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Illustration Industry 2024: Latest Trends and Future Projections

People are in a meeting discussing graphic design trends in 2024; this image is featured on the Mad Matt Design website

Are you interested in pursuing a career in graphic design illustration? Aspiring illustrators can benefit greatly from exploring industry trends and forecasts to stay ahead of the game. In this article, we'll explore the latest graphic design illustration trends and art styles predicted for 2024, the future of illustration as a career, and the demand for illustrators in the job market.


 Graphic chart depicting trends in the creative industry in 2024

Trend Forecast for Graphic Design Illustration in 2024

Experts predict that the illustration industry will experience significant growth for the next decade, with more businesses in need of creative visuals to their brand and message. Here are some of the key trends to look forward to in graphic design illustration in 2024:


Example of Bold and Colorful Designs, featured on the Mad Matt Design website
Bold and Colorful Designs

Illustrators will be experimenting with bold and bright colors to grab the viewer's attention. Designers will also be using more gradients and patterns to create depth and visual interest in their artwork. This trend means that illustrations will be moving away from minimalist and monochromatic styles.

 Example of Hand-Drawn and Mixed Media Techniques, featured on the Mad Matt Design website.
Hand-Drawn and Mixed Media Techniques

A movement toward more organic and 'real' illustrations is expected, which means that hand-drawn and mixed media techniques will be more popular. Illustrators will increasingly incorporate physical elements into their digital artwork.

Example of 3D and Visual Storytelling, featured on the Mad Matt Design website.
3D and Visual Storytelling

Visual storytelling is already a key part of graphic design illustration, and it's expected to become even more important in 2024. Illustrators will be using 3D software and techniques to create more visually engaging and interactive experiences.


Brushstroke showcasing Art Style Insights for 2024, featured on the Mad Matt Design website.

Art Style Insights for 2024

Dialogues between creatives and with art history itself evolve history—Alber Oehlen

Alongside the projected trends, there are also specific art movements and styles that are expected to dominate the illustration industry in 2024.


Example of an Art Deco-style illustration, featured on the Mad Matt Design website.
Art Deco

Art Deco style was popular in the 1920s and 30s and is marked by bold geometric shapes, decorative details, and a futuristic aesthetic. This style is expected to make a comeback, frequently used in logos, advertisements, and branding.


 Example of graphic design with Minimalism style, showcased on the Mad Matt Design website.
Minimalism

Minimalism will continue to be a popular style choice for illustrators. The use of bright, solid colors and no superfluous details can help reinforce the simple messages in the artwork.


Example of graphic design with Retro/Vintage style, featured on the Mad Matt Design website.
Retro/Vintage Style

The retro/vintage style has been popular for a few years, and it's expected to keep growing in 2024. The vintage design trend is characterized by muted colors, hand-drawn elements, and typography heavily influenced by advertising typography from the 1950s.


The Future of Illustration: Opportunities and Challenges

the future of illustration industry by Mad Matt Design

So what could the future look like for illustration as a career choice? Illustration is an integral part of design, and this means that opportunities will open up in a more digitally-focused world. Here are some observations about the future of the illustration industry:


More Automation

The rise of automation and machine learning will have a significant impact on illustration in the future. Illustrators will need to adjust by finding ways to work with machines when needed and internalizing new digital methods that cropping up in the industry.


Rising Competition

With increasing numbers of individuals graduating with qualifications in design and illustration, the competition for illustration jobs is going to be even more significant in the future. Illustrators need to find unique selling points that will differentiate them in the crowded marketplace.


Diversification and Multiskilling

In the illustration industry, being multitalented across different areas is now an asset. Illustrators can increase their chances of landing good paying jobs by being versatile, confident in teamwork, and knowledgeable of different processes like 3D modeling, animation, storyboarding, and more.


Is Being an Illustrator in High Demand?

Illustration job growth is expected to remain faster than average between 2019-2029, and with nearly 30% of all creative professionals working as illustrators, it's safe to say that it’s a job in high demand. Talented illustrators who have honed their craft stand to benefit from the growing client demands for illustrations needed for branding, advertising, and more, making it a valuable career choice.


Conclusion


 Image of the Mad Matt Design team explaining an ongoing project to a client.

In conclusion, Mad Matt Design Studio is well-positioned to thrive in the growing illustration industry in 2024. With our expertise in staying updated with the latest trends and embracing emerging art styles, we are committed to providing cutting-edge illustrations and designs for our clients. Aspiring illustrators, industry players, or students looking to learn more can rely on Mad Matt Design Studio as a trusted source of information and a partner in their creative journey.

To learn more about Mad Matt Design Studio or schedule a consultation with our team, please contact us directly. We look forward to helping you succeed in the dynamic illustration industry of 2024.

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