Conceptual illustrations using color and symbolism
A course by Christina ChungIllustrator
A course by Christina Chung, Illustrator
Learn how to turn your ideas into stunning illustrations by using color and symbolism to create compelling visuals.
Explore the captivating world of conceptual illustration in this online course led by Christina Chung, a renowned illustrator. With a portfolio that includes projects for clients such as Lucasfilm, The New York Times, and Dark Horse Comics, Christina is a master at interpreting complex ideas and transforming them into compelling illustrations.
In this course, Christina will guide you through the process of generating captivating conceptual illustrations that tell a story. Delve into the art of breaking down complex ideas into core concepts, using metaphors, and employing symbolism to breathe life into your illustrations. From developing and choosing a concept to refining sketches and creating a color palette, Christina will provide you with invaluable insights and techniques.
Through hands-on exercises, you will learn how to use color, composition, and symbolism to evoke emotions and create powerful narratives. With Christina's guidance, you will bring your concepts to life in both black and white and vibrant color, infusing your illustrations with depth and meaning.
What will you learn in this online course?
14 lessons & 26 downloads
Refining Sketches and Choosing the Concept 1
16 minutes, 59 seconds
Refining Sketches and Choosing the Concept 2
17 minutes, 9 seconds
Prepping the Illustration in Photoshop
7 minutes, 24 seconds
Working in Black and White 2
8 minutes, 37 seconds
Adding Color and Texture
17 minutes, 40 seconds
What's included in this course?
To start, you will dive into the process of developing and choosing a concept, learning how to brainstorm, collect references, and create thumbnails. Next, you'll refine your sketches, exploring different ideas and compositions. With Christina's guidance, you'll discover how to elaborate a color palette and set up Photoshop for your illustration.
Moving forward, you'll explore the power of black and white illustrations, focusing on composition, contrast, and texture. Then, you'll progress to adding color and texture, breathing life into your artwork and conveying the desired mood. Finally, you'll learn the necessary adjustments and formatting techniques to finalize your illustration.
Throughout the course, Christina will also share valuable advice on finding your own artistic voice, growing as an artist, and effectively sharing your work online. By the end, you'll have the skills and knowledge to create compelling conceptual illustrations that engage and resonate with viewers.
Recommended software & tools for this course
What is this course's project?
For the final project, you will create an evocative piece centered around the theme of hardship. Using symbolism, color, and composition, you will create an artwork that tells a story and conveys a powerful message. This project will allow you to apply the techniques and concepts learned throughout the course, showcasing your newfound skills in conceptual illustration.
Projects by course students
Who is this online course for?
This course is aimed at illustrators and artists of all levels who are interested in honing their conceptual thinking skills and creating narratives through art. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore the world of illustration or an experienced artist wanting to take your work to the next level, this course provides a wealth of knowledge and practical techniques to enhance your artistic journey.
Requirements and materials
To fully participate in this course, you will need a Wacom Cintiq Pro or an iPad with Procreate. Additionally, basic knowledge of Adobe Photoshop is recommended. This course is designed for anyone with a passion for illustration and storytelling, providing a platform to develop your skills and express your creativity through art.
Reviews
- 2 months ago
Il m’a permis d’améliorer mon processus de création.
- 3 months ago
Es la primera vez que tomo un curso de ilustración. Me está gustando. Voy en la introducción, pero justo necesito introducirme, así que está bien, me está gustando.
- 2 years ago
I loved this course so much, the instructor explained every aspect of design clearly and in a truly engaging way. I highly recommend this course to my friends – it's fantastic! Now, it is time for me to apply new techniques to my projects.
- 2 years ago
Curso interesante . <3
- 2 years ago
Un curso para aprender a entender lo que quieres empezar a crear
Christina's talent has graced book covers, newspapers, magazines, and advertising campaigns, allowing her to establish herself as a respected and sought-after illustrator in the industry. Join Christina on this creative journey and let her inspire you to translate your ideas into powerful images.
Content
- U1
Introduction
- About Me
- Influences
- U2
Ideation and Sketching
- Developing a Concept
- The Thumbnailing Process
- Refining Sketches and Choosing the Concept 1
- Refining Sketches and Choosing the Concept 2
- Creating a Color Palette
- U3
From Sketch to Illustration
- Prepping the Illustration in Photoshop
- Working in Black and White 1
- Working in Black and White 2
- Adding Color and Texture
- Final Touches and Adjustments
- U4
Creating Your Identity as an Illustrator
- Finding Your Style
- Sharing Your Work Online
- FP
Final project
- Create Compelling Conceptual Illustrations
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 want to deepen their conceptual illustration skills and refine their digital and traditional workflows.
You will need access to Adobe Photoshop and a drawing tablet like a Wacom Cintiq. Familiarity with layer management and basic digital illustration tools is recommended.
You’ll learn how to develop a unique illustration style, build concepts from prompts, create layered compositions, use limited color palettes, and manage digital workflows for editorial and publishing projects.
Yes, the course teaches strategies for balancing client needs, communicating with art directors, and managing professional illustration projects.
Yes, the course includes book cover illustration techniques and explores visual storytelling approaches used in graphic novels.
Conceptual illustration is about visually interpreting ideas or narratives. In editorial work, it’s used to communicate complex themes quickly and creatively, often under tight deadlines.
You’ll analyze personal and cultural influences, experiment with different media, and refine your style through exercises in visual storytelling, color palettes, and technique exploration.