Illustration Research Methods

Book excerpt: For years illustration has lacked a strong critical history in which to frame it, with academics and media alike assessing it as part of design rather than a discipline in its own right. Illustration Research Methods addresses this void and adds to a fast-emerging discipline, establishing a lexicon that is specific to discussing contemporary illustration practice and research. The chapters are broken down into the various roles that exist within the industry and which illustration research can draw from, such as 'Reporting' and 'Education'. In doing so, users are able to explore a diverse range of disciplines that are rich in critical theory and can map these existing research methodologies to their own study and practice. Supported by a wealth of case studies from international educators, student projects sit alongside those of world-renowned illustrators. Thus allowing users the opportunity to put what they have learnt into context and offering insight into the thinking and techniques behind some of illustrations' greats.