The Illustration Cupboard

Upon visiting a small art gallery in the east end of London, i discovered that there are a lot of interesting illustrations to be found even amongst popular children's books. Specifically illustrations of childhood classics i recall such as Wallace and Gromit, Tintin and Elmer all with interesting art styles in the books/shows but also when viewed still on paper.

Tintin by Georges Remi uses a bold outline to create a striking cartoon style, images jump from the page and washed out colours are used with give the whole series a vintage feel. This style in particular i find interesting, not only because i read some of the books as a child but also because I've always used dark outlines in my work and Remi uses this technique to its potential in his work.

Nick Park and Wallace and Gromit i also find uses a very influential styling. I find the expressions particularly good and the characters appear very alive, a prospect that i think is important in any illustration trying to give off character.

The style used in Elmer books is one which is rarely seen outside of the genre of children's books, i think it work so very well when it comes to appealing to young children. The colours are bold and exciting without being overbearing, the illustrations simplistic but charming, although i would not illustrate in this style myself i think its an effective option nonetheless.