Illustration

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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Illustrated Workflow of Graph Database Modeling – Explainer Video

In this illustrated explainer video, I was tasked by the client to follow the steps of graph database development from the architect to the database admin to the developers. 

With appealing illustrations that unfold before your eyes, this explainer video showcases the step-by-step process of how each team member contributes and collaborates to create a successful graph database. The animations and illustrations by created by me (artist Ian David Marsden) effectively communicate intricate procedures by utilizing character designs that personify different professions, along with vibrant graphic symbols. This approach results in a clear and visually appealing presentation.

Illustrated Software Development Workflow Explainer Video - Custom Animation by Ian David Marsden

Custom illustrations and animations by artist Ian David Marsden.

 Contact Ian for a free consultation to discuss your project.
ian@marsdenillustration.com

 #illustration #explainervideo #softwaredevelopment #teamcollaboration #databaseadministration #businessillustration #customillustrations #startups #advertising #marketing #illustrator #illustration #cartoonist #graphdatabase

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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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Merry Christmas – I sing the Grinch song.

As 2023 draws to a close, I reflect on a year filled with creativity, collaboration, and, most importantly, your continued support.

Enclosed is this year’s Christmas card from me to you.

🎅 Illustrated Holiday Cartoon Card with Santa and the Grinch by Ian David Marsden 🍷

This year, our jolly friend Santa is enjoying a glass of exquisite Pic Saint-Loup red wine I left out for him – a refined alternative to milk and cookies and a tribute to the beautiful Languedoc region where my studio and home are located. The Grinch just couldn’t resist and grabbed a bottle too.

I even sang a little serenade on the video Holiday Greeting Card, the classic: “You’re a mean one, Mister Grinch”.

(Don’t worry, I won’t be quitting my day job – singing is just a hobby.)

Click HERE to view the full-size (and animated) version of the card on YouTube.

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Concept Drawings: Volkswagen Sedric

Creating Concept Drawings for the Volkswagen Sedric Concept Car Presentation at CEBIT 2018 *

As an illustrator, I encounter various projects, each offering distinct challenges and creative opportunities. One particular project that holds a significant place among my favortes is the creation of concept drawings for the Volkswagen Sedric Concept Car presentation at CEBIT 2018. These drawings aimed to convey a compelling narrative, capturing the essence of this innovative concept car in a visually engaging manner. Familiar with the unpredictable nature of creative projects, I embraced the challenge when the assignment came on short notice. Time constraints were no obstacle for me, as I thrive in such situations, drawing upon experience and adaptability to deliver results swiftly and effectively.

The Volkswagen Sedric self-driving concept car is a pioneering innovation in the automotive world, representing a glimpse into the future of mobility. Designed with a focus on autonomous driving technology, the Sedric Concept Car aims to redefine the way we perceive transportation. This revolutionary vehicle embodies Volkswagen’s commitment to innovation, sustainable transportation, and cutting-edge design. With its sleek, futuristic appearance and state-of-the-art autonomous capabilities, the Sedric Concept Car is not just an automobile; it’s a visionary step towards a new era of transportation that prioritizes safety, convenience, and environmental sustainability.

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Künzli Optik’s Optical Illusion

Advertising Illustration for Künzli Optik Switzerland

In the world of advertising illustration, let’s explore a captivating scenario where eyeglasses have the remarkable ability to transform everyday people into potential celebrities. This imaginative concept found its way to my drawing board, thanks to Creative Director Daniel Matter from the respected advertising agency Matter & Gretener.

I’m Ian David Marsden, an experienced illustrator passionate about visual storytelling. I had the privilege of bringing this compelling idea to life. The task was clear: create minimalist illustrations that delicately balanced intrigue and recognition. The goal was simple – to make you ponder, “Could that be…?”

The outcome? Four remarkable posters and ads that captivated audiences and sparked conversations. Thoughtfully placed in prominent publications, on trams, in public transport, and along roadside billboards, these posters themselves became optical illusions. With a subtle touch, they left you wondering, “Hey, isn’t that a familiar face?”

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Concept Art for Lindt Chocolate

In this gallery I would like to show some concept illustrations created in 2015 for Lindt Chocolate.

Lindt Gold Bunny / Goldhase
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AN2V Kakemonos / Commercial Banner Illustration

I am frequently consulted by my clients to assist with marketing and advertising projects, with concepts and ideas, layouts and graphic design suggestions as well as of course drawings and illustration elements.

AN2V, the Association Nationale de la Vidéoprotection approached me for a very interesting project. Founded in 2004 by Dominique LEGRAND, this remarkable association was established to address the growing need for the exchange of experiences in the field of security technology. At the time, video surveillance, which we now call videoprotection, lacked structure, and many users were grappling with the challenges of deployment.

What sets AN2V apart is its unique combination of “demand” from both public and private users, along with companies offering products and services in the realm of security technologies. AN2V is truly one of a kind, and I was privileged to collaborate with them.

AN2V presented me with an exciting challenge – to create three distinctive, large-scale Kakémono display banners, each measuring 2.10 meters by 0.85 meters. These banners were designed to represent three key facets of AN2V’s activities: training, the association itself, and the universities they organize.

Two of the AN2V Kakemono banners on display at a tradeshow
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Cartoon Portrait Commissions from Photographs

Welcome to my homepage.

I’m Ian David Marsden, an internationally experienced illustrator and cartoonist. I also provide an additional service. I create custom, commissioned cartoon portraits from photographs for all kinds of uses. Social Media cartoon avatars, wedding or anniversary gifts as framed artwork, company or sports teams, vanity projects such as custom stationery or stickers, even artwork which is then transformed into actual tattoos. High resolution digital files are provided to you which allow you to produce items from cups, t-shirts, magnets, stamps, letterhead, stickers. Want to advertise your business with a fun portrait of yourself or your team? Suprise a loved one with a cartoon featuring a memorable (or embarassing) milestone from your lives? Digital files or actual hand drawn, inked and colored original artwork on high quality watercolor paper as a super exclusive and elegant present.

Let’s not forget birthday cards, company, team or family Christmas or Holiday cards with custom seasons-related illustrations. Graduations, Awards, Invitations, Parties, Special Events…

Crafting Your Unique Tale

What sets these portraits apart is the level of customization they offer. It’s about capturing the essence of individuals, the soul of a band, or the heart of a family. For instance, a blues band desired to have each band member’s distinctive head portrayed with their instruments, all of them cruising in a classic VW van. Families often want their pets to be part of the picture, their house in the background, enterprises might want their company logo lovingly hand-drawn on the holiday card featuring their team portrait. When I say customization, I mean anything is possible—it’s your story, after all.

Caricature, Cartoon of the Band Take the 55, illustration
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Marsden Illustration