Illustration

Official Shop for the art of Ian David Marsden

You Asked, I Listened – Introducing Modicum Editions

For years, people have asked me, “Ian, where can I buy prints of your artwork?” It happened everywhere—at gallery openings, in social media messages, once even from a neighbor shouting over the hedge while I was trying to rescue, what I initially thought was a cat, from a lemon tree. And for years, I’d mutter something about “getting around to it,” wave my hands vaguely, and change the subject with the grace of a stage magician distracting you from a disappearing elephant.

The truth is, I’m almost always neck-deep in other projects—new illustrations, commissioned work, graphic novels, the occasional midnight flash of inspiration that demands to be drawn right now. Then there’s the never shrinking stack of books on my bedside table and there was the small matter of eternal procrastination of actually organizing the prints: creating the files in all the necessary sizes, researching the best printers, and writing descriptions and keywords that didn’t sound like they were written by an ego-maniac. Easy, right? Sure—if you have six clones.

Elegant and vibrant art posters by Ian David Marsden from Modicum Editions, beautifully framed and displayed in a modern living room, showcasing the perfect blend of art and interior design.

It meant finding top-quality printers who could capture every detail and vibrant color of my hand-drawn illustrations, using eco-friendly inks and papers, and delivering museum-quality prints that would make even the most discerning art lover nod approvingly. After a ridiculous amount of research, I found my solution: Gelato.

Eco friendly highest quality prints

Now, let’s clear something up—no, they don’t make ice cream. They’re a global printing company known for their museum-quality prints and five-star reputation. They print locally in Europe, the United States, and other locations worldwide, which means no intercontinental jet-setting for your artwork (saving the planet, one carbon footprint at a time). They also use eco-friendly materials, which means you can hang my art on your wall without feeling like you just punched a rainforest in the Balzac.

Then came the delightful process of painstakingly preparing each artwork for print and uploading the images, writing descriptions that would do the artwork justice, and optimistically navigating the labyrinth of keywords without accidentally inventing new words in the process.

Oh, and shipping is FREE

High-quality hand-drawn art prints by Ian David Marsden from Modicum Editions, showcased in a stylish café setting, highlighting the vibrant colors and detailed illustrations.”

But slowly, piece by piece—between sketching new ideas and occasionally rescuing that same cat from the same lemon tree—it all came together.

And so, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of Modicum Editions—my official Etsy shop where you can find exclusive, high-quality prints of my hand-drawn illustrations and buy hand-drawn illustration prints online. From vintage travel posters inspired by my beautiful surroundings in Southern France to satirical political cartoons and thought-provoking contemporary art, this collection has something for everyone. No AI, no mass production—just authentic, hand-drawn art printed with Gelato’s premium eco-friendly inks and papers, delivered with care.

Hand-drawn illustrations by Ian David Marsden, featured in contemporary interior decor, illustrating the artistic versatility of Modicum Editions’ exclusive art prints.

To celebrate the grand opening, everything is 15% off for one week only—the perfect opportunity to grab a piece that speaks to you.

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25th Euro-kartoenale Kruishoutem

Hats Off! Ian David Marsden cartoon submissions to the 25th Euro-kartoenale Kruishoutem

As a cartoonist, there’s something magical about taking a theme and letting it evolve into visual storytelling. For the 25th Euro-kartoenale Kruishoutem, this year’s theme—“The Hat – Hats Off”—offered endless opportunities to blend humor, satire, and creativity.

I’m thrilled to be one of the 16 participating cartoonists from France, contributing five original cartoons to this international cartoon competition. Each of my works explores hats not just as accessories, but as powerful symbols of culture, evolution, and individuality.

Exploring the Evolution of Hats Through Cartoons

From ancient alien theories to playful nods at fairy tales, my cartoons for this year’s Euro-kartoenale cover a wide range of interpretations:

• “Crown Wars” – Two kings engage in a comical power struggle, measuring their wealth and influence with ever-expanding crowns that defy logic (and balance).

Cartoon of two regal figures with oversized, ornate crowns, highlighting themes of greed and one-upmanship, created by Ian David Marsden for the European Cartoon Center.
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Ian David Marsden Joins Cartoon Movement

Ian David Marsden’s Cartoon Movement profile with 24 editorial cartoons, 36 likes, and 6 comments, showcasing his work as a cartoonist and illustrator.

I am delighted to share some exciting news: I have joined the incredibly talented international community of cartoonists at Cartoon Movement. As a platform dedicated to showcasing editorial cartoons from around the world, Cartoon Movement connects artists with a global audience, offering fresh, insightful, and sometimes bitingly satirical takes on current events.

Cartoon Movement logo, a platform for global editorial cartoons and professional cartoonists.”

For those unfamiliar, Cartoon Movement is an independent platform that brings together professional cartoonists from across the globe. Founded with the goal of promoting press freedom and political commentary through cartoons, it provides a space where artists can share their work and engage with an international readership. The platform regularly features political and editorial cartoons tackling world affairs, culture, and social issues, offering a diverse array of perspectives through visual storytelling.

Ian David Marsden’s gallery on Cartoon Movement, showcasing over 20 editorial cartoons on political satire, cultural commentary, and humor.

Through this collaboration, my Ian David Marsden editorial cartoons will now have the opportunity to reach a much wider audience—perhaps finding themselves being scrutinized, debated, and misunderstood in multiple languages before ultimately being used as placemats under coffee cups. I’ll be regularly adding new work to my page, and you can find my latest contributions here:

My Cartoon Movement Page

https://www.cartoonmovement.com/cartoonist/34891

For those who enjoy a good editorial cartoon—whether it’s an incisive take on current politics, a visual commentary on society, or just an artistic way of saying “Well, isn’t this just a fine mess we are finding ourselves in again?”—I hope you’ll follow along.

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Comic Strips Sustainable Energy

Meet Fox, a curious and enthusiastic cartoon character eager to embrace a more ecological, energy-efficient lifestyle. Alongside him is Major Domo, a resourceful and witty little robot who offers insightful tips to save energy, reduce costs, and protect the environment. Created for my France based Client: Sustain-D. Together, they navigate various everyday scenarios, showing how small changes can lead to big improvements in sustainability.

A practical comic showing a fox and robot discussing utility bills and energy efficiency, featuring a colorful efficiency scale and meter reading. Bandes dessinées by Ian David Marsden, based in Montpellier, France.
Fox and robot discussing a breakdown of energy costs in a comic strip created by Ian David Marsden
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Illustrated Workflow for Graph Database Modeling

Custom Explainer Video by Ian David Marsden

lient presenting project needs to the architect, discussing graph database requirements and strategies.

When Tom Geudens from Elephant Bird Consulting entrusted me with creating an illustrated workflow explainer video for graph database modeling, I aimed to deliver a clear, engaging, and visually appealing presentation. This project followed the development process step-by-step, showcasing how the architect, database administrator, and developers collaborate to build a successful graph database.

Tom, one of the foremost experts in the field of graph databases, illustrates the collaborative process of graph database development. From the initial client briefing to the architect’s strategic planning, through the database administrator’s management of technical workflows, and finally to the developers bringing the project to life, the video uses custom illustrations and animations to tell the story. Each character was designed to embody their specific role, creating a clear and engaging narrative. As a regular client of mine, Tom entrusted me to visually communicate the intricacies of this process, showcasing his deep expertise and the teamwork required to build successful graph databases. This video not only simplifies complex concepts but also highlights Tom’s leadership in the field.

rchitect character thinking about graph database structure with floating 3D shapes.

Using my expertise in illustrating and animating custom explainer videos, I designed vibrant character illustrations and graphic elements that simplify the workflow while maintaining audience engagement. These animations connect technical concepts to relatable visuals, making the information accessible for viewers of all backgrounds.

Architect character visualizing puzzle assembly for graph database modeling.
The architect handing over an intricately assembled cube to the database administrator, symbolizing the completed graph database structure.

Whether you need an illustrated workflow, a custom explainer video, or engaging visuals for marketing, training, or product demonstrations, I can create tailored solutions that connect with your audience, simplify complex ideas, and elevate your brand’s presence.

Database administrator at her desk analyzing a stacked cube diagram on multiple monitors.
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Découvrez le jeu PILLAGE autour du Pic

Découvrez PILLAGE autour du Pic : Une Aventure Unique au Cœur du Pic Saint-Loup

Illustration de la boîte de Pillage autour du Pic, conçue par Ian David Marsden, avec des personnages hauts en couleur et un trésor au centre.

Disponible maintenant dans la boutique L’Esprit du Pic, Place de l’Hermet à 34270 Claret

Cartes de Personnage de Pillage autour du Pic

Plongez dans cette quête épique avec PILLAGE autour du Pic. Ce jeu de société captivant, où stratégie et observation se mêlent à l’exploration, vous invite à incarner des aventuriers prêts à affronter mille dangers et énigmes pour découvrir des richesses oubliées.

Plateau central de Pillage autour du Pic illustré par Ian David Marsden, avec des détails inspirés des paysages du Pic Saint-Loup.

L’univers visuel de PILLAGE autour du Pic est sublimé par Ian David Marsden, un illustrateur et graphiste de renommée internationale, installé à 34270 Claret. Ses illustrations vibrantes donnent vie aux personnages et aux paysages, transportant les joueurs dans un monde coloré et immersif. Avec un style unique alliant précision et créativité, Ian a su capturer l’essence du Pic Saint-Loup, créant une esthétique aussi captivante que le gameplay lui-même. Ses contributions artistiques apportent une dimension visuelle exceptionnelle au jeu, transformant chaque partie en une véritable expérience sensorielle.

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Welcome to Marsden’s Art House: A Creative Space for Artists and Dreamers

Step Inside Marsden’s Art House: A New YouTube Space for Artists

Where Creativity Lives!

Every great work of art begins with a single line. And every artist needs a space to explore, experiment, and grow. That’s why I’m excited to invite you to Marsden’s Art House, my brand-new YouTube channel—your creative studio away from home.

Procreate Beginner Level - brushes and coloring | Marsden's Art House 🍎

Here, you’ll find:

• Thoughtfully crafted step-by-step tutorials on sketching, inking, and digital art that break complex techniques into approachable methods.

Behind-the-scenes insights into how I structure my graphic novels, from storyboarding in Clip Studio Paint to polishing pages in Photoshop and Illustrator.

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Zwei Buchstaben – eine etwas andere Weihnachtsgeschichte

Die Weihnachtszeit ist da – und ich freue mich, Ihnen ein besonderes Projekt vorzustellen, das ich für meinen langjährigen Freund und kreativen Kollegen Helmi Sigg illustrieren 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.

Promotionsbild auf helmisigg.ch: Buchcover von “Zwei Buchstaben” illustriert von Schweizer Illustrator Ian David Marsden.

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.

Buchcover von “Zwei Buchstaben” mit Weihnachtsmann und Teufelshörnern, illustriert von Schweizer Illustrator Ian David Marsden.
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Helmi Sigg Cartoon Portrait

Helmi Sigg: A Swiss Media Legend Through the Eyes of cartoonist Ian David Marsden

Helmi Sigg is an old personal friend of mine.

He stands as a true icon in Swiss media, with an illustrious career that bridges comedy, theater, literature, and radio. From his pioneering contributions at Radio 24, Switzerland’s first private radio station, to his unforgettable stage performances, Sigg’s influence has shaped Swiss cultural history.

Timelapse Drawing Cartoon Portrait of Helmi Sigg – Swiss Comedian & Author
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Affiches illustrés BD touristiques Pic Saint Loup par Ian Marsden, Illustrateur Freelance

Delightful animal-themed illustrations by Ian David Marsden for French storytelling, featuring characters in colorful settings like vineyards and scenic drives around the Pic Saint Loup

Illustrateur et dessinateur installé près du Pic Saint Loup

Je suis illustrateur et dessinateur freelance basé à Claret (34270), un village viticole proche de Montpellier, dans la région du Pic Saint Loup. Depuis près de 20 ans, je m’inspire des paysages et de la vie quotidienne de cette région qui m’a profondément marqué. À travers mes illustrations, je cherche à capturer la convivialité et le charme unique de cet endroit que je suis heureux de pouvoir appeler chez moi.

Mon approche artistique

Originaire de Los Angeles, j’ai découvert ici un rythme de vie différent, empreint de chaleur humaine et de simplicité. Mon travail, mêlant dessins faits à la main et aquarelle, s’adapte à une grande variété de projets : de l’illustration éditoriale à la publicité, en passant par les bandes dessinées et les livres pour enfants.

Quelques créations autour du Pic Saint Loup

Loup et ses amis dans une Méhari orange roulant près du Pic St-Loup, illustration originale par Ian Marsden, graphiste et illustrateur à Claret, 34270

“La vie en rose” : Deux amoureux en Vespa se dirigent vers un pique-nique romantique avec, bien sûr, un rosé local dans leur panier.

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Creating the Artwork for the Mercedes-Benz Employee Manual

Today, I want to take you on a journey that holds a special place in my heart—the creation of the illustrated Mercedes-Benz Employee Manual, affectionately known as the “Mitarbeiterknigge”. *

Back in 2010, as an experienced illustrator, character designer and concept creator, I had the pleasure of collaborating with esteemed advertising agency Sieber & Wolf on this fascinating project. Join me as I walk you through the process of bringing this comprehensive manual to life, highlighting the importance of effective visual communication within the context of a luxury brand like Mercedes-Benz.

When Sieber & Wolf approached me with the opportunity to work on the “Mitarbeiterknigge”, I knew it was a project that demanded precision, creativity, and dedication to excellence. The manual aimed to train Mercedes-Benz staff who interacted with customers, covering topics such as maintaining contact, politeness, and proper behavior in various situations like vehicle purchase, repairs, sales, events, lunches, dinners, and business correspondence. It was crucial that the illustrations reflected Mercedes-Benz’s high standards, precision, and commitment to quality.

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Je Parle Anglais. Je Suis Français. Je Peux Aider

Rendez Paris Encore Plus Accueillant: Soutenez les Touristes Anglophones Pendant les Jeux Olympiques !

Bonjour chers amis parisiens ! Alors que Paris se prépare à accueillir les Jeux Olympiques, voici une initiative joyeuse pour aider les visiteurs à se sentir chez eux. Pas seulement à Paris, et pas seulement pendant les Jeux Olympiques de 2024. Cette initiative s’adresse aussi à toutes les villes et villages français, même après les Jeux Olympiques.

I am French. I speak English. I can help.
“Je Parle Anglais. Je Suis Français. Je Peux Aider”


Cette campagne “Je Parle Anglais. Je Suis Français. Je Peux Aider”, une idée originale d’Anne Weber, fondatrice du cabinet IN TALENT WE TRUST et de Facteur Humain Le Blog, ( www.anneweber.org ) , est parfaite pour les Jeux Olympiques, mais peut aussi être utilisée dans n’importe quelle ville ou village français, à tout moment, si vous souhaitez être ouverts et accueillants envers les visiteurs anglophones.

Pour vous associer, un superbe visuel illustré vectoriel, créé par le dessinateur et illustrateur Ian David Marsden, est mis à disposition. Parfait pour imprimer des badges, des t-shirts, des autocollants ou pour décorer vos vitrines, ce visuel vous permettra de montrer fièrement que vous parlez anglais et êtes prêt à aider. En affichant ce badge, vous faites savoir aux touristes qu’ils peuvent compter sur vous pour rendre leur séjour plus agréable et sans souci. Ce visuel est libre de droits et peut être utilisé gratuitement, à condition de respecter les spécificités indiquées dans l’avertissement légal ci-dessous.*

[Téléchargez le Visuel Illustré Vectoriel Ici]

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Quand l’Illustration, la Charité et Montpellier se réunissent

Quand l’Illustration, la Charité et Montpellier se réunissent

I love Montpelier - Dessin par illustrateur Ian David Marsden

Je suis ravi de partager un récent événement où l’illustration, la charité et la magnifique région de Montpellier se sont rencontrés. Mon parcours créatif en tant qu’illustrateur freelance expérimenté, dessinateur de presse, et auteur de bandes dessinées a pris racine a Vacquières dans la pittoresque région du Pic Saint Loup, non loin de la belle ville de Montpellier. Montpellier est non seulement le siège de la French Tech, mais aussi un pôle d’attraction pour les créatifs, les programmeurs et les experts en technologie cherchant à lancer les start-ups de demain, tout comme les futurs Googles et Apples.

Pendant les 18 dernières années, j’ai eu le plaisir de collaborer avec des clients non seulement en France, mais aussi dans toute l’Europe et aux États-Unis.

J’ai été approché par Arnaud Ellul, le président du Club Alliance Pro (Hérault 34), affectueusement connu sous le nom de CAP34, un “Club Business” et un collectif d’entrepreneurs dévoués de la région de Montpellier-Hérault. Arnaud a demandé si je serais intéressé à contribuer une œuvre d’art pour une vente aux enchères silencieuse lors d’un Gala organisé au Pasino de Maugio le 23 novembre 2023. Cet événement s’est démarqué car il présentait une vente aux enchères remarquable, mettant en avant divers objets et œuvres d’art offerts par des artistes locaux talentueux. Ce qui a distingué cette vente aux enchères, c’est sa noble cause : tous les bénéfices étaient dédiés aux Restos du Cœur.

Fondés par Coluche en 1985, Les Restos du Cœur, association reconnue d’utilité publique, « ont pour but d’aider et d’apporter une assistance bénévole aux personnes démunies, notamment dans le domaine alimentaire par l’accès à des repas gratuits, et par la participation à leur insertion sociale et économique, ainsi qu’à toute action contre la pauvreté sous toutes ses formes.

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Transparent Flat Rates for Custom Illustration and Animation

Affordable, flexible pricing for creative services. Ian Marsden, freelance Illustration, animation, and explainer videos to fit your budget. High-quality, transparent solutions.

Free First Consultation

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:

Association of Illustrators (AOI)

Industry guidance for illustrators in the UK and Europe.

Graphic Artists Guild Handbook

Comprehensive ethical and pricing standards for the US market.

Illustratoren Organisation e.V.

Pricing guidelines and usage rights for Germany.

Maison des Artistes

Freelance rights and pricing insights for professionals in France.

ProLitteris

Copyright and pricing management for visual creators in Switzerland.

Freelancers Union

Hourly and project-based pricing for freelance professionals in the US.

ManyPixels Blog

Global insights on pricing trends for designers and illustrators.

Motionographer

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.

Services Available for All Project Scopes

Advertising & Business Illustration

Editorial & Magazine Illustrations

Cartoons & Comic Art

Animated Explainer Videos

Children’s Book Illustrations

Packaging & Product Design

Download My Professional Credentials:

CV PDF

Portfolio PDF

Contact Information

Email: contact@marsdenillustration.com

Phone: +33 (0) 6 42 49 82 11 (Central European Time / France)

LinkedIn: Ian David Marsden

Explore My Work by Category

Sketchbook | Advertising & Business | Videos & Animation | Editorial Illustration | Logo & Character Design | Cartoons & Comics | Packaging Design | Google Doodles | Children’s Book Illustration | Ritzenhoff | Wacom Featured Artist | Latoya Jackson Designs

affordable illustrator, experienced cartoonist, custom illustration pricing, freelance artist rates, transparent flat rates, professional illustrator, illustrator europe, illustrateur expérimenté, tarifs illustrateur, graphiste freelance, illustrateur france, illustrateur suisse, zeichner deutschland, günstiger illustrator, karikaturist preise, erklärvideo preise, affordable animation services, illustrator portfolio, freelance cartoonist europe, professional character design

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