My objective for this project changed slightly as I delved deeper into the history of illustration. It became less about modern techniques but instead looking at older techniques that paved the path for the contemporary styles seen today. The development of digital technology through the industrial revolution certainly improved global recognition and production of illustrations however the time and care channeled into the intricately detailed biblical illuminations is unrivaled and really fascinated me. I have learnt that the art of illustration is severely under appreciated with a stigma continuously attached to it in modern society which is why I enjoyed learning about The Golden Age of American Illustration. I learnt this whilst researching for the timeline part of this study as I was unable to find a single informative book on illustration within several libraries. This art form is the one that we are exposed to the most in everyday life, yet it still doesn't receive the amount of attention it deserves and I hope that in the future its powerful potential will be acknowledged fully.
This project has taught me the value of traditional techniques and allowed me to question myself; what if these old methods were mixed with the modern? The personal study has also enabled me to recognise the variety and possibility associated with illustration which makes it so much more interesting than other areas and prevents me from restricting myself in future endeavors. It links well to my coursework project that involves a focus on digital illustration. I will ensure that this research into a wider variety of techniques and perspectives positively impacts my coursework outcome.
