In between recent creative projects, I finally gave some much-needed attention to a corner of my digital presence that I’d neglected for years—my LinkedIn profile.
I’ve had it for over two decades, but it remained almost willfully minimalistic. Sparse. Mysterious, perhaps. It certainly didn’t reflect the breadth of my work, or the clients and collaborators I’ve been fortunate to partner with over the years. I’m happy to share that it’s now fully updated—with a professional new header, an accurate timeline, and over 40 detailed project entries complete with media and visuals.
What You’ll See There Now
The header alone already gives you a strong sense of what I do:
“Illustrator & Creative Director | Cartoons, Mascots, Business Comics & Character Design | Branding, UX/UI, Storytelling & Motion | Available Worldwide”
Below that, you’ll find a growing library of case studies, media files, and a concise look into the work that clients trust me with—from Switzerland to Germany to France, and beyond.
Based in France – Working Globally
My name is Ian David Marsden, and I’m a Swiss illustrator, character designer, and creative director. I’m currently based in Claret, near Montpellier, in the beautiful Pic Saint Loup region of southern France. This is where my fully equipped studio is located, and where most of my visual and storytelling work is conceptualized and produced.
While my location is France, my clients are international. I’m perfectly bilingual in English and German, and I also work with a full business-level proficiency in French. Whether it’s a wine label for a domaine in the Languedoc, a mascot for a startup in Berlin, or an editorial illustration for a Swiss publisher, I bring cross-cultural awareness, professional fluency, and artistic clarity to each project.
Die Weihnachtszeit ist da – und ich freue mich, Ihnen ein besonderes Projekt vorzustellen, das ich für meinen langjährigen Freund und kreativen Kollegen Helmi Siggillustrieren durfte. Helmi, ein bekannter Schweizer Schauspieler, Komiker und Autor, Mitglied von Trio Eden ( und Martha, Murmelimutter in “Ewigi Liebi”) hat mich eingeladen, das Cover für seine humorvolle und doch tiefgründige Weihnachtsgeschichte “Zwei Buchstaben” zu gestalten.
Die Geschichte handelt von einem Kind, das auf unerwartete Weise zwei Buchstaben verwechselt – ein simpler Fehler, der jedoch große Bedeutung entfaltet. Helmi hat diese charmante und originelle Kurzgeschichte auf eine Art und Weise geschrieben, die zum Nachdenken anregt und gleichzeitig ein Lächeln zaubert.
Illustration mit Herz und Humor
Als Helmi mich bat, das Cover zu entwerfen, war ich sofort begeistert von der kreativen Herausforderung. Es war mir eine Freude, diese Illustration zu erschaffen – eine Mischung aus traditionellem Weihnachtsflair und satirischen Akzenten, die Helmis unkonventionelle Geschichte perfekt ergänzen.
Your first consultation is always completely free. This is an opportunity to discuss your project in detail, explore creative ideas, and ensure we are perfectly aligned before moving forward.
Transparent Flat Rates
I believe in providing clear, predictable pricing. Once we discuss your project, I will calculate a flat rate tailored specifically to your needs.
• No Surprises: The flat rate includes all work, revisions, and desired usage rights. There will be no additional charges or overtime fees.
• 30-Day Guarantee: Your quote will remain valid for 30 days. Once agreed upon, the flat rate will be respected, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.
How I Set My Rates
My pricing is based on established industry standards and reflects the value of high-quality creative work. As a professional illustrator, designer, and animator, I align my rates with the guidance of respected organizations and industry benchmarks (please see links below). These rates account for the time, skill, and expertise required to create unique, impactful work tailored to your needs.
What Influences Pricing?
1. Scope of Work
The size, complexity, and specific requirements of your project, such as detailed illustrations or animation sequences.
2. Usage Rights
The intended use of the work (e.g., local, national, or international campaigns) and whether you need exclusive rights. Licensing fees are calculated based on established industry multipliers.
3. Revisions and Timeline
The number of revisions included in the project and the delivery schedule can influence pricing for projects with tight deadlines or extended iteration cycles.
4. Country and Region
Pricing reflects regional market standards to ensure fairness and competitiveness. In each case, the pricing is based on local pricing guidelines provided by trusted organizations. Please see the links below for more details.
Trusted Industry Sources
My pricing is informed by the following trusted organizations and resources:
Pricing and trends in motion graphics and animation.
Why Choose Me?
Working with clients globally, I provide creative solutions adaptable to various timelines and budgets. With extensive experience partnering with major brands and projects across Switzerland, Germany, France, and beyond, here’s why clients keep coming back:
• Professional Quality: Years of experience with top brands ensure you receive polished, high-quality work.
• Adaptable Pricing: Options for every budget without compromising on quality.
• Dedicated Attention: Your project will receive the focused, personalized care it deserves.
• Global Expertise: Benefit from decades of experience across international markets.
• Transparent Pricing: Your investment is supported by clear, reliable rates based on global standards.
This is not an anti-AI post. It’s remarkable to see how far artificial intelligence (AI) has come, to the point where it can now compete with human abilities. I stare in marvel (and horror) at the current generation of AI generated images.
Maybe the above logo will become the art equivalent of the BIO labels at grocery stores
I am not someone who shies away from new tools or techniques, nor am I a technophobe. As someone who has been an avid fan and user of computers since childhood, I have experienced the evolution of technology firsthand. It always seemed inevitable that this day would arrive at some point, I think what is most surprising is how rapidly it is suddenly advancing. It is difficult for us to understand, because the human brain is not wired for exponential growth. We simply can not understand and imagine it.
Als Illustrator, Cartoonist und Produzent von Erklär- und Promotionsvideos hatte ich die Freude und Ehre, ein einzigartiges Hand-gezeichnetes Erklärvideo für das Zürich Gym zu erstellen. Das Fitnessstudio wird von Inhaber und Europameister Frank Müller geleitet, der nicht nur ein erfahrener Personal Trainer, sondern auch ein Experte für Sporternährung ist. Er ist auch ein alter und guter persönlicher Freund von mir, so hat es Spass gemacht ihn in meinem Video mit mehreren handgezeichneten Porträts zu verewigen.
Das Zürich Gym – Hurt Locker – 24 Stunden geöffnet – ist ein erstklassiges Fitnessstudio, welches seinen Kunden ein volles Topp-Programm bietet. Dank der neuesten Fingerprint-Sicherheitstechnologie können Kunden jederzeit das Studio betreten und ihre Trainingseinheiten beginnen.
Das Ziel des Erklär- und Promotionsvideos war es, in spielerischer Weise auf die Vorteile des ZürichGym aufmerksam zu machen und potenzielle Kunden anzusprechen.
Explainer videos have become a popular tool for businesses and startups to market their products and ideas in an engaging and informative way. But not all explainer videos are created equal. Cheap productions that use reusable clipart and avatars may seem like a cost-effective option, but investing in custom-created and hand-drawn explainer videos can have numerous benefits for your business.
Custom-created and hand-drawn explainer videos offer an elegant and tailored solution to suit any product or presentation. With the art of illustration, any scenario is possible for a reasonable budget, making it a more cost-effective option than traditional methods such as a photoshoot with models, influencers and moviestars and tons of costumes and props in a fancy studio, or on location on a yacht or a private jet. (Why not just draw all of these elements?)
Commissioned cover illustration in a fun, colourful, cartoon style on the topic of „public transportation“
Appeared in Nebelspalter Magazine, May 2022
Nebelspalter Titelblatt Mai 2022 “Stossverkehr” von Ian David Marsden
The Nebelspalter is a Swiss satirical magazine. It was founded in 1875 by Jean Nötzli of Zurich as an “illustrated humorous political weekly.” The magazine was modelled on British magazine Punch. When Punch ceased publication in 2002, Nebelspalter became the oldest continually published humour magazine in the world.
Creative Together! Connected Ink 21-hour Drawing Party
Celsys is pleased to announce the Creative Together! Connected Ink 21-hour Drawing Party at Wacom’s Connected Ink, one of the world’s most advanced digital pen & stationery events.
Drawing LIVE, Tuesday November 17, 2020 from 20:00 to 21:30 (CET) on the Theme: THE CITY AT NIGHT, Ian David Marsden (France) will be drawing on his Wacom Cintiq 27 QHD Touch in Clip Studio Paint software.
Various Designs for John Hennigan by Ian David Marsden
I had the pleasure of creating another cool wrestling shirt design for the legendary wrestler John Hennigan, who is also known as Johnny Impact, Johnny Nitro, Johnny Mundo, and most recently as the mayor of SLAMTOWN. This time around, the shirt design is titled “SLAMTOWN Office of Mayor”, featuring a striking illustration of a skull and crossbones, adorned with Johnny’s trademark sunglasses with crosses on the lenses.
Creating this shirt design for John was an amazing experience. He is one of the easiest and most amazing clients I have ever had the pleasure of working for. He trusts my creativity and lets me use my imagination, allowing me to create designs that truly capture his essence as a wrestler and entertainer.
John Hennigan is a true wrestling legend, with a career spanning over two decades. He has won numerous championships across different wrestling promotions, including WWE, Impact Wrestling, and Lucha Underground. He has also ventured into acting, appearing in movies and TV shows such as “Boone: The Bounty Hunter” and “Survivor”.
This is not the first time I’ve worked with John. In fact, I previously designed a wrestling shirt for him titled “This is My World” featuring his Johnny Mundo persona. It was a fun and challenging project that allowed me to push my creative limits and come up with a design that captured John’s persona perfectly.
SLAMTOWN – Office of Mayor Shirt design by Ian David Marsden
In conclusion, it was an absolute honor to work with John Hennigan again and create a cool wrestling shirt design that represents his new role as the mayor of SLAMTOWN. If you’re a fan of John Hennigan or wrestling in general, make sure to check out this shirt and add it to your collection. And if you’re in need of a talented illustrator, cartoonist, character designer, or producer of explainer videos, don’t hesitate to contact me for your next creative project.
Custom Illustration for a personal invitation based on photographs provided by the client. The people needed to be recognizable and the drawing had to have a connection to surfing and also to wine.
Character Design, Backround Design, Asset Design and Illustrations for “Knowledge Nuggets” micro-learning videos for the United States Federal Acquisition Institute (FAI).
Artist: Ian David Marsden Media: Vector Artwork in Adobe Illustrator CC
More examples of explainer videos and whiteboard videos with my artwork and a description of the production process can be found HERE
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the necessity for engaging, dynamic content is paramount. As attention spans contract, the ability to swiftly capture and sustain viewer engagement is vital. Moving visuals, especially hand-drawn videos, shine as invaluable assets in this domain. Their charm and animated nature don’t just convey your message; they make it memorable.
Whiteboard or Explainer Videos blend simplicity with creativity, masterfully transforming complex topics into digestible and captivating narratives. With over two decades of expertise in illustration, character design, and cartooning, I infuse every video with a distinct, refined touch.
Our partnership kicks off with a comprehensive briefing, allowing me to deeply understand your aspirations and objectives. Scripting and storyboarding follow, laying down the visual and narrative blueprint. I pride myself on my commitment to authenticity and originality. The videos I craft avoid the trappings of generic templates and characters, opting instead for custom illustrations that harmonize with your brand and its message.
In a market saturated with providers leveraging software, pre-loaded drawings, and templated assets, many videos risk looking indistinguishably similar, potentially exuding an air of uninspired mass production. My approach contrasts sharply. Every creation is genuinely hand-drawn, custom-tailored, and deeply attuned to your brand’s ethos. The styles you might have enjoyed in my portfolio? All are at your disposal, from monochromatic sketches to vivid, full-color masterpieces.
Yet, quality doesn’t necessitate extravagance. Despite offering expert craftsmanship and bespoke content, my rates are surprisingly competitive. The proposition is clear: top-tier quality without the top-tier price. Each collaboration is structured with transparent, flat-rate estimates from conception to completion, ensuring you can plan without the stress of unforeseen costs. Defined milestones keep the project on track and punctual.
Your message deserves prominence. Should you be seeking an authentic, captivating narrative, whether for product showcases, service introductions, or business processes, I am poised to deliver. Reach out, let’s discuss a no-commitment offer, and embark on a journey to make your content distinct, engaging, and memorable.
Thank you for considering a collaboration. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.
Some examples of video series produced in english, german and french using known voice talents:
Beispielvideo auf Deutsch mit der Stimme von Schauspieler Kaspar Eichel (Schauspieler und Synchronsprecher. Er ist bekannt als die deutsche Stimme von Robert Redford)
Example Video in English with the voice of David A. Watson
Vidéo en Français avec la voix de Daniel Beretta Daniel Beretta, est un acteur, auteur-compositeur-interprète Également célèbre pour son travail dans le milieu du doublage, il est notamment la voix française régulière d’Arnold Schwarzenegger
Every video and all illustrations are custom made with care and precision. No clip-art or stock art. No re-usable characters, no repeated faces, bodies or puppets. No prefabricated explainer software.
What are the costs?
Please contact me for a free und non-binding flat-rate estimate, custom made for your needs and project requirements. My flat rates include idea phase, storyboarding, final art, video production and transfer of usage rights (also for characters and artwork).
Knowledge Nuggets for the Federal Acquisition Institute:
Business illustration – clean, clear, appealing, professional
Artist Ian David Marsden with decades of international experience in the field can provide you with custom-made business illustrations in various styles. Clean, clear, appealing and highly professional illustrations in black and white, with a spot color or fully colored. Text and processes which may seem rather dry or technical can be livened up and rendered more enjoyable and interesting. The readers’ focus can be guided towards important details in a subtle and appealing way. These illustrations can also be used as chapter headers, icons or thumbnails on websites or presentations. There is also the option of having animation or drawing or sliding hand effects, music and voiceover added as well.
Please contact me for a free consultation and a comprehensive flat-fee estimate which will include transferral of usage rights.
A person wearing gloves uses a knife to trim a truffle held above a loaf of bread.
A hand holding a large mushroom is depicted in the foreground of a wooded area. In the background, two more mushrooms of similar appearance are shown growing among grass and small plants. The illustration features muted colors and soft shading.
Two individuals in protective clothing and masks work in a sterile lab environment. One holds a document and uses a handheld device to interact with a large container, while the other observes. The setup includes electronic equipment and containers.
A person wearing a glove is interacting with a wall-mounted metal box labeled “GASNEX.” The individual is pulling out a printed strip, which appears to be a receipt or a log sheet, from the device.
A person in professional attire is seated at a desk using a computer. The screen displays a document with a numbered sequence, and arrows indicate a flow or progression to other documents. Three colored circles with numbers (1, 2, and 3) are shown on the left side, suggesting a step-by-step process.
A magnifying lens focusing on the center of a brown, textured surface with a circular magnification indicator labeled “4x” next to it.
An engineer wearing a hard hat examines a diagram near a large industrial tank, with interconnected pipes and control panels visible on the wall.
The image depicts an industrial mixing tank, partially submerged in a liquid bath. The tank contains solid particles being agitated in a liquid, with visible fluid dynamics indicating mixing in progress. External pipes and a control mechanism are attached to the tank for flow regulation.
The image depicts an industrial tank with a heating element, indicated by a red outline. The tank contains a substance being heated, shown by the downward arrow. A pipe on top releases steam or gas, represented by white cloud shapes, illustrated in the right corner.
Diagram of a cyclone separator showing the process of separating particulates from an air stream. The air enters from the side, spins inside a conical chamber, and exits with the heavier particles falling into a collection area. Arrows indicate airflow and particle movement.
A border control scene depicts a truck unloading a large blue shipping container. A person in uniform examines documents nearby. The German flag and an emblem with the word “Zoll” (customs) are visible in the background.
An illustration featuring a deer standing in a forest with two large mushrooms growing on fallen logs. The background is filled with green foliage, conveying a natural woodland setting.
The illustration depicts a mushroom with a brown cap and thick stalk emerging from the ground. The underground section shows the roots spreading outward beneath the surface.
The illustration features an elderly man wearing traditional Chinese clothing, holding a mushroom in his hands. In the background, there is a watercolor depiction of a forest landscape.
An illustration depicts a forest scene with two large mushrooms growing on pieces of cut log. The background features dense foliage and trees, adding a natural setting.
An illustration of a cylindrical metal tank connected to horizontal pipes on a dark background. The tank includes vertical supports and a small protruding cylinder on top, with a handle adjacent.
A scientist wearing a blue cap, mask, and gloves is observing a sample through a microscope in a laboratory setting.
The image depicts a manufacturing process with capsules moving along multiple conveyor belts towards a machine. The setting appears industrial, and the capsules are uniformly aligned in rows.
Label design featuring a knight with a cross on its clothing, holding a sword and a stone. The background shows a mountain, and the text includes “Mas de Figuier,” “Pic Saint Loup,” and “Roc de Couder.” A red vertical stripe is on the right side, and signature details are at the bottom.
A man in an office is analyzing data displayed on a whiteboard and multiple computer screens, which show various charts and graphs. The room has bookshelves and a window with views of city buildings.
A person is using a manual pallet jack to transport stacked boxes and crates in a warehouse setting. An open truck with a ramp is parked nearby, ready for loading or unloading.
A person is sitting at a desk in front of a computer, working in an organized warehouse. Shelves filled with labeled boxes line the walls. Another individual is seen through a glass window, holding a clipboard and looking into the room.
An illustration of a person sitting at a desk, looking at a computer screen displaying a colorful chart. The setting includes a potted plant and framed pictures on the wall in the background.
An illustration features three people in front of different storefronts. On the left, a man in an apron holds a bouquet of flowers outside a fruit kiosk. In the center, a woman stands in front of a cafe. On the right, a chef is positioned in front of a restaurant. Each individual is smiling and waving.
