Illustration is an Applied Art: Class Discussion

Last week we spoke about how Illustration is an applied art. An Illustration serves a purpose and its purpose and relationship with an audience is defined by how it is applied. Where Illustration can appear is now shifting and growing within industry and they can be found anywhere from magazines, to wrapping paper, to clothing.

Illustrators therefore need to be sensitive to what image suits what product i.e. They wouldn't place a really complex design on a rug because this might clash with its function. We also spoke about how Illustration can alter the function of a product, giving it meaning or storytelling. If we take the example of a phone case its function is to protect. However, once you place an Illustration on it, it becomes something more. Something which decorates a phone or tells a story.

I found these ideas really interesting and I have never really thought about Illustration in this light before. I have always thought about Illustration for the sake of Illustration. However, now that I come to think about it all of the briefs that we have been given so far have been directed toward a certain product i.e. a poster, a magazine and a book.