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INSIGHTS



HOW TO USE YOUR ILLUSTRATION POWERS FOR THE COMMON GOOD


In this article, we reflect on how the ability to illustrate is a remarkable gift that holds the potential to connect, inspire, and uplift others. We offer a dozen ways illustrators can have a positive impact by creating art that speaks to the heart and mind. 

Written by Nate Padavick and Salli S. Swindell

Introduction


As illustrators, we hold something really powerful in our hands—beyond our pens, brushes, and styluses! We know how images can resonate and connect in ways that words sometimes cannot. Our illustrations can work wonders: lifting spirits, inspiring ideas, and shining lights on important issues. This article is more than about creating visually beautiful work; it’s about using our craft to make a difference. Let’s look at 12 ways we can use our skills with intention, kindness, and a bit of generosity.

1. Brighten Someone’s Day


  • Impact: Personal illustrations sent directly to someone can make them feel appreciated and valued.
  • How: Create something heartfelt and specific for someone who could use a little boost.
  • For example: Send a hand-drawn postcard with an encouraging message to a friend who needs a lift, or send them an “illustrated care package” with each piece representing a shared memory or inside joke.

2. Support a Cause


  • Impact: Using your skills to advocate for causes amplifies important messages and engages others in meaningful change.
  • How: Make posters, shareable graphics, or partner with nonprofits to bring visibility to the cause.
  • For example: Create a graphic or poster supporting a cause you care about, like animal welfare, or collaborate on an illustrated campaign for a nonprofit, including social media art and merchandise.

3. Create a Vibe


  • Impact: Atmosphere-rich illustrations can transport viewers, offering comfort or inspiration.
  • How: Use colors, textures, and themes that evoke a specific feeling or escape.
  • For example: Draw a cozy coffee shop scene that feels like a warm hug, or create a series that captures the vibe of each season to bring people back throughout the year.

4. Start a Conversation


  • Impact: Conversation-starting illustrations engage viewers and encourage them to think deeply about new topics.
  • How: Use symbols or metaphors to convey thought-provoking ideas.
  • For example: Illustrate a thought-provoking concept, like nature vs. urban spaces, or create a series on mental health, each piece focusing on a different aspect like anxiety or self-care.

5. Share a Viewpoint


  • Impact: Illustrations that reflect personal viewpoints help others connect with different perspectives.
  • How: Express your values subtly or use storytelling to communicate your thoughts.
  • For example: Draw a single image that communicates your view on climate change, or create a zine with multiple panels presenting your perspective on equality.

6. Process an Emotion


  • Impact: Illustrations that explore emotions help others feel seen and understood.
  • How: Create visuals that capture or communicate a specific feeling, often through color and abstraction.
  • For example: Create an abstract piece that expresses calmness, or show the journey from grief to acceptance in a series depicting each stage.

    7. Respond to a Problem


    • Impact: Illustrating a problem makes it relatable, helping others understand and care about complex issues.
    • How: Use infographics or a series to bring awareness to a social or environmental issue.
    • For example: Make an infographic on plastic pollution, or create a series that follows a plastic bottle’s journey from production to disposal.

    8. Share a Laugh


    • Impact: Humor breaks down barriers and brings people together.
    • How: Use playful characters, puns, or relatable situations to create work that’s fun and lighthearted.
    • For example: Draw a funny comic about a universal experience, like dealing with Zoom, or launch a character-based comic strip with regular updates.

    9. Entertain Yourself


    • Impact: Creating just for fun can be refreshing and inspire others to embrace playfulness in their own lives.
    • How: Experiment with a new style or follow a creative prompt without the pressure of perfection.
    • For example: Try a new style for a quick doodle, or start a daily illustration project where you create something fresh each day for a month.

    10. Shine a Light on an Issue


    • Impact: Art can make difficult topics more approachable, building awareness and empathy.
    • How: Use your skills to visually tell the story of an issue that needs attention.
    • For example: Draw a portrait of an activist and share their story, or create a series on food insecurity with each piece highlighting a different aspect of the challenge.

    11. Promote a Local Business


    • Impact: Shopping locally strengthens communities, and illustrators can draw attention to these businesses.
    • How: Use your skills to illustrate your love for a local business.
    • For example: Create an illustration of the storefront or illustrate a selection of your favorite things offered by a particular business. 

    12. Spark Inspiration


    • Impact: Inspirational illustrations can uplift and motivate others to pursue their dreams or passions.
    • How: Use quotes, hand-lettering, and bold visuals that encourage optimism and courage.
    • For example: Create a hand-lettered motivational quote, or make a series of posters with quotes and vibrant art focusing on resilience, creativity, or courage.

    Conclusion


    The power of illustration is a remarkable gift, one that holds the potential to connect, inspire, and uplift others. As illustrators, we have the opportunity to impact our communities and audiences by creating art that speaks to the heart and mind. This influence should be used carefully, wisely, and generously, with an understanding of how images can shape emotions and spark change. Embrace this gift, and let your illustrations be a force for good in the world.