Comics are not illustration, any more than fiction is…
“Comics are not illustration, any more than fiction is copywriting. Illustration is essentially the application of artistic technique or style to suit a commercial or ancillary purpose; not that cartooning can't be this (see any restaurant giveaway comic book or superhero media property as an example), but comics written and produced by a cartoonist sitting alone by him- or herself are not illustrations. They don't illustrate anything at all, they literally tell a story.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Comics differ from illustration; they tell stories rather than merely apply artistic technique for commercial purposes.
In simple terms: Comics tell stories; illustration decorates.
Key Takeaway
Recognize comics as narrative art.
Themes
art
storytelling
medium
visual
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Graphic novels
- advertising
- educational comics
- personal storytelling
Key Concepts
Narrative theory
visual communication
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you define the purpose of a visual work?
- When does illustration become storytelling?
A Different Perspective
Illustration can be narrative too, blurring lines.