Fundamental Illustration

Fundamental Illustration

Instructor: Greg Houston

12 weeks

Mondays 6-9 (Monday, Sept 21st- Monday, Dec 7th)

Ages 17 to Senior Citizen.

*this is a synchronous, online class

This introductory course approaches illustration from the beginning—focusing on what makes a good illustration, how to construct it, how to make it communicate to a larger audience, and how to work with art directors. We will focus primarily on storytelling-- that is communicating the concept to the viewer-- within the context of the assignment which is the goal of every illustration. Students will hone their skills by creating narrative, conceptual, stand-alone, and sequential work in both black & white and in color. Assignments will run the gamut from purely conceptual pieces designed to get the artist thinking about how to communicate visually to more realistic assignments designed to mirror real-world jobs.

We will consider the development of various styles and techniques and students are encouraged to bring in drawing/painting materials that they would like to become more familiar and/or proficient in using. There will be in-class assignments as well as homework to provide plenty of opportunities to try out various mediums and techniques. There will also be class critiques, which will allow students to learn to speak about their work in a professional manner—all in a fun, freewheeling environment.

Materials:

Students are free to work in any medium they choose, traditional and/or digital. I ask that they be prepared to work in both black and white as the assignment requires. While they aren't obligated to do so, I'd suggest students be open to working in a variety of mediums so that they might stretch in terms of both technical skill set and conceptual options.

Greg Houston is the author of "Illustration That Works: Professional Techniques for Artistic & Commercial Success", The Monacelli Press, March 2016, and “Understanding Caricature”, The Monacelli Press, May, 2021. He’s also written and illustrated two graphic novels, “Vatican Hustle”, NBM Publishing, 2009, and “Elephant Man”, NBM Publishing, 2010.