Illustration: A Theoretical Contextual Perspective

It is the first of its kind to fully examine the measure of contextual operation regarding contemporary illustration practice. This book provides an exemplification of theoretical and intellectual processes necessary for the production of accomplished work. It does not emphasise matters of commercial or business practice, nor aspects of media or practical concern such as techniques or technical processes. The book provides a defined understanding and application regarding all modes of project development including research, subject matter, conceptual processing, context and audience, analysis and visual language. It explores the breadth and use for illustration and does not discriminate. It presents a collective of five, distinct contextual domains that constitutes the role of illustration: documentation, reference and instruction; commentary; narrative fiction; persuasion; identity. It also introduces the concept of illustrator as a specialist or authority on a particular subject: illustrator as scientist or cultural historian; illustrator as journalist; illustrator as author of narrative fiction