After months of creative struggle and personal loss, including the passing of my dog—the inspiration behind my Animal Behaviour series—I found a way back through international art competitions. What began as a search for motivation became a turning point, leading to some of the best work I’ve ever created and a renewed passion for illustration. In this talk at Larissa ComicCon, I shared how setbacks can spark inspiration, and how preparation, persistence, and emotion all shape the creative journey.

From Doodles to Data: How Generative AI is Personalising Illustration In 2025, the creative world is witnessing a dramatic shift as human artistry and machine intelligence intersect in powerful ways. Nowhere is this transformation more evident than in the rise of generative AI in illustration. These advanced tools can analyse, mimic, and co-create visual work, using everything from detailed sketches to rough…

Creating Texture in Digital Art: Techniques for Adding Depth and Detail Texture Techniques in Digital Art: Adding Depth and Realism Texture plays a crucial role in digital art, transforming flat illustrations into dynamic and immersive visuals. Whether aiming for the soft feel of fur, the rough grain of wood, or the intricate weave of fabric, mastering surface detail techniques enhances both depth and realism.

Creating a Marketable Style Without Losing Artistic Identity For illustrators navigating the creative industry, one of the most enduring challenges is finding a style that is both authentic and commercially viable. While a distinctive artistic voice is essential for self-expression and recognition, aligning that voice with market expectations can sometimes feel like a compromise. The key lies in cultivating a style that resonates with your personal sensibilities while remaining adaptable enough to meet professional demands.

Building a Niche Audience as an Illustrator on Patreon For illustrators seeking independence and community support, Patreon offers a platform where creativity meets sustainability. By connecting directly with an audience willing to pay for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and engagement, artists can build a steady income stream outside the traditional client-commission model. But success on Patreon doesn’t come from appealing to everyone—it comes from cultivating a niche audience that values your unique artistic voice.

Building a Cohesive Illustration Portfolio That Stands Out A well-crafted illustration portfolio is essential for artists looking to establish their identity, attract clients, and secure professional opportunities. A strong portfolio not only showcases technical skills but also reflects an artist’s unique style, vision, and personality. In today’s competitive creative industry, having a cohesive portfolio that stands out is more crucial than ever.

Eyvind Earle and the Elegance of Stylised Fantasy Eyvind Earle was an illustrator and painter who transformed the visual language of animation through his stylised, atmospheric landscapes and distinctive design sensibility. Best known for his work on Disney's "Sleeping Beauty" (1959), Earle brought a fine artist's eye and a modernist's restraint to the medium, crafting environments that were both richly textured and meticulously ordered.

A book cover serves as a gateway to the story within, offering potential readers a glimpse of the journey that awaits them. In an era where visual appeal plays a crucial role in marketing, an illustrated book cover must capture attention, evoke emotion, and communicate the essence of the book in a single glance.

Illustration Trends for 2025: What’s In and What’s Out As we step into 2025, the world of illustration continues to evolve, influenced by technological advancements, cultural shifts, and artistic experimentation. Whether you’re an illustrator looking to stay ahead of the curve or simply an art enthusiast, here’s a deep dive into what’s trending and what’s fading in the illustration landscape.

The Rise of Minimalist Illustration in 2025 In 2025, the design and creative industries are witnessing a significant resurgence of minimalist illustration. This trend, defined by its simplicity, clarity, and focus on essential elements, has steadily gained traction as creators and brands alike seek to stand out in an increasingly crowded digital landscape. Minimalist illustration, often characterized by clean lines, limited color palettes, and negative space, is proving to be not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional in meeting modern design needs.

YouTube video by Rob Snow

Cottagecore and Folk Art: The Rise of Nostalgic and Pastoral Illustration The world of illustration is constantly evolving, shaped by cultural shifts, aesthetic preferences, and the need for deeper emotional connections. One of the most prominent trends to emerge in recent years is the rise of nostalgic and pastoral illustration, heavily influenced by the cottagecore movement and folk art traditions. This visual aesthetic, rooted in romanticized rural life and traditional craftsmanship, speaks to a longing for simplicity, nature, and a return to handmade artistry in an increasingly digital world.

Lisbeth Zwerger: A Modern Pioneer in Children’s Book Illustration Lisbeth Zwerger is a name that shines brightly in the world of children’s literature, celebrated for her ethereal, poetic illustrations that have brought countless classic tales to life. As a modern pioneer in children’s book illustration, Zwerger has redefined the boundaries of the genre, blending tradition with innovation to create visuals that resonate with both young readers and adults.

A Beginner’s Guide to Digital Illustration: Essential Tools and Techniques Digital illustration has revolutionized the art world, making it more accessible than ever for aspiring artists to create stunning visuals using technology. Whether you’re transitioning from traditional mediums or starting fresh in digital art, understanding the essential tools and techniques is key to developing your skills. With the right approach, you can bring your ideas to life and build a solid foundation in digital illustration.

YouTube video by Rob Snow

YouTube video by Rob Snow

YouTube video by Rob Snow

YouTube video by Rob Snow