague or completely open to interpretation, an illustrator has to be concerned with conveying a specific message. Successful illustrators need much more than just art talent-they need to be able to adapt their work to the specific requirements of the client; work on deadline; and, often, be proficient in a number of different styles and different mediums. A thick skin and sense of humor wouldn't hurt, either. Understanding Illustration walks readers through everything they need to know to succeed in this exciting career. Includes hands-on exercises and assigments in addition to real-life examples of final, successful, pieces and the outtakes that didn't work for whatever reasons. Student examples, both successful and less successful (and why) are also included.