Field Notes from my Studio Safari
During the course of my research for Portraits of Excellence, I’ve noticed a trend in how public or historical figures are illustrated.
The current flavor opts for more simplified, symbolic figures. Sort of like a minimalist “paper doll.” This approach, loosely related to the now-famous Corporate Memphis style, emphasizes flat, clean shapes, and universality.
Minimal to the Max
The style is simple to replicate and perhaps provides an opportunity for enhanced relatability: by removing any individuality, the image invites anyone to imagine themselves in the picture.
- Simplified features, flat colors, geometric shapes.
- Emphasis on relatability over specificity.
- Popular in children’s publishing, infographics, and educational content.
Below are a few recent examples found in children’s publishing.
Not Just a Pretty Face
Personally, I was always been fascinated by the works of artists like Al Hirschfeld, Bruce Stark, and Lenn Redman, who really mastered caricature and likeness.
- Exaggerated or stylized details emphasize essence and uniqueness.
- Personality is also captured through shape, line, and form.
- Sometimes satirical, sometimes reverent, but always rooted in individuality. That illustration can only be ONE person.
Below are a few of the artists I absorbed growing up.
Face-off
These two approaches couldn’t be more different:
- Universality: connects through simplicity and symbolic accessibility.
- Likeness: connects through individuality and recognition of the person.
One invites accessibility and projection, the other immortalizes uniqueness.
My Approach
With Portraits of Excellence, I’m leaning into true likeness. It’s playful, yet intentional. It’s the kind of art I wanted to see as a kid: my musical heroes captured in portraits that are fun and affirming. My goal is to celebrate each person as unique, special and can’t be mistaken for anyone else!
That’s my take, but I’d love to get your opinion! Take the poll below!
