Dynamic Vector Illustration: Keys to Color and Composition
A course by Pietari Posti / Studio Posti Illustrator
A course by Pietari Posti / Studio Posti , Illustrator
Learn how to create impactful vector illustrations with balanced compositions and limited colors in Adobe Illustrator
Even the most eye-catching illustrations are built on the basics of design. By learning how contrast and color work together, you can use minimal tools to create bold visual worlds that stimulate the imagination and connect with viewers.
By balancing multiple shapes and limited colors, Pietari Posti has developed a unique aesthetic which has led him to work with companies like Apple, Starbucks, and Nespresso, as well as publications like Monocle, The Guardian, and The New York Times.
In this course, Pietari shows you that beautiful design doesn't have to be complex. By focusing on composition and color basics, he shows you how to train your creative eye and create lively vector illustrations from sketch to final product.
What will you learn in this online course?
22 lessons & 21 downloads
What We Will Do in the Course?
4 minutes, 12 seconds
Finding References 1
15 minutes, 52 seconds
Finding References 2
9 minutes, 56 seconds
The Basics of Composition
7 minutes, 47 seconds
The Basics of Color
10 minutes, 55 seconds
Sketching
19 minutes, 21 seconds
What's included in this course?
To begin, Pietari introduces himself and talks a bit about his experience working as a professional illustrator. Go through some of his favorite client projects and understand how your inspiration can influence your work.
In preparation for your final project, start to gather visual references to refine your concept. Explore some basic design concepts which will help you achieve the perfect balance of composition and color as you sketch your illustration manually or in Procreate.
Using Adobe Illustrator, start drawing the basic elements of your final project. Discover how to breathe life into your illustrations with minimal colors and by layering different gradients, highlights, and shadows.
Finally, learn how to add textures in Photoshop to achieve a more organic look and the best way to export your illustrations for online use or print.
Recommended software & tools for this course
What is this course's project?
Using essential design principles, create a dynamic vector illustration with limited elements and colors.
Projects by course students
Who is this online course for?
This course is for beginners who are interested in illustration or professional illustrators who would like to expand their understanding of how composition and color work together in design.
Requirements and materials
To participate in this course, you’ll need to sketch. This can be done with a pencil and paper or digitally with an iPad or a graphics tablet. For the final illustration, you’ll need a computer with Adobe Illustrator.
Basic drawing skills are nice to have but are not necessary.
Reviews
- 3 days ago
This course sucks! the teacher doesn't explain good and the sound is horrible!
- 4 months ago
This course has been really good, I was looking for something to start my journey in vector illustration and this was perfect.
- 5 months ago
Es muy bueno el proceso completo de su trabajo. Recomiendo!
- 6 months ago
cool moite
- 7 months ago
Es un buen curso para empezar y te da consejos para exportar un proyecto con resultados profesionales. Me gusta que se enfoca en crear con pocos elementos en la ilustración para poner el máximo detalle en cada uno y no arriesgar su calidad, ni distorsionar su enfoque. Muy bien explicado aunque a veces el ritmo es un poco lento.
Recognized for his use of bold shapes, sharp contrast, and expressive style, Pietari’s work in advertising, editorials, and publishing has attracted a diverse range of clients including Apple, Nespresso, Random House, Starbucks, Monocle, The New York Times, The Guardian, and more.
In 2013, Pietari won the Victor & Albert Museum Best Book Cover Illustration Award for Arthur Ransome’s Swallows & Amazons.
Content
- U1
Introduction
- About Me
- Influences
- What We Will Do in the Course?
- U2
Training Your Eye
- Finding References 1
- Finding References 2
- The Basics of Composition
- The Basics of Color
- Sketching
- Choosing and Refining Final Sketch 1
- Choosing and Refining Final Sketch 2
- U3
Let’s Draw Vectors
- Drawing the Basic Elements 1
- Drawing the Basic Elements 2
- Drawing the Basic Elements 3
- Drawing the Basic Elements 4
- Drawing the Basic Elements 5
- Applying Color
- Applying Gradients, Shadows, and Highlights 1
- Applying Gradients, Shadows, and Highlights 2
- Refining and Cleaning up Your Illustration 1
- Refining and Cleaning up Your Illustration 2
- U4
Optional Finishing Touches and Exporting Your Work
- Adding Textures and Analogue Feel to Your Vector Illustration
- Exporting Illustration - for Digital Use and Print Use
- FP
Final project
- Dynamic Vector Illustration: Color and Composition
What to expect from a Domestika course
Learn at your own pace
Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.
Learn from the best professionals
Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.
Meet expert teachers
Each expert teaches what they do best, with clear guidelines, true passion, and professional insight in every lesson.
Certificates
PLUSIf you're a Plus member, get a custom certificate signed by your teacher for every course. Share it on your portfolio, social media, or wherever you like.
Get front-row seats
Videos of the highest quality, so you don't miss a single detail. With unlimited access, you can watch them as many times as you need to perfect your technique.
Share knowledge and ideas
Ask questions, request feedback, or offer solutions. Share your learning experience with other students in the community who are as passionate about creativity as you are.
Connect with a global creative community
The community is home to millions of people from around the world who are curious and passionate about exploring and expressing their creativity.
Watch professionally produced courses
Domestika curates its teacher roster and produces every course in-house to ensure a high-quality online learning experience.
FAQs
Yes, this course is designed for intermediate artists who have some experience with illustration and want to develop their portfolio, refine their style, and learn advanced digital techniques.
You will need Adobe Illustrator, a computer or tablet for digital illustration, and access to reference image platforms like Pinterest or Google Images. Familiarity with digital drawing tools is recommended.
You will learn how to build a professional illustration portfolio, develop a unique style, use references effectively, master color theory, and refine digital artwork for commercial and personal projects.
Yes, the course teaches techniques for collecting, organizing, and using reference images from platforms like Pinterest and Google Images to inspire and inform your artwork.
Absolutely. The course covers creating, editing, and refining vector illustrations in Adobe Illustrator, including using layers, paths, gradients, and export techniques.
You’ll receive step-by-step guidance on curating and presenting your work, developing personal and commercial projects, and refining pieces to showcase your skills to potential clients or agents.
Yes, it includes insights into working with illustration agents, understanding contracts, and managing professional relationships for freelance illustrators.