Insights
Insights
Notes on illustration for interpretation, maps and public engagement: how projects were approached, what to think about when commissioning, and what I’ve learned along the way.
Where the evidence ends: drawing what we don’t know
How interpretive illustration should handle gaps in the historical record: imagined portraits, chosen moments and reconstructed practice, with examples from heritage projects.
Illustrating difficult histories without taking sides
How illustration can approach contested and uncomfortable histories, drawing on work for Uncomfortable Oxford: raising questions rather than delivering verdicts.
Commissioning illustration for a heritage project: a practical guide
A practical guide to commissioning illustration for museums and heritage projects: briefs, choosing an illustrator, costs, licensing, files and approvals.
How map illustration can engage visitors
Discover how an illustrated map can engage visitors, tell stories, spark curiosity and become part of the visitor experience.
How museum illustration brings heritage stories to life
Discover how museum illustration brings heritage stories to life, engages visitors and creates meaningful links between audiences across time.
Brand Impact Awards Judge 2026
An exclusive look at my role as a brand impact awards judge. Discover insights from the jury panel experience.
Commissioning a freelance map illustrator
Learn the essentials of commissioning a map illustrator for your projects. Transform your ideas into stunning illustrated maps.Joining Illustrators for Hire
I'm part of Illustrators for hire, a highly professional network of illustrators delivering exceptional artwork for your project needs,
Brand illustration for events
Discover how brand illustration for events enhances event experiences through immersive visuals, storytelling, and engaging interactions.
Map illustration for editorial
Editorial map illustration - thoughts on the process when creating a series of maps for Scottish Field magazine.
Hire a freelance illustrator: ideas to consider
Essential tips to hire an illustrator, from defining project goals to evaluating portfolios for impactful results.
Why you should use illustration in marketing
Discover the power of illustration in marketing to engage audiences, and tell your brand's story. Learn the impact of visual storytelling.
Role of research in illustration
Research in illustration - Explore how research enriches illustration, using 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' as inspiration.
Recipe illustration: King prawns in a garlic sauce
Recipe illustration with a focus on king prawns - this post explains the inspiration and process behind this recipe illustration.
Illustrating meaning in posters
Meaning in poster illustration is a blog post about how layers meaning can enrich the visual impact of a poster and enhance storytelling.
Have a place or subject that needs explaining?
Tell me a little about it: what it is, who it’s for and roughly when you need it.