The art series titled Animal Kingdom by Mark Summers, an artist based in Waterdown, Ontario, Canada, is comprised of stunning illustrations that are reminiscent of wood engravings. In particular, they bring to mind the work of Gustave Dore, a French artist who lived in the 1800s. Full of incredible detail, each illustration has a thatched aesthetic that recall vintage artworks from children's books and more.
Yet Animal Kingdom by Mark Summers is definitively modern. From the vibrant colors to the fluid lines, it is hard not to believe so. Created using the medium of scratchboards, the art series is testament to a strong talent. Since Summers has done work for Time, The Atlantic Monthly, Rolling Stone, Sports Illustrated and The National Law Journal, that comes as no surprise.
Engraving-Like Wildlife Illustrations
Animal Kingdom by Mark Summers Recalls Gustave Dore's Work
Trend Themes
1. Engraving-inspired Artwork - Opportunity for artists to create modern illustrations that pay homage to traditional engraving techniques.
2. Thatched Aesthetic - Potential for vintage-style illustrations to make a resurgence in children's books and other forms of art.
3. Medium of Scratchboards - Emerging market for artists to explore the unique artistic possibilities of scratchboards.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Design - Artists can incorporate engraving-inspired techniques to create unique and visually striking artwork.
2. Publishing - Publishers can capitalize on the popularity of vintage aesthetics by commissioning illustrations with a thatched aesthetic for children's books.
3. Art Supplies - Opportunity for art supply manufacturers to meet the demand for scratchboards and related tools among artists and illustrators.