Glossary

Background

Backgrounds help to place a character and tell a story. They contribute to setting the mood of an image. A background can be one of the main characters. It can be very detailed, blurred or minimalist.

Associated words: environment, composition, characters, layers, frame

Character

Everything in an illustration can be a character: people or animals, objects, buildings, etc.

It is important to define that character, what they want, how they contribute to the story, and what is their story before deciding what to draw and include.

Associated words: design, accessory, outfit, stylisation, posture, expression, characteristic

Colours

A balanced colour palette brings harmony to an image. It also contributes to convey a feeling. It can be a sense of threat, optimism or comfort. It helps to bring some focus on parts of the illustration.

Associated words: muted, vibrant, vivid, bright, light, dark, tones, hues, tints, jewel tones

Composition

A good composition contributes to bring harmony, clarity and life to an illustration. It guides the eyes of the viewer.

Associated words: journey, balance, dynamic, rule of third, golden ratio, colours, contrast, recurrent elements, shapes, scale, frame

Contrast

An image with good contrast is easier to read. It reinforces a good composition. Contrast can be achieved through colours, tones, scales and shapes

Associated words: focus, standing out, foreground, background, variation

Editorial illustration

An editorial illustration is an illustration published in a magazine, brochure or newspaper to accompany an article or illustrate a cover.

Editorial illustrations often use metaphors to convey a message.

Associated words: news, message, metaphor, story

Line and wash

Use of ink and watercolour.

There are many techniques and variations of line and wash. I like the unexpected outcomes of sketches created in that way and the energy coming out of the image.

Associated words: watercolour, fine liner, brush pen, lines

Lines

The quality of a line is essential to a good drawing. Regular sketching helps to develop confident lines.

Associated words: straight, curve, assertive, hurried, fine, thick

Portfolio

A portfolio is a selection of images that showcases the work of an illustrator. Consistency is important to illustrate the author’s interests and skills

Associated words: consistency, selection

Sketching

Sketching regularly helps to build confidence and develop a sense of observation. Sketches are a valuable resource of inspiration for future illustrations.

I enjoy looking at sketches of urban sketchers such as Suhita Shirodkar. These sketches are very dynamic.

Associated words: watercolour, pen & ink, pencil, life drawing, urban sketching, fast