Illustrating a new path

Splendid strokes

Whether it is letting the pencil-lead glide on the paper, or a stylus on a tablet, illustrations are everywhere and illustrators are on the rise. The City has seen a rise of illustrators and the sheer variety is an eye-opener. From classical, fantasy, punk, sci-fi to abstract styles — these artists are known for working with funky prints, bright colours and even vintage designs.

Illustration is mainly a graphical representation of a subject and what sets it apart is its ability to capture the mood, scene and the feel of the place, rather than the image being a stand-alone art-work. Whether the work consists of social commentaries or a simple message  — illustrators have always been an integral part in the economy of Arts. However, the City has seen a rise of illustrators today, mainly because of the start-up boom, the mushrooming growth of design schools, effectiveness of social media and an increase in the number of gaming lounges.

Sahil, an illustrator, says, “Start-up companies and established corporates require illustrators and graphic artists  to design websites and make logos. There are also a number of freelance illustrators, mainly comprise college students, and who work on commissioned projects for two or three months. So start-up companies have provided a nourishing ground for aspiring and established illustrators.”

As inspiration is everywhere and companies are innovating on their ideas, young and new-age illustrators with their quirky ideas are required to work on invitations, posters, magnets, funky fashion apparel and wedding cards to make them look modern with stylistic fonts and funky designs. An increase in game lounges has acted as a breeding ground for the rise of illustrators. Luvnit, the owner of ‘Blindcloud’, a company that focuses on illustrations on street-wear says, “In terms of games, user interface illustrators are required to be on the team to design and develop applications, logos, icons and various characters.” 

Ian, the owner of ‘Illustration Much’, a company that caters to illustrations for corporates, branding, designing logos and wedding projects, finds the employment of illustrators as a growing requirement. “Illustration is not language dependent. It gives a story through pictorial representations. So developers who create applications and websites are increasing and college students are taking it up as a hobby as well.” Luvnit adds that a number of design schools in and around the City has helped churn out professional illustrators and designers.

“Many illustrators go abroad and study graphic design or communication design that helps them develop their skill. Therefore, there is growing competition in the field today.” The rise of social media has also helped a number of illustrators grow as they learn through online tutorials, familiarise themselves with the traits, obtain the right software and work on a multitude of projects through freelance. Luvnit adds that many people with different backgrounds start illustrating after learning the basics online. 

Smitha, an artist, is hopeful about the future. “There is always a need for book illustrators, medical illustrators, cartoon illustrators, and graphic designers. Companies today have become illustration-centric, where a full-time illustrators are required.” Ian too feels that the future looks robust because the start-ups are only going to grow further.  

The key for survival in this market would be for illustrators to go digital and update themselves with the latest software, to keep up with the current times. Sahil says, “One has to go to a school and study, otherwise, the quality would go for a big hit. Once they avail hands-on experience on the field, only then they will be able to familiarise themselves with design tips, work methods and styles on field.” Smitha adds, “Few clients look for quality illustrations. Many of them want illustrations but at low cost which creates a sense of false competition. So artists have to be on their toes on the kind of outlets they can showcase their work at.”