Vision

Developments in Illustration Design 

This field is subject to continual change due to the host of technological applications (such as websites and apps) as well as new partnerships. Illustration Design combines these modern innovations with the traditional values of the field, such as storytelling, the craft and creation of authentic images. You are challenged to follow and apply innovations critically and to rely on your own inspiration and story.

Autonomy as a defining characteristic

We train unique illustrators, who openly and committedly engage with a rapidly changing world, which they enrich with new stories and meanings. During the course, you will develop your own particular perspective towards images, which will enable you to begin your interpretation and implementation of a given assignment or question based on your personal experience and perspective. The course emphasises the communicative power of images as a source of inspiration. Autonomy is what characterises the ArtEZ courses in Zwolle.

Individual research

The course Illustration Design also distinguishes itself through the time and space committed to students’ individual research. This research is aimed at providing insight into the field as well as into your individual talents and preferences. This individual research culminates in the final examinations: your graduation work, internship and thesis. Through these you will show: ‘this is who I am’, ‘this is what I do’ and ‘this is what I stand for.’

Own niche as an illustrator

This approach to the field means that you will dedicate yourself fully to your studies and later your field. From the diversity of the work, it is obvious that our alumni have developed their own very particular style or visual language and are able to carve out a market niche for themselves in innovative and enterprising ways.