Dynamic Vector Illustration: Keys to Color and Composition

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.

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.

Using essential design principles, create a dynamic vector illustration with limited elements and colors.

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.

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.