Here are a few samples from a series of pictograms used in a client’s brand strategy presentation from late last year. Very different from my usual narrative style, they are graphically pretty simple and aimed at instant communication, much like editorial. Similar to designing logos, these kinds of illos’s are often amongst the most challenging as they need to express ideas with a simple directness devoid of unnecessary ornament. Stylistic details, elements, colour are generally the building blocks that illustrators rely on to communicate. Strip those away and it’s like trying to build a house without nails. It can still be done and will have longevity, but it requires searching the depths of visual metaphor.
