Surface Design: Turn your Artwork into Collections
Research and References
A course by Allison Cole , Illustrator and Surface Designer
Joined May 2021
About the video: Research and References
Overview
“Last, but not least, you will learn how to research what interests you, and discover ideas for creating your own reference. ”
In this video lesson Allison Cole addresses the topic: Research and References, which is part of the Domestika online course: Surface Design: Turn your Artwork into Collections. Create cohesive product collections using Adobe Illustrator for illustration, surface design, portfolio enhancement, and client engagement.
Partial transcription of the video
“When you sit down to draw or illustrate something that is not in front of you, it can be easy to do a quick Google image search and settle on some reference imagery in a matter of seconds. There's a few problems with relying solely on internet searches for your illustration work. One, the images are available to everyone. So if you're searching for plants, there's a big chance another illustrator out there is searching that same general term and getting the same or similar images. So they would be working from the same source imagery. The second problem is that the photographs that populate...”
This transcript is automatically generated, so it may contain mistakes.
Course summary for: Surface Design: Turn your Artwork into Collections
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Category
Illustration -
Software
Adobe Illustrator, Procreate -
Areas
Digital Drawing, Digital Illustration, Pattern Design, Vector Illustration

Allison Cole
A course by Allison Cole
Allison Cole is a seasoned illustrator and surface designer renowned for her vibrant and engaging creations. With a passion for art that dates back to her formative years, Allison honed her skills at The Rhode Island School of Design, where she gained a comprehensive understanding of the creative process. Her career journey began as a graphic designer and freelance illustrator, during which she explored the world of surface design by crafting and selling her own products. This self-driven initiative led her to discover the potential of creating art for products, ultimately guiding her towards a career in surface design.
Over time, Allison has collaborated with an impressive array of clients, including Target, Keds, and West Elm, and has developed product lines with brands such as Paintbrush Studio Fabrics and Badge Bomb. Her work is celebrated for its unique motifs, vibrant colors, and compelling compositions that capture the imagination. Allison's dedication to her craft is evident in her strategic approach to building her brand and establishing licensing partnerships. She continues to inspire artists by demonstrating how to transform illustrations into captivating collections, offering insights into the world of surface design with the aim of empowering others to see their work on products.
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- Level: Beginner
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