Just come across the work of illustrative designer Jan Willem Wennekes in this months issue of Computer Arts.
I really like this style of illustrations – all vectors, with weird and wonderful characters – however, it’s coming in for criticism from some readers. They say CA is full of this genre, suggesting the style is being heavily overused.
As much as I like the style, I can see their point. Vectors are great, but they do have their obvious limitations. There are some designers/illustrators out there doing really well, producing primarily ‘happy character vector’ based work. Off the top of my head I’m thinking studios like Tado (whos stuff really like). My question is, does this style have longevity, and with so many adopting it – has something been lost?
Is there a ‘next big thing’ around the corner for illustrative design?
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27th Jul 2007
1:14 pm
vectors will vever die!!!!!
Jack
27th Jul 2007
1:23 pm
Haha, until theres some revolutionary jump forward in technology they wont.
I’m not talking specifically about the vector medium. I’m talking more that specific style of whacky, happy, wierd characters.
If you look in an issue of CA, theres regularly a large number of illustrative designers producing a similar(ish) style of illustration.
Glenn
27th Jul 2007
2:55 pm
I agree that characters are losing their originality a little but they are still good fun! What is going to happen to illustrators such as Jon Burgerman, who mainly draw characters, when the trend dies out? There is a lot to be said for having a recognizable style but what do you do when your style isn’t the new thing anymore?
I think the reason characters are great is that you can get away with any old shit and call it a character! Hell, what a bout Pee & Poo? Prime example that you can make characters out of shit and piss!
Jack
27th Jul 2007
11:55 pm
Boom! Boom!
Think vectors will be here longer than we are (or atleast until some new technological wizardry appears) – its just about continually finding original styles (easier said than done!).
Just look at Sanna Annuka’s artwork!