# Dark Twisted Toons Imaginative Illustrator 'McBess' Creates Edgy Cartoons By Armida Ascano | Published 2010-09-07 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/illustrator-mcbess References: [vectroave](http://vectroave.com/2010/09/mcbess-illustrations/mcbess-illustrations-matthieu-bessudo-19/) & [blog.mcbess](http://blog.mcbess.com/) Budding illustrator 'McBess' (or, Matthew Bessudo) is a highly creative individual with a talented hand and active imagination. His illustrations display a [dark, edgy humor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/garage-beer) executed through a vintage-esque style that is reminiscent of old [Disney](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biscuiteers-x-disney-collection). Regardless, illustrator McBess's work is anything but Disney. The often [morbid pieces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/junji-ito-artwork) from McBess's collection generally portray a harsh reality and underlying symbolism. Some images include a grinder labeled "kid burgers" and an over-eater's harsh inner thoughts. **Implications** - Consumers are appreciative of fine arts illustrations with a dark twist because the juxtaposition of children's cartoons with unnerving subject matter engages consumers on a cognitive level. Corporations that produce goods and offer services that challenge consumers mentally are more likely to garner business than companies that are complacent with not engaging consumers cognitively. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.9/10 - Popularity: 13% | Activity: 97% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Dark Illustrations:** There is an opportunity for companies to incorporate dark illustrations for marketing and branding purposes. - **Edgy Humor:** Companies can experiment with edgy humor in their advertising campaigns to engage their target consumers. - **Vintage-esque Style:** Using a vintage-esque style in digital illustrations can help companies create a distinct visual identity for their brand. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Marketing:** Marketing agencies can use McBess' style of illustrations to create attention-grabbing campaigns for their clients. - **Fashion:** Fashion brands that want to differentiate themselves can use dark illustrations in their clothing designs to appeal to consumers seeking edgier styles. - **Publishing:** Publishing companies can use McBess' illustrations to create book covers or illustrations in children's books that incorporate darker themes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Illustrated Streetwear Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wasted-youth-x-tappei.md) - [Branded Illustration Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/illustrations-ai.md) - [Cartoonish NFT Collectibles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/i-like-you-youre-weird.md) - [Character Crossover Figures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skullpanda-x-sanrio.md) - [Character Art-Infused Leather Bags](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moynat-x-kasing.md) - [Pop Art Legend-Honoring Dolls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/keiichi-tanaami-1.md) - [Cheekily Creative Bookmarks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/illustrated-bookmarks.md) - [Designer Pop Culture Figurines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kkplus.md) - [Limited Humorous Art Prints](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/david-shrigley-1.md)