Term: Illustration

An illustration is a piece of art that elucidates or decorates another media by providing a visual representation of the content. Illustration art is different from gallery art in that illustrations are typically commissioned for reproduction as part of the other media (such as, a published story, printed poster or advertisement). As part of the commission, illustrators are often asked to submit rough drafts, color studies, and even make changes to the finish artwork. In this sense illustrations are supportive in nature and are not intended to stand alone as gallery art must do. That being said, many illustrations have interest and appeal outside the context for which they were created and sell well as fine art.