GRAPHIC NOVEL

MARVIN
BASED ON
"THE WAY I WAS"

Marvin tells the extraordinary story of composer Marvin Hamlisch, adapted and illustrated by Ian David Marsden from The Way I Was. Born to parents who escaped Nazi-occupied Austria, Marvin was accepted into the Juilliard School at just six years old. Behind his talent was a boy who struggled with stage fright and self-doubt—but who never gave up. By his teens, he had his first radio hit, wrote songs for a young Liza Minnelli, and soon collaborated with Barbra Streisand on Funny Girl. Marvin went on to become only the second person ever to earn the rare PEGOT (Pulitzer, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony), leaving a legacy of unforgettable music.Published by Schiffer Kids (2020).

CHILDREN'S BOOK

NO WAY!
A SCAREDY CAT
ADVENTURE

Every time his friends suggest an outing — to a museum, a trail, or even a picnic — Scaredy Cat imagines the worst…

A humorous look at worry, creativity, and cautious courage. Coming 2025

Written & Illustrated by Ian David Marsden

NONFICTION

WILKOMMEN
IM
KOLLEGENZOO

25 animal-based coworker archetypes brought to life through expressive design. A visual satire of modern office dynamics. Published by Droemer Knaur | Knaur Verlag (2009)

Character designs and illustration Ian David Marsden
Written by Markus Steinhaus

CHILDREN'S BOOK

THE
SECRET
EGG

A rhyming storybook for early readers about a colorful egg found on a bus— featuring a gentle poetic rhythm and a friendly baby dragon, designed to support reading clarity and flow.

Ransom Reading Stars
Published by Ransom Publishing (2015)

llustrated by Ian David Marsden
Written by John Townsend.

GRAPHIC ANTHOLOGY

THE
FOOTBALL HERO
SERIES

Football Heroes Series (2006, 2008, 2012)
I was one of the only illustrators invited to participate in all three Football Heroes editions — large-format collectible books celebrating international football through portrait illustration and caricature.

Featuring over 700 illustrations by top artists from across Europe, the series includes national teams from the World Cup, UEFA Euro finals, and historic squads. Published by Herzglut Verlag, these books remain landmark projects in sports illustration and design.

CARTOON COLLECTION

ZÜRICH
MY LITTLE
TOWN

At 16, after submitting cartoons since I was 14 (or younger), they finally gave up and bought some — and I became the youngest cartoonist ever published in Nebelspalter. A few years later, the iconic Swiss satire magazine invited me to create my first book: a collection of cartoons capturing the quirks and character of the town I grew up in. Both observational and personal, it blends humor, civic life, Swiss quirks, and illustrated storytelling from the inside out.

Zürich, my little town By Ian David Marsden
Nebelspalter Verlag (1988)

CHILDREN'S BOOK

THE
USELESS
THING

A curious, retro-style picture book in the spirit of Edward Gorey and Shel Silverstein. When a strange, useless thing falls out of a tree, it seems to have no purpose at all — until a family takes it in and shows that love doesn’t require explanation.

A gently absurd story about belonging, kindness, and quiet meaning.

Written & Illustrated by Ian David Marsden · 2014

Illustration for Books and
Narrative Projects

This section showcases my illustration work for books, graphic novels and narrative projects, including children’s books, educational titles, nonfiction, comics and anthology contributions. Book illustration has been a consistent thread through my career, and I enjoy adapting my visual approach to suit each project’s tone, audience and format.

I’ve illustrated books published in Switzerland, Germany, the UK and the United States, working with authors, editors and publishers to support storytelling through pacing, character expression, dialogue flow and visual rhythm. Whether developing my own stories or illustrating manuscripts by others, I focus on narrative clarity, emotional nuance and the interplay between text and image.
Humor, empathy and a strong sense of timing guide my approach to visual storytelling — always leaving room for the pictures to speak and for readers to discover moments on their own.
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Services

Books illustrated by Ian

GRAPHIC NOVEL

Marvin: Based on
“The Way I Was”

Biography in graphic format, for readers ages 5–14

Published by Schiffer Kids (2020), Marvin: Based on The Way I Was adapted and illustrated by Ian David Marsden is my first full-length graphic novel as both writer and illustrator. It adapts the story of composer Marvin Hamlisch, tracing his family’s escape from Nazi-occupied Austria, his early struggles with stage anxiety, and his rise to PEGOT-winning fame. The book balances factual biography with accessible pacing and character-centered panels. More Comics

CHILDREN’S BOOK

The Secret Egg

Rhyming storybook for developing readers

Written by John Townsend and published by Ransom Publishing (2019), The Secret Egg is part of the Reading Stars series for readers aged 7–8. The story follows a gentle poetic rhythm, paired with clear, linear illustrations created in Adobe Illustrator. The baby dragon design was central to the book — expressive, friendly, and optimized for early reading clarity and visual flow.

NONFICTION

Willkommen im Kollegenzoo

Illustrated workplace archetypes in animal form

Written by Markus Steinhaus and published by Droemer Knaur (2009), this book explores the social ecosystem of the modern office through 25 detailed coworker profiles — each matched with a metaphorical animal. I created the character designs for all listed archetypes, visualizing behaviors like territoriality, teamwork, or avoidance in a clean, illustrative style that supports the text’s observational tone. It’s a book for anyone who’s ever wondered if their colleague is more “Ablagemaus” or “Vorzimmerdrache.”

GRAPHIC ANTHOLOGY

Football Heroes

(Herzglut Verlag, 2006)
Over 700 portraits illustrated by 50 artists from around the world. A tribute to 60 football national teams, including every participant in the 2006 World Cup, past champions, and iconic squads from tournament history. I was one of the contributing illustrators for this ambitious collectible album — a blend of design, caricature, and football culture. Football Heroes.

GRAPHIC ANTHOLOGY

Football Heroes See Red!

(Herzglut Verlag, 2008)
This follow-up volume brought together 38 international illustrators to depict 50 teams — including all 16 squads in the 2008 UEFA Euro finals, plus historical finalists and standout qualifiers. I was honored to be invited again, making me one of very few artists to contribute to all three Football Heroes books. Fussballhelden sehen Rot.

GRAPHIC ANTHOLOGY

Football Heroes Gold

(Herzglut Verlag, 2012)
Inspired by the ornate collectible albums of the 1920s and 30s, this edition features portraits of all 368 players and 16 coaches from the Euro 2012 finals, plus legendary figures from each participating country. With over 400 illustrations across its pages, this book stands as a visual celebration of European football history — and marked my third contribution to the series. Footballheroes Gold.

GRAPHIC ANTHOLOGY / CARTOON COLLECTION

Zürich, my little town

Cartoon book debut & first published collection
(Nebelspalter Verlag, 1988)

Zürich, my little town is my first book — an 80-page cartoon anthology that collects humorous observations of my hometown, Zürich. Originally drawn during my early years as a contributor to Nebelspalter, Switzerland’s historic satire magazine, these drawings offer a local’s-eye view of urban rituals, political quirks, and bureaucratic absurdities.

The book includes a foreword by Zürich’s then Verkehrsdirektor, Erich Gerber, and showcases a formative period in my cartooning career — combining observational satire with lived experience. Printed in German and produced in Switzerland.

Product details:
ISBN-10: 3-85819-124-8 · ISBN-13: 978-3-85819-124-3
Language: German · Format: Softcover · Pages: 80
Publisher: Nebelspalter-Verlag, Rorschach · Year: 1988

Book Illustration & Visual Storytelling | Ian David Marsden

Illustrated covers for Football Heroes See Red and Gold featuring bold football graphics and team portraits

Football Heroes Book Covers

Illustrated covers from Football Heroes: See Red and Football Heroes: Gold, two international anthologies featuring Ian David Marsden’s sports illustrations.

Player portraits from Football Heroes series by Ian David Marsden, featuring caricatured international footballers

Football Heroes Character Cards

Sample portraits from the Football Heroes collectible book series — stylized depictions of players across international teams and eras by cartoonist and illustrator Ian David Marsden.

Book cover for The Secret Egg showing baby dragon and egg, illustrated by Ian David Marsden

The Secret Egg – Book Cover

Cover illustration for The Secret Egg, a rhyming children’s book about a magical dragon — published by Ransom Publishing and illustrated by Ian David Marsden.

Pages from The Secret Egg with cat and dragon characters by Ian David Marsden

The Secret Egg – Character Pages

Inside spreads from The Secret Egg, showing expressive cat and dragon characters — illustrated in clean vector style for early readers.

Animal metaphors for office personalities: Ablagemaus, Abteilungshai, Aktenwurm from Kollegenzoo

Kollegenzoo – Ablagemaus, Abteilungshai, Aktenwurm

Character designs for Willkommen im Kollegenzoo, showing workplace archetypes in animal form — illustrated by Ian David Marsden for Droemer Knaur.

Front cover of Kollegenzoo featuring lion character and office animals, by Ian David Marsden

Kollegenzoo Book Cover – Illustrated by Ian David Marsden

Cover of Willkommen im Kollegenzoo, a satirical workplace book featuring animal metaphors for office personalities — illustrated by Ian David Marsden for Droemer Knaur.

Inside foldout from Kollegenzoo showing full set of animal character metaphors by Ian David Marsden

Kollegenzoo – Foldout with Character Designs

Interior foldout spread from Kollegenzoo, showing all 26 illustrated animal archetypes — visualizing modern office behavior through character design.

Grid view of all Kollegenzoo animal characters representing office behaviors illustrated by Ian David Marsden.

Kollegenzoo – All Characters Overview

Overview grid of all 26 characters from Kollegenzoo — a humorous book about office types illustrated through animals by Ian David Marsden.

Animal metaphors for quiet employees from Kollegenzoo — including hermit crab and desk pinscher

Schreibtischpinscher, Siebenschläfer, Einsiedlerkrebs Kollegenzoo – Quiet Archetypes

Characters from Kollegenzoo representing introverted or passive workplace types: Schreibtischpinscher, Siebenschläfer, and Einsiedlerkrebs.

Kollegenzoo characters symbolizing criticism, empty authority, and status defense in office culture

Kollegenzoo – Critical & Territorial Types Meckerziege, Papiertiger, Platzhirsch,

Characters from Kollegenzoo that reflect assertive or territorial workplace behavior: Meckerziege (complainer goat), Papiertiger (paper tiger), Platzhirsch (alpha deer).

Kollegenzoo office characters including vanity-driven and stress-affected employees

Kollegenzoo – Vanity & Stress Archetypes Firmenpfau, Frustnashorn, Gottesanbeterin,

Archetypes from Kollegenzoo exploring ego, frustration, and overwork: Firmenpfau (company peacock), Frustnashorn (frustrated rhino), Gottesanbeterin (praying mantis).

Kollegenzoo workplace animals showing aggression, disorder, and toxic behaviors

Kollegenzoo – Aggressive Office Archetypes Kampfstier, Kollegenhyäne, Ferkel

Three bold, confrontational character types from Kollegenzoo: Kampfstier (fighting bull), Kollegenhyäne (colleague hyena), Ferkel (messy piglet).

Kollegenzoo animals representing bureaucracy and internal office roles

Kollegenzoo – Filing, Department, Paperwork Ablagemaus, Abteilungshai, Aktenwurm.

Classic desk-based characters from Kollegenzoo: Ablagemaus (filing mouse), Abteilungshai (department shark), Aktenwurm (paperwork worm).

Kollegenzoo – Busy & Loud Office Types Arbeitsbiene, Brüllaffe, Bückling,

Classic desk-based characters from Kollegenzoo: Ablagemaus (filing mouse), Abteilungshai (department shark), Aktenwurm (paperwork worm).

Ruhefant character from Kollegenzoo representing quiet stubbornness and passive resistance in office life

Kollegenzoo – Ruhefant

A calm and passive office character from Kollegenzoo: the Ruhefant — a blend of “ruhen” (to rest) and “Elefant.” Symbol of inertia and quiet resistance in the workplace.

Kollegenzoo in online bookshop

Kollegenzoo Book displayed in an online book shop.

Cover of Marvin graphic novel by Ian David Marsden, depicting composer Marvin Hamlisch in conversation

Cover: Marvin graphic novel by Ian David Marsden

Cover illustration for Marvin, a graphic novel by Ian David Marsden based on The Way I Was by Marvin Hamlisch — published by Schiffer Publishing.

Comic pages from graphic novel Marvin by Ian David Marsden featuring musical scenes and character storytelling

Marvin – Hopalong Cassidy & New York Street Scene

Sample interior pages from Marvin showing Ian David Marsden’s hand-drawn visual storytelling — combining humor, emotion, and musical narrative.

Comic panel showing young Marvin Hamlisch playing stickball in New York from Marvin graphic novel by Ian David Marsden

Hopalong cassidy and stickball in the streets of new york, young marvin hamlisch

Comic panel from Marvin showing young Marvin Hamlisch playing stickball and watching TV in New York — a nostalgic look at his early years.

Award-winning graphic novel by Ian David Marsden, featuring Purple Dragonfly Book Award badge

Marvin – Award-Winning Cover

Marvin won First Place in the 2020 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards (Graphic Novel Category) — written and illustrated by Ian David Marsden.

Comic page set from Marvin by Ian David Marsden showing music practice and personal anecdotes

Marvin – Three Comic Pages

Three sample pages from Marvin, illustrating the balance of music lessons, exams, and family life in Ian David Marsden’s sequential style.

Comic scene from Marvin graphic novel showing Marvin and his father at Grant’s tomb

Marvin: Based on “The Way I Was” – Tomb of Grant Scene

A reflective moment from Marvin: Based on “The Way I Was”, as Marvin visits the tomb of Ulysses S. Grant with his father — from Ian David Marsden’s graphic novel.

Comic strip from Marvin showing family escaping Austria, with Nazi officer inspecting luggage

Marvin: Based on “The Way I Was” – Escape from Austria

Flashback sequence from Marvin depicting the Hamlisch family’s escape from Nazi-occupied Austria — illustrated with care and narrative sensitivity by Ian David Marsden.

Comic scene from Marvin showing character facing songwriting conflict and emotional exhaustion and a Rabbi's call.

Marvin: Based on “The Way I Was” – Songwriting Reflection

A scene of artistic frustration from Marvin, where creative disputes lead to a moment of self-doubt and reflection — illustrating the challenges behind songwriting success.

Cover of Zürich, My Little Town cartoon book by Ian David Marsden with montage of hand-drawn characters

Zürich, My Little Town – Cover

Cover of Ian David Marsden’s debut cartoon collection Zürich, My Little Town, originally published by Nebelspalter Verlag in 1988 — a humorous visual ode to Zurich the town he grew up in.

Text excerpt of foreword from Zürich, My Little Town written by Zürich Verkehrsdirektor Erich Gerber

Vorwort – Verkehrsdirektor Erich Gerber, Stadt Zürich

Foreword written by Zürich Verkehrsdirektor Erich Gerber, introducing Zürich, My Little Town with civic humor and insight into local culture.

Cartoon by Ian David Marsden of Kronenhalle café with bohemian artist character from Zürich, My Little Town

Zürich Kronenhalle – Lebenskünstler

Cartoon illustration showing a bohemian “Lebenskünstler” artist character seated at the historic Kronenhalle — satirizing Zürich café culture.

Elderly couple walking through Spitalgasse in Zürich spring scene from Ian David Marsden’s cartoon book

Frühling – Spitalgasse

An older happy gay couple strolls through Zürich’s Spitalgasse in springtime — capturing the gentle observational humor of Marsden’s early cartoon work.

Cartoon showing penguins on Bahnhofstrasse in Zürich from Zürich, My Little Town by Ian David Marsden

Pinguine – Bahnhofstrasse

A surreal moment from Zürich, My Little Town — a march of penguins parading down Bahnhofstrasse, blending fantasy with everyday city life.

Cartoon from Zürich, My Little Town showing the Böögg being burned at the Sächsilüüte parade

Sächsilüüte Parade & Böögg

Cartoon take on Zürich’s Sächsilüüte festival — featuring the symbolic burning of the Böögg snowman, an annual tradition marking the end of winter.

Zürihorn statue by Jean Tinguely, from Zürich, My Little Town by Ian David Marsden

Mechanical Art – Tinguely Tribute

Homage to Swiss sculptor Jean Tinguely — his statue at the Zürihorn, a cat hiding at the top and dogs waiting for it to start moving rendered in Marsden’s detailed pen-and-ink style.

Cartoon of ghosts or spirits rising from wine bottle, from Marsden’s Zürich, My Little Town

Weingeister – Wine Bottle Apparitions

Whimsical scene with spirits emerging from a wine bottle — a playful nod to Zürich’s hidden indulgences and local folklore.

Cartoon of teachers playing complicated chess at ETH Zurich from Zürich, My Little Town

ETH Schach – Student Life

A newly invented chessboard at the ETH Zürich — capturing campus culture through a humorous observational lens.

Book cover and spine of Zürich, My Little Town cartoon collection by Ian David Marsden

Zürich, My Little Town – Spine & Cover

A clean view of the book’s spine and cover design — showing the title Zürich, My Little Town in hand-lettered style.

Cover of No Way! children’s book by Ian David Marsden featuring Scaredy Cat in various scenes

No Way! – Book Cover with Scaredy Cat

Cover of No Way! by Ian David Marsden — a humorous and heartwarming children’s story starring a timid cat with a wild imagination.

Scaredy Cat walking through wind and rain with falling autumn leaves, from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Scaredy Cat in the Rain – Fall Scene

A brave little cat gets caught in a gusty autumn storm — one of many lighthearted challenges faced in No Way!

Collage of museum, forest, and character reactions from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Scaredy Cat’s World – Fears & Wonder

Whether in nature, at the museum, or facing the unknown, Scaredy Cat’s vivid imagination turns every scene into a dramatic adventure.

Cat stuck in the mud beside unimpressed cow and farmer, from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Stuck in the Mud – Cow & Cat Scene

Scaredy Cat finds himself knee-deep in trouble — and a bit of farmyard embarrassment — in this fun countryside moment from No Way!

Cat drawing dinosaurs, pirates, and colorful monsters at an easel, from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Scaredy Cat’s Drawing Time – Creative Play

From pirate battles to rainbow monsters — Scaredy Cat’s imagination knows no bounds when it’s art time.

Illustration of Scaredy Cat startled by bugs on a forest hike, from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Buggy Hike – Scaredy Cat Meets the Insects

On a woodland trail, Scaredy Cat stumbles into a buzzing world of bugs — from bees to beetles — in this vibrant moment of outdoor adventure.

Character design sheet showing Scaredy Cat in various expressive poses, by Ian David Marsden

Scaredy Cat in Motion – Expressive Poses

A study in exaggerated gestures and body language — this character sheet explores Scaredy Cat’s personality in multiple animated poses.

Illustrated lineup of Scaredy Cat’s animal friends from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Animal Friends – Bunny, Bear & More

A charming ensemble of Scaredy Cat’s animal friends — including Beach Bunny, Museum Bunny, Hiking Cat, and a paint-splattered Bear.

Three scenes of Scaredy Cat reacting to beach weather in funny ways, from No Way! by Ian David Marsden

Scaredy Cat’s Beach Day – Weather Trouble

Too cold? Too hot? Too sandy? Scaredy Cat’s beach day is full of mixed feelings — and exaggerated reactions.

Vector-style poster of a red café exterior with cutout-style figures waiting outside, by Ian David Marsden

Café Scene Cutout – Bold Vector Style

A stylized square vector poster showing a vibrant café front and its quirky patrons, with a strong cutout aesthetic.

Santa Claus hugging Rudolph in a snowstorm under moonlight, illustrated by Ian David Marsden

Cozy Santa & Rudolph – Winter Scene

A heartwarming holiday illustration of Santa and Rudolph sharing a quiet moment in the snow — rich in warmth and texture.

Fake vintage-style wanted poster for cartoon outlaw cats “The Stubenrein Boys,” by Ian David Marsden

“Wanted” Poster – The Stubenrein Boys

A mock Wild West “Wanted” poster featuring outlaw cats with names like “Stubenrein” — a humorous spin on classic Western tropes.

Assorted cartoon animals wearing unique hats in a positive “Just Be You” illustration by Ian David Marsden

“Just Be You” – Animal Friends in Hats

A cheerful poster reminding kids (and grownups) to be themselves — with a parade of expressive animals modeling silly, stylish hats.

Cartoon caricatures of Frida Kahlo, Van Gogh, Dalí, and Picasso walking through a colorful southern village

Artist Legends Reimagined – Frida, Van Gogh, Dalí & Picasso

A whimsical cast of legendary artists reimagined as expressive characters in a Provençal town — perfect for books introducing kids to art history with charm and wit.

Open magazine showing illustrated double-page spread of famous artists in humorous Provençal setting

Art Masters in Provence – Magazine-Style Double Page Spread

A magazine-style layout bursting with visual storytelling — Frida, Van Gogh, and friends come alive in this character-rich double spread ideal for editorial and educational storytelling.

Wimmelbild illustration of a chaotic corporate environment showing office departments, characters in meetings, presentations, and industrial mishaps

Cetacea Wimmelbild – Office Communication Illustrated

A detailed Wimmelbild (hidden object scene) exploring communication breakdowns, chaos, and collaboration in the workplace. Ideal for books, learning materials, and visual storytelling around teamwork, productivity, and organizational dynamics.

Cartoon dog confused by rejected passport photo booth image in official office setting

Passport Panic – Dog Faces Photo Booth Woes

A humorous yet relatable narrative moment — this anthropomorphic dog’s bureaucratic frustration makes for perfect material in character-driven books or educational storytelling on identity.

Figure standing at edge of cloudy landscape facing distant peaks, contemplative and solitary

The Journey Ahead – Contemplative Character Scene

A solitary figure gazes across a stark landscape — this image evokes themes of courage, future paths, and emotional metaphor, ideal for chapter intros, poetry, or conceptual narratives.

Cover of picture book “The Useless Thing” by Ian David Marsden featuring striped character

The Useless Thing – Cover Illustration by Ian David Marsden

Cover of “The Useless Thing”, an original children’s book written and illustrated by Ian David Marsden. A whimsical yet touching story about a little creature who feels out of place until it discovers that love doesn’t require explanation.

Creature snuggling into bed beside parents

Sneaking Into Bed – Seeking Comfort

From “The Useless Thing” by Ian David Marsden — a quiet, emotional spread showing the creature curling into bed with a sleeping family, capturing vulnerability and the search for security.

Floppy creature being pulled on leash during walk with family

Walkies – Too Tired to Go On

This humorous spread from Ian David Marsden’s book captures the all-too-familiar childhood exhaustion — the creature collapses during a walk, pulled gently along by its new human friends.

Father carrying creature home to family on doorway stoop

Brought Home – The Moment of Love

In the emotional resolution of “The Useless Thing”, the violinist father brings the quiet, awkward creature home — a beautifully illustrated moment where love arrives without needing explanation.

Cartoon inventor surrounded by colorful machine elements in comic chaos

Inventor and the Freehand Machine – Exploding Ideas

Visual storytelling packed with energy — an eccentric inventor is caught mid-thought while ideas explode into diagrams, color, and chaos. Great for editorial spreads, innovation features, or STEM storytelling for young readers.

Comic-style illustrations of workers in hard hats and office environments with humorous tone

Spot Illustrations – Hard Hat Jobs and Radio Moments at Work

A set of expressive spot illustrations designed for editorial or educational use — featuring construction scenes, factory floors, and a light-hearted moment where workers enjoy a Queen anthem on the radio. Perfect for training materials or workplace culture storytelling.

Line drawing of forest animals using crayons in a whimsical outdoor coloring page illustration

Coloring Page – Animals and Crayons at Pic Saint Loup

Whimsical black-and-white forest scene created for young readers and coloring activities — featuring a hedgehog wielding crayons among wild boars, owls, and rabbits. A lively spread ideal for activity books or environmental storytelling for children.

Wolf and animal characters driving Mehari through French countryside near Pic Saint Loup

Wolf and Friends Road Trip – Ligne Claire Style at Pic Saint Loup

Illustrated in clean ligne claire style, this vibrant piece channels mid-century European comics. It features a wolf and friends adventuring in a classic orange Mehari — perfect for stories about travel, friendship, or quirky road narratives.

Comic-style illustration of chaotic pool scene with bull and children, in vintage French BD style

Toro Piscine – French Pool Mayhem in BD Comic Style

Inspired by vintage French bande dessinée, this bright summer scene shows a wild “toro piscine” moment — perfect for humorous storytelling, festival scenes, or cultural illustrations in a playful narrative tone.

Steampunk-style superhero riding pennyfarthing bicycle in retro satire illustration

The Original Batman – Pennyfarthing Steampunk Mashup

A tongue-in-cheek fusion of superhero lore and Victorian engineering — this whimsical piece places “Batman” on a pennyfarthing bike, ideal for alt-history books, satire collections, or creative character reinterpretations.

Cat sleeping on a red chair beside fireplace in cozy home scene

Naptime Refuge – Cozy Cat by the Fire

A peaceful domestic moment captured in watercolors — a white cat naps beside a flickering fireplace, wrapped in a woolen throw. An ideal piece for themes of comfort, home, and quiet narrative rhythm in children’s publishing.

Humorous black-and-white drawing of evolutionary stages with modern satire

Evolution Parade – A Satirical Timeline

This clever black-and-white illustration traces a tongue-in-cheek “evolution” from amoeba to modern-day tech-addicted citizen, blending wit and observation with a distinct narrative arc — perfect for editorial or educational use.

Tourists at tropical airport greeted by viruses and red airplanes

Unexpected Arrival – Tropical Tarmac Reception

A playful twist on customs and arrivals — tourists land at a tropical airport only to be greeted by surreal oversized viruses and curious creatures. A humorous BD-style scene in retro atomic ligne claire style with current themes and vibrant retro energy.

Classical museum painting with modern visitors looking at phones

Screen Time at the Museum – Time Travel Interrupted

A witty illustration bridging classical art and modern distractions — museum-goers sit beneath a Renaissance painting, all engrossed in their smartphones. Commentary-rich and ideal for educational or cultural editorial content.

Dog lying on chair watching colorful abstract television stream

Media Overload – Dog Absorbing TV Static

A dreamy and surreal image of a dog bathed in colorful static waves from a glowing TV screen. This whimsical yet reflective illustration offers metaphorical weight about media saturation and imagination overload.

Watercolor teacup on checkered tablecloth with vibrant flowers

Morning Warmth – Illustrated Coffee Moment

A charming watercolor study of a steaming teacup bursting with floral energy. This domestic still life adds a moment of calm and brightness — perfect for children’s books or lifestyle editorial illustration.

Elderly person startled by large cat labeled "Scratchy" on lap; detailed humorous drawing.

Scratchy Cat – Bedtime Surprise

A humorous black-and-white illustration capturing the chaos of nighttime pet mischief. The wide-eyed elderly lady and wild-eyed feline speak to classic children’s book comedy and exaggerated domestic antics.

Cartoon version of Don Quixote on horseback with lance and giant mustache

Windmill Dreams – Don Quixote Reimagined

A modern character interpretation of Don Quixote — playful yet respectful, blending dynamic linework with narrative clarity. Ideal for literary adaptation, educational illustration, or publishing covers.

Silhouetted figure with catcompanion walking through desert wind

Nomad Caravan – Wind and Companionship

This elegant ink drawing evokes desert winds, solitude, and partnership. A serene piece that could accompany folktales, geography books, or meditative children’s stories about nature and journeying.

Fantasy board game poster with characters and colorful environment

Pillage – Game Art Poster with Characters and World

Poster-style key art from the board game Pillage, combining heroic fantasy with visual humor. Created for branding and storytelling, this piece showcases main characters, environments, and marketing elements.

Colorful fantasy characters in front of treasure chest – Pillage board game

Pillage Character Ensemble – Heroic Fantasy Adventure

A key illustration from the fantasy board game Pillage, featuring core characters — the Pirate, Spider Lady, Dona Flora, and Zephyr the Mediterranean wind — posed dramatically in front of a glowing treasure chest. A rich fusion of humor and heroism, ideal for publishing, tabletop world-building, or fantasy properties.

Illustrated fantasy character cards with portraits from board game Pillage

Fantasy Character Cards – Pillage Series

Character design cards from the Pillage universe, showcasing distinct illustrated personalities including pirates, mystics, and elemental figures. Dynamic and collectible, these are great examples of consistent world-building in fantasy IP design.

Fantasy location cards featuring churches, crosses, and olive trees

Setting Cards – Atmospheric Locations in Fantasy World

Lush location cards evoking the romantic spirit of Provence — featuring olive groves, churches, and stone crosses. These atmospheric background illustrations help transport players into a Mediterranean-inspired world full of mystery and history.

Dog enjoying tea and cookies with relaxed expression

Tea Time Dog – Cozy Moment of Calm

A gentle, humorous spot illustration of a content dog savoring tea and biscuits — this piece speaks to emotional warmth and a childlike love for routine. A great fit for lifestyle publishing, children’s books, or educational materials about emotional regulation.

Cartoon illustrations of early skiing pioneers in vintage gear

Pioneers on the Slopes – Character Spot for Ski History

Character-driven spot illustrations for a feature on ski pioneers like Henry Lunn and Arnold Lunn. Combining editorial clarity with historical context, these line artworks depict the evolution of skiing with wit and personality.

Line drawing of Swiss textile barons and industrialists

“The Textile Kings” – Die Fetzenkrämer – Swiss Historical Line Art Portraits by Ian David Marsden

Line art portraits of Swiss Textile magnates, part of an illustrated feature of historic Swiss industrial aristocracy. Rich with character design

Cartoon version of Swiss heraldic animals with expressive faces

“Coat of Arms Creatures” – Swiss Cantonal Animals Reimagined

A playful reinterpretation of Switzerland’s cantonal heraldic animals — rendered as expressive, animated characters. Designed to bridge education and entertainment for young readers and museum visitors.

Small cat with shopping bags casting giant muscular silhouette

“Big Shadow, Bigger Dreams” – Character Confidence Illusion

A charming metaphor in character illustration — a small fashionable feline throws a towering muscular shadow. Visual storytelling about confidence, identity, and how we perceive ourselves.

Comic book page with superheroes and villain, educational energy theme

“Captain Power vs. Dr. Disturber” – Comic Pages and Character Designs

Comic panels and hero/villain character concepts created for an energy company educational series. A visual blend of superpower tropes and real-world messaging for younger audiences.

Cartoon of writers surrounded by robots and scientists, retro comic style

“Robots, Writers & Brainstorms” – Retro Tech Editorial Scene

A chaotic yet stylish editorial cartoon for NZZ am Sonntag — featuring a retro-futuristic take on publishing under pressure, with robots, scientists, and frazzled creators all vying for the final word.

Illustration of Santa Claus inside snow globe with Eiffel Tower

“Parisian Snow Globe Santa” – Holiday Book Illustration by Ian David Marsden

A hand-drawn scene capturing the magic of Paris in winter, with Santa inside a snow globe delivering festive cheer. A warm, atmospheric piece perfect for storybooks and seasonal campaigns.

Cartoon gnome running on a hamster wheel with briefcase

“The Rat Race” – Gnome on the Hamster Wheel of Life

A metaphorical cartoon exploring modern life’s dizzying routines — a gnome character endlessly runs on a hamster wheel while lugging his briefcase. A clever visual for articles, books, or educational discussions on work-life balance.

Girl in red headscarf wielding sword confronts massive dragon, Rosie the Riveter meets fairy tale

Girl Power – Rosie the Riveter Meets Excalibur

A bold, empowering twist on classic mythology and fairy tale — inspired by Rosie the Riveter and the legend of Excalibur, this editorial-style illustration features a defiant Little Red slaying a dragon twenty times her size. A visual anthem of strength and defiance wrapped in fairy tale form.

Wet cartoon dog holding mug of hot chocolate in rain

“Hooray, It’s Raining” – Grumpy Dog with Cocoa

A humorous and charming image of a disgruntled pup caught in the rain, clinging to a steaming mug of cocoa. A perfect metaphor for those moody moments in books and emotional visual storytelling.

Cartoon amoeba in water surrounded by social symbols

“Influencer Amoeba” – Social Media Parody Under the Microscope

A playful piece of editorial commentary — amoeba and other microorganisms parody influencer culture, likes, and hashtags. Whimsical yet pointed in tone, ideal for science-themed books with a twist.

Shirt featuring cartoon bacteria and virus characters

“Wear Your Microbiome” – Bacteria Characters on Apparel

A vibrant collection of microbe and germ characters designed for apparel and merchandise. Each little organism has personality — blending science communication with playful design for young audiences.

Cartoon rabbit couple riding pink Vespa in countryside

“La Vie en Rose” – Rabbit Couple on a Vespa

A romantic and joyful piece capturing a bunny couple riding a pink scooter through pastel countryside. Evokes classic French charm and playful energy — ideal for storybooks or travel-themed children’s content.

Black and white pen and ink drawing of lone traveler walking up mountain path surrounded by tarot cards and ancient symbols

The Path (Black & White Version) – Pen and Ink Symbolic Journey Illustration

Created in dip pen and India ink on paper by Ian David Marsden, this symbolic black-and-white illustration explores themes of introspection, personal growth, and the spiritual journey. Tarot cards, ancient pillars, and celestial symbols guide a lone pilgrim as he ascends a winding path toward a distant tower. A strong piece for educational, reflective, or allegorical book projects.

Color illustration of traveler ascending path with tarot cards, moon, sun, and temple ruins in dreamlike style

The Path (Color Version) – Digitally Colored Symbolic Narrative Illustration

This vibrant colored version of “The Path” by Ian David Marsden brings a modern, luminous touch to a timeless metaphor. Using digital watercolor techniques, the scene becomes dreamlike and layered — perfect for narrative publishing, spiritual storytelling, and children’s books exploring inner discovery or mythical archetypes.

Cartoon fox character in various expressive poses with accessories

Fox & Bot – Expressive Character Lineup

Dynamic and friendly character designs by Ian David Marsden featuring a clean-lined anthropomorphic fox and a quirky robot sidekick. These expressive poses are ideal for children’s books, early reader materials, or lighthearted educational publishing.

Comic panel of fox character reading in window light

Quiet Moments – Fox Reading Comic Panel

A calm moment with the fox character reading by the window, captured in a clean, paneled style ideal for narrative sequences. Marsden’s uncluttered comic aesthetic supports readability for young audiences and early learners.

Fox and robot explain visual info with posters and speech

Break It Down – Fox Explains with Bot

A sleek and humorous informational comic panel designed for clarity — the fox and robot characters explain a concept using a poster-style breakdown. A perfect visual approach for children’s nonfiction or learning materials.

Fox character cooking while robot observes comic-style

In the Kitchen – Fox Comic Sequence

Character-driven slice-of-life comic strip featuring the fox in a kitchen scene with comedic flair. Clear storytelling, limited color palette, and appealing character expressions make this a strong asset for beginner graphic readers.

Fox and robot comic strip featuring shower and bathroom routine

Clean Up Time – Shower Comic for Kids

This piece explores daily habits through character-led storytelling. Using humor and minimal visual clutter, it supports children’s routines or hygiene themes in a way that’s both clear and friendly.

Cartoon scientist studies floating mouse rising like a hot air balloon

Ideas Take Flight – Cartoon Tribute to Discovery

A curious scientist contemplates a tiny floating mouse tethered to a balloon, a whimsical nod to invention, curiosity, and the thrill of new ideas taking flight.

Owl and squirrels gathered under tree with lantern and acorns

Forest School – Autumn Gathering with Owls and Squirrels

A cozy woodland scene featuring curious squirrel students, an owl teacher, and acorns in abundance — capturing themes of learning, nature, and community.

Armored snail with metallic shell and spear-like helmet

Armored Snail Concept Art

A humorous twist on protection and mobility — this snail wears full armor and rides a blade-like path, blending absurdity with a touch of ancient Sparta.

Sad long-nosed mouse leaning forward over drink

The Long-Nosed Crooner – Melancholy Mouse

A long-nosed mouse slouches over a drink, its eyes low with blues — an emotional character sketch full of quiet mood and noir tones.

Cartoon bear hugging bunny with heartwarming smile

Bear Hug – Sweet Connection Between Friends

A soft, heartfelt illustration of a bunny and bear locked in a warm embrace. A gentle reminder that love and comfort don’t need words.

Cartoon scientist popping balloon next to startled man

Pop Science – Balloon Experiment Gone Wrong

A chaotic moment of discovery as a wild-haired scientist pops a balloon next to an unsuspecting observer. A visual joke about curiosity and consequence.

Man walking in snow alongside a giant footprint

Footsteps – Lost in a Giant’s Path

A lone figure wanders through deep snow, dwarfed by a mysterious footprint. A quiet image of introspection, scale, and emotional winter solitude.

Stilt Cow – Moo-ving Above It All

A surreal and comical image of a cow perched on tall stilts, playfully elevating the everyday farm animal into something completely unexpected.

Cartoon dog smiling at reflection in dressing room mirror

The Star Reflects – Dog in Dressing Room

A heartwarming character piece of a small dog in a dressing room, smiling into the mirror. A tribute to self-belief and quiet moments before the spotlight.

Cat and dog detective characters in suits

McKitty & Henri – Detective Duo Character Art

Introducing Master Detective McKitty and Inspector Henri — a sharply dressed feline and his loyal hound partner, ready to solve any mystery with style.

Colorful jester holding postcard outside a mailbox

Jester Delivery – A Letter Full of Mischief

A flamboyant jester delivers a whimsical postcard, peeking from a mailbox with theatrical flair. A celebration of playful storytelling and colorful character design.

Giant colorful bird surprises man on bench

The Giant Bird Visit – Sudden Snack Request

A surreal encounter between a startled pensioner and an excitable oversized bird bursting out of the bushes, demanding birdseed. Comic, odd, and strangely relatable.

Skinny cartoon bird yelling “Squawk” under flowery tree

Squawk – The Skinny Bird with Something to Say

A quirky long-legged bird cries out beneath a blooming tree, spelling “SQUAWK!” in floral bloom. A fun and expressive take on sound and springtime nonsense.

Birds standing before oversized colorful fireworks

Rocket Birds – Ready for Lift-Off

A group of birds prepares for launch, standing proudly in front of giant, homemade rocket fireworks. A blend of childlike imagination and visual punch.

Two dogs sitting under large red moon in dark sky

Under the Red Moon – Quiet Wonder

Two dogs sit side-by-side beneath a vast night sky, gazing at an oversized glowing red moon. A poetic, emotional piece about companionship and awe.

Slime-like cartoon monster saying “I loooove Mondays” at desk

Monday Meltdown – A Questionable Enthusiasm

A melting green creature slumps across a desk, eyes glazed and exhausted, while declaring its undying love for Mondays. Sarcastic workplace humor in full drippy form.

Lady reading with floating theater masks and figures in a style perhaps reminiscent of classic Sempé cartoons

Theater of the Mind – Literary Spirits

A dreamy pen drawing where a woman reads while theater masks and characters emerge from the pages, hovering in the air. Light, whimsical, and full of imaginative motion.

Cartoon chef staring lovingly at tiny cupcake

The Perfect Cupcake – Culinary Reverence

A black and white character illustration of a focused chef admiring a single, perfect cupcake with reverent awe. Visual storytelling through precision and restraint.

Psychiatrist writing “Nevermore” as raven speaks from chair

Nevermore – Psychiatrist and the Raven

A weary analyst listens to a raven perched nearby, taking notes as the bird repeats just one word: “Nevermore.” A dry literary gag with echoes of Poe.

Elderly man and dog looking out window side by side

Window Companions – Shared Quiet

A gentle, emotional piece of a retired man and his very elderly dog gazing quietly out the window together — a reflection on time, stillness, and companionship.

Floppy white cartoon dog in a hat smiling peacefully

The Happy Camper

A soft, humorous character portrait of a dog in a tiny cap — completely relaxed, perhaps questionably so — grinning like he’s won at life. Or at least lunch.

Cartoon man walking with Loch Ness Monster strapped to his back

Loch Ness Load-Bearing Backpacker

A smiling Scottish man trudges out of the loch, carrying the entire Loch Ness Monster like a backpack. Plaid, pipes, and preposterousness.

Cartoon beat poet on red couch with heart pattern writing in notebook

The Love-Laced Lounge Poet

A French beatnik lies on a heart-covered couch in classic pose, penning poetry in his notebook with serious glasses and serious feelings. Possibly about croissants.

Holmes and Watson by fireplace with Santa hiding in background

Sherlock Claus – A Hidden Case

A cozy pen-and-ink drawing of Holmes and Watson mid-discussion by the fireplace, unaware that Santa and his reindeer are eavesdropping behind a curtain. Not your typical deduction.

Bunny painting intricate Easter egg featuring himself and golden egg

The Egg Within the Egg

A tiny bunny diligently paints an ornate giant Easter egg… of himself… discovering a golden egg. Recursive, magical, and delightfully self-referential.

Abstract sculpture with two cartoon dogs looking up at it

“I Could Have Made That”

A lumpy abstract sculpture stands proudly in a gallery space while two unimpressed dogs stare up and judge — “I could have made that,” one mutters. An ode to artistic ego, taste, and canine confidence.

Pink cartoon mouse costume draped over chair

Retired Mouse

A soft and slightly absurd image — a full-body pink mouse costume slouched on a chair like it’s had a long day. Whimsical, nostalgic, and quietly funny in the best way.

Illustration for Books and Narrative Projects

Books illustrated by Ian

Marvin: Based on “The Way I Was”

The Secret Egg

Willkommen im Kollegenzoo

Football Heroes

Football Heroes See Red!

Football Heroes Gold

Zürich, my little town

Book Illustration & Visual Storytelling | Ian David Marsden

Illustration for Books and
Narrative Projects

Marvin: Based on
“The Way I Was”