What is Illustration? Why Use Illustration?

Illustration is communicative resource that enables interpretation of the world around us. It fuels our ability to express individuality through the use of image and style. One of the most important things about the discipline is that it removes all language barriers, it is universal in this sense. Using simple techniques, such as the image of a cigarette crossed out by a red line will imply to anyone that smoking is prohibited in that given area. 

Illustration is also used in more playful ways such as accompanying writing in books or magazines where it’s role is to further project an idea, illuminating prose that previously may not have caught as much interest. Illustration is often used to explore a narrative. Through it’s use, it has the power to engage people and aid the process of understanding. This is something that’s especially useful when addressing more serious issues. Tactics such as being facetious can be used to put a light hearted spin on a topic that is generally ill thought, which therefor can help to spur more conversation on such topics.