Surreal Graphic Branding

Kristian Russell Uses Neon Colors & Trippy Details to Attract Gen Y

These branded illustrations by Kristian Russell, a member of Art Department, are anything but boring. Complex, imaginative colors give soul through neon strokes and color-infused designs.

Kristian Russell's style creates an imaginative, new look and feel for sporting, foods, technological and fashion brands. Appealing to Gen Y is key to keep these brands alive, and Russell's warm and exciting illustrations are attention-grabbers.

For more of Russell's portfolio, visit his page on Art Department's web site.

Implications - Consumers gravitate towards surreal images because they provide consumers with euphoria. The escapist sensations that these images invoke also act as stress relief, which consumers need as a coping mechanism for modern living. Corporations may consider using surreal imagery to brand their company and products.

Surreal Branding
Corporations can leverage surreal imagery to create an imaginative and attention-grabbing brand identity.
Neon Color Design
Using complex and imaginative neon colors in designs can attract and appeal to the younger Gen Y audience.
Trippy Illustrations
Incorporating trippy details in illustrations can create a warm and exciting brand aesthetic for sports, food, tech, and fashion brands.

Industries Being Reshaped

Fashion
Fashion brands can utilize surreal branding and trippy illustrations in their advertising campaigns to capture the attention of younger audiences.
Sports
Sports brands can use neon color design and surreal branding to create an edgy and captivating image for their products and merchandise.
Food
Food brands can leverage the use of trippy illustrations and surreal branding to differentiate themselves from competitors and create a unique and memorable brand identity.
SCORE
2.9 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America, Europe
GENERATION
  • Gen Z
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen X
  • Millennial (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 66%
Activity 14%
Freshness 8%

Solutions for innovators working at the edge of change. We help transform emerging ideas into practical, durable solutions by combining strategic thinking, creative exploration, and hands-on execution.

Trends © 2026 Trend Hunter Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LinkedIn Instagram X