Ideation
Conceptual illustration can be a challenging medium. It is easy to fall into cliche, overused solutions, or convoluted and obtuse imagery. However, if used well conceptual illustration can effectively engage and enlighten.
Utilizing visual substitution is a fundamental method of conceptual illustration, and yet it might lead you into a trap – once you have seen one astronaut eyeball, you may have seen them all.
Deep Dive
Contextual Juxtaposition is one approach to conceptual illustration that may avoid these pitfalls. It is the concept of placing narrative images within an unrelated context to explain and expand upon the contextual subject.
In this example we have a literal representation of a deep sea diver. However, presented in the context of “ideation” the image could suggest something more, such as the positive rewards of deeper creative exploration.
Exploration
Contextual Juxtaposition can avoid a lot of intellectual heavy lifting and allow you to get back to old fashioned storytelling.
To learn its potential just draw whatever narrative subject you like to draw for fun. For instance I like to draw science fiction stories. I drew this space character about six months ago. And by putting it in a new context (ideation) it could now suggest something more. Maybe about how creative exploration can lead to something unexpected.
Play
You will be surprised how effective this method can be. And the narratives don’t need to be complicated or conceptual. This character drawing is pretty straightforward. A kid kicking a soccer ball.
But again, put in the context of “ideation” this image could talk about kicking around an idea.
Doing conceptual art this way is relatively easy, the actual challenge is getting artists and clients to change their expectations.
