ILLUSTRATION....
In the dictionary, illustration is akin to a picture. In my line of work, illustration gets to be more than just a product of a few lines and curves. An illustration must convey a message that is easily understood by the viewer. More often that not, an illustration accompanies a series of sentences, to reinforce their meanings.
Here are some examples for the works I’ve done:
The ones I did for the books ‘Big Red Bus’ and ‘Life: This Way’ were made to aid readers in visualizing the text they are reading through illustration. The former also adds to the comprehension of its young readers while illustration works of the latter helps in providing emotional impact to the narrative, which in turn aid in getting its message across. The humor in the article ‘Transports of delight’ is further enhanced and conceptualized with the illustration I made, adding to the appeal of this particular narrative. The illustrations I made for the textbook ‘Telling Time Year 5-6’ from the WHS Primary Practice Series also help to aid in the learning of students while still incorporating fun into the process.
As one of the main functions of illustration is to provide a face to a central character, I have created several characters that will help convey ideas and concept to children of different ages. For children 9-11 years old, here are some unique characters they can relate to. I have also created characters designed to draw interest among teenagers (12-15 years old). I also did several sports illustrations, images that convey not only action but also a bit of humor as well.
I’ve also done illustration works to allow viewers to visualize a set of instructions. Such is the project I made for ‘Nursery World’ magazine, which aids preschool teachers execute activities that will enhance their students’ creativity. I also did an illustration for Powergen, depicting how their employees can save energy in their own households. Without the illustration, there’s a possibility that each employee will have their own visualization, even interpretation, of the guidelines given on how to prevent heat loss in their respective houses. I also did a couple of illustration projects for language learning, one for the Heinemann English Language Teaching and the WILKOMMEN course in German for adults. These projects enhance the understanding and uptake of a language by providing visual examples and concepts for each word or phrase. The illustration I drew for coach tours in the British Isles was made for foreign tourists who wish to know and visit some of the attractions in the area. Though not explicitly stated in the image itself, it carries a subtle instruction to stop by these places through coach tours.
I have had the pleasure and pride to say that I have worked with Hewlett Packard in designing illustrations for its exhibition stand. These images are meant to promote several of its office, home, and industrial equipments. I have also done a humorous piece for an online dating service that visualizes the myriad dating (and romantic) choices open to those who use it.