How do Illustrators amplify the ‘meaning’ within a message?

Being an illustrator allows you to convey your message through medium, text and different types of media. A simple image can convey a hidden meaning. For example you can find out about technology used at the time, culture influences and what was happening in the world at that time. 

Looking at two types of media of the same subject can make my point clearer. For example Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was originally written in 1964, and since then has been adapted many times. It has been made into two films with and illustrated countless times. But the most famous Illustrations are by Quentin Blake. These illustrations were made in the 70’s and show a freeness and self-expression. The images are very loosely drawn and the characters are very animated and quirky. This gives it a more playful feel, so it appeals to its target audience of children more. He has painted the images using watercolours to give it a more handmade finish. This shows the use of media at that time.

In contrast the most recent Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film has a completely different look and feel to it. It is more vibrant, colourful and overtop; a typical Tim Burton style film. Also his signature dark gothic style is also their; with some of the characters and set. The film also shows the use of technology, with the use of props and CGI. But this film also caters to its target audience of children with the settings and staging, Children will wish they were at the Chocolate Factory.

Both versions are great examples of how illustrators can interpret their own meaning within in a message. 

What are the platforms that Illustrations are used to affect the communication?

Being an illustrator you no longer have to restrict yourself to pieces of paper in order to communicate. Your illustrations can be applied to a variety of mediums reaching more people and communicating the message more effectively and efficiently.

I have been looking at graphic designer/artist Keith Haring who died in 1990, and how his work is still living on in different forms. His signature bold lines and active figures have been applied to everything from trainers to art installations. All the time his art is still communicating to people, and delivering his message of ‘unity’ and ‘active life’. 

This shows how an illustrator can be adaptive and promote their self’s through other forms. Whilst he was still alive his pattern was applied to many things and used in different contexts. In 1989 it was used for the paintwork of a BMW. This was one of the most famous examples of his art taking on a different platform. This was a good way for him to promote himself, and get his art out into the wider audience.

 Most recently his art [background, costume] were used in the music video ‘Rude Boy’ for Rihanna. It created a stunning, simple visual experience and exposed and communicated his art to a whole new younger audience. Rihanna has also been pictured wearing a Jacket with Keith Haring's signature print.

Keith Haring’s art is still living on many years after his death; this is due to his self-promotion and his art taking on different platforms but most of all coming up with a timeless piece of art.