Editorial illustration is artwork created in response to written text, usually an article in a magazine, newspaper, or blog. In this course, we will focus on how to analyze a text, develop a unique idea, and communicate that concept visually as a partner to the article. Editorial illustration is an exciting field because it allows the illustrator to inject their own opinions and unique voice into the work. We'll focus on how to inject your own personality into your expressive illustration while still communicating your concept and illuminating the written word.
Transform Words into Illustrations
- History + Inspiration: Learn about the history of editorial illustration and current trailblazers
- Researching + Thinking: Learn about artistic style and visual references
- Sketching: Learn how to overcome blank-page-phobia and start sketching
- Drawing: Learn techniques for strengthening and finishing your drawing
- Line, Value, and Color: Learn about color theory and linework tips
- Digital Process: Learn about coloring an illustration in Photoshop
- Textures + Hand-Drawn Type: Learn to create your own textures and drawn type
Course Concepts and Overview
To show you all this, I'm going to take you through my step by step process of creating an editorial illustration. You'll see my process from the original text article to researching, sketching, drawing, revisions, digital production, all the way to final illustration. I'll also show you many of my own personal Photoshop techniques for creating illustrations with bold colors and tantalizing textures. In addition, I will walk you through some illustration fundamentals that are often misunderstood including line, tone, value, and color, to help make your drawing as strong as possible.
By the end of this course, you will have the skills to transform a boring text-only article into a professional editorial illustration that communicates your unique voice while illuminating the written word.
