Editorial Illustration That Speaks Volumes

Original. Distinctive. Unmistakably Marsden.

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Editorial & Educational Illustration for Print and Digital Media

For more than 30 years, I have created editorial illustration, educational illustration, cartoons, comic strips and narrative-driven visuals for newspapers, magazines, publishers, institutions and cultural organisations.

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For a quick, shareable overview of my illustration range, download my illustrator portfolio PDF.

Editorial, cultural and educational commissions

Published work includes editorial illustration, press cartoons, visual commentary, cultural illustration and educational imagery for newspapers, magazines, publishers and institutions. Assignments range from cover concepts and spot illustrations to longer-form visual storytelling, explanatory sequences and narrative images built around text.

Educational commissions include collaborations with academic publishers, training contexts, public-interest communication and learning-focused projects in Switzerland, Germany, France and the UK. These assignments often involve textbook illustration, educational publishing, visual explanation, comics for learning and illustrations designed to support comprehension across different ages, literacy levels and language contexts.

Professional affiliations and publication platforms

Cartooning for Peace

I am a member of Cartooning for Peace, an international network of editorial cartoonists who use drawing and humour to promote dialogue, tolerance and freedom of expression.

Founded in 2006 by Plantu and Kofi Annan at the United Nations, the association supports freedom of the press, intercultural dialogue and the visibility of cartoonists whose work engages with democratic values and human rights.

Visit my page on Cartooning for Peace

Cartoon Movement

As a contributing cartoonist for Cartoon Movement, I publish editorial and political cartoons addressing current events, geopolitics and social questions through hand-drawn narrative illustration.

Cartoon Movement is a major platform for independent visual journalism, syndicating work to international media, NGOs and human-rights organisations. It offers an important context for editorial cartooning that is current, international and explicitly engaged with public debate.

View my gallery on Cartoon Movement

Click on any gallery image below to enlarge

Editorial Illustration by Ian David Marsden

Crowd Scene - Massenszene Wimmelbild

This hand-drawn crowd scene unfolds in a high-speed timelapse video, showcasing expressive character design and detailed linework. Created entirely with digital ink, the piece reflects my approach to high-quality live drawing, explainer visuals, and editorial illustration. A great example of visual storytelling and handcrafted technique in motion.

Cartoon characters from kindness explainer video including Sam, old lady, classmates, and smiling brain illustration.

Visualizing Empathy – Sam and Friends

Timelapse-style composition from “The Science of Kindness” video showing Sam surrounded by those affected by his actions. The characters were created in a consistent, friendly line style by Ian David Marsden.

Montage of three acts of kindness by Sam, drawn in cartoon whiteboard style for UK educational explainer video.

Kindness in Action – Holding Door, Comforting Friend

Sequence from “The Science of Kindness” showing three acts by Sam: holding the door for an elderly lady, comforting a sad classmate, and inviting a peer to join a game. Illustrated by Ian David Marsden for 52 Lives.

Cartoon representations of cortisol and inflammation beside smiling Sam from explainer video “The Science of Kindness.”

Cortisol & Inflammation Characters – Science of Kindness

Personified villains “Cortisol” and “Inflammation” represent the stress-reducing benefits of kindness. From the educational explainer video created by Ian David Marsden for 52 Lives.

Cartoon family hugging, with labeled drawings of a heart, oxytocin, and nitric oxide molecules.

Family Bonding – Oxytocin and Nitric Oxide

Kindness strengthens family bonds and releases positive hormones. This scene from the explainer video illustrates how oxytocin and nitric oxide support heart health and emotional connection.

Cartoon scene of early humans and a saber-tooth tiger from the explainer video “The Science of Kindness.”

Evolutionary Stress Response – Cave Scene

Illustrated cave scene showing the evolutionary roots of our stress response. Created for the 52 Lives explainer video “The Science of Kindness” by Ian David Marsden. This humorous visual introduces the concept of fight-or-flight and its biological legacy.

Oxytocin – The Love Hormone

Kindness releases oxytocin, the “love hormone” linked to bonding and trust. This illustration from “The Science of Kindness” shows the joyful neurochemical response triggered by compassion.

Cartoon of smiling boy with labeled brain releasing dopamine, drawn in soft colors.

Dopamine and the Brain’s Reward System

This illustration explains how kindness triggers dopamine release, creating a “helper’s high.” From the explainer video “The Science of Kindness” by Ian David Marsden.

Cartoon child sleeps peacefully with smiling brain and heart beside him, from kindness explainer video.

No Stress – Sleep Scene with Happy Brain & Heart

This calming illustration shows how acts of kindness help reduce stress. Sam sleeps peacefully with happy personifications of his brain and heart—drawn for “The Science of Kindness” explainer video by Ian David Marsden.

Hearts link multiple characters in this visual metaphor for how kindness spreads through communities.

Kindness Chain Reaction – Spreading Empathy

A chain of kindness spreads from one character to the next in this still from “The Science of Kindness.” This image represents how empathy ripples outward. Hand-drawn by illustrator Ian David Marsden.

Characters stand around the Earth as hearts and sunshine surround them, from kindness explainer video.

Closing Scene – Kindness Around the World

Final scene from “The Science of Kindness,” encouraging viewers to reflect and take action. Illustrated by Ian David Marsden, this image invites children to consider how they can spread kindness today.

Editorial-style illustrations with hand-drawn and digital elements

Editorial Illustration Series – Business & Lifestyle Themes

A showcase of expressive editorial illustrations combining digital polish with a hand-drawn, analog warmth — ideal for high-impact storytelling.

Übersicht der illustrierten Satire-Auswertung im Nebelspalter-Magazin, gezeichnet von Ian David Marsden

Bin ich ein Heuchler? – Satirisches Quiz mit Illustrationen

rau mit besorgtem Blick vor TV-Bild von Flüchtlingsboot – redaktionelle Illustration von Ian David Marsden

Der gute Wille – Karikatur über Helfersyndrom und Heuchelei

Mann mit Autoschlüssel und ehrlichem Lächeln – Karikatur von Ian David Marsden für Nebelspalter

Schamlos ehrlich – Editorial Cartoon über Authentizität

Karikatur eines biederen Mannes mit Gartenzwerg und Gnomex-Reiniger – gezeichnet von Ian David Marsden

Der Angsthase – Illustration zur moralischen Feigheit

Illustration eines scheinheiligen Geistlichen mit Heiligenschein, der heimlich einer Frau unter den Rock greift – gezeichnet von Ian David Marsden für Nebelspalter

Der Scheinheilige – Karikatur zur Doppelmoral

Illustration eines Aktivisten mit Anti-Kuh-Furz-Plakat – satirische Zeichnung von Ian David Marsden für Nebelspalter

Der Gutmensch – Karikatur über Klima-Moralisten

Stylized illustration of a figure pointing with text "I WANT YOU TO CHANGE THE WORLD" and hashtags.

Uncle Sam Style Change the World Poster

The image features a stylized illustration of a figure pointing towards the viewer, reminiscent of the Uncle Sam recruitment posters. The text reads "I WANT YOU TO CHANGE THE WORLD" with hashtags #PPHO, #INTALENTWETRUST, and #IMPACT included at the bottom. The artwork is signed by Ian David Marsden.

Cartoon illustration of a trendy woman and a dull man enjoying coffee in a Swiss café created for Nebelspalter magazine, Swiss Cartoonist

Flat White Illustration – Trendy Swiss Café Cartoon

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Cartoon of a person with glasses working on a machine with colorful gears and abstract shapes.

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Cartoon of man on bench with animals mimicking a strange gesture by Ian David Marsden.

Strange gesture in the park

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Caricature of two men, one in a jacket, one in a suit with glasses, holding champagne.

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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.

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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.

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.

Two people by a luxury car and a store, holding a laptop, coffee, and a pen.

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Satirical article with illustrations categorizing urban dwellers like "Bergzürcher" and "Hipster".

Urban Stereotype Satire

Eine zoologische Betrachtung" written by Dr. W. M., focusing on the characteristics of urban dwellers. It humorously categorizes different types of city inhabitants, such as "Bergzürcher," "Hipster," and "Gutmensch." The pages contain text and cartoon-style illustrations that depict the described groups, offering a satirical view of modern city life in a growing population context. The article includes various subheadings and scenarios illustrating distinct urban stereotypes and their behaviors.

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Colorful caricature of four artists with symbolic objects, set by a building with a cross.

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Four caricatured artists engaged in signature styles with abstract background elements.

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Board game illustrating entrepreneurial journey with stages, challenges, and playful illustrations.

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Artistic illustration of two fairies with a man, absinthe on table, vintage style.

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Infographic illustrating airport innovation management as a pool landscape metaphor.

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Cartoon of Donald Trump in chaotic, explosive scene by illustrator Ian Marsden.

Editorial Cartoon – Trump Fiasko by Ian Marsden

Cartoon of blond person in distress with tears, clenched fists, red tie, "WAAAHH!" above.

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Caricature of a man with wild hair, intense face, and cartoon spies with secret documents.

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Cartoon of person with secret document titled "Top Top Top Secret" in magazine layout.

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X Logo Parody – Elon Musk Social Media Satire by Ian Marsden

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.

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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.

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Person in lab coat with telescope, tentacles, galaxy, and alien figure in a black and white scene.

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Two illustrations: a château wine scene by the fire and a woman with a wolf in a misty landscape. Drawn by Ian David Marsden.

Château and Wolf Illustration by Ian David Marsden

Daytime illustration of Montpellier’s Arc de Triomphe in Marsden’s clear line style.

Montpellier Day Scene – Arc de Triomphe Urban Illustration

Nighttime illustration of Montpellier’s Arc de Triomphe by Ian Marsden.

Montpellier Night Scene – Arc de Triomphe Illustration by Marsden

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.

Two portraits of Ulrico Hoepli, Swiss publisher in Italy, known for technical and educational works.

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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

DJ Miroman - Portrait Caricature Cartoon from photographs

Caricature portrait of Swiss DJ Miroman with headphones and tattoos

Elderly person nervously holding a large sleeping tabby cat on lap with "SCRATCHY" text above.

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Cartoon of two kings comparing ornate crowns, illustrated by Ian David Marsden.

Mine’s Bigger! Satirical Cartoon: Two Kings Comparing Crowns by Ian Marsden

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Cat sleeping on sofa, table with cup, glasses, newspaper. Fireplace, heart sculpture outside window.

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Animal adventure illustrations in France, including scenic drives, vineyards, and whimsical characters by Ian David Marsden

French Animal Adventure BD Illustrations by Ian David Marsden

Older person with tattoo, holding a mug and cigarette, sitting at a table, grayscale illustration.

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Line drawing of man with floral hat and tie, reading newspaper at table with coffee and flowers.

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Newspaper page with 2007 Swiss voter archetype cartoons and voter demographic analysis.

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Man reads "Der Bund" with pipe, smiling bear, domed building, and photo-taking people in background.

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Business training Wimmelbild by Ian David Marsden for corporate communication and crisis response.

Wimmelbild for Corporate Training – Ian David Marsden Illustration

Hand-drawn teacup with floral design on a checkered tablecloth, pink flowers in background.

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

Buchcover-Illustration: “Zwei Buchstaben” von Helmi Sigg

Buchcover von “Zwei Buchstaben” mit weihnachtlicher Szene und mystischen Symbolen, illustriert von Schweizer Illustrator Ian David Marsden.

Helmi Siggs “Zwei Buchstaben” – Eine etwas andere Weihnachtsgeschichte

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.

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.

Colorful vector café poster with vector cutout characters by Ian David Marsden.

Retro Café Vector Illustration – Character Art by Ian Marsden

Woman and robot walk past futuristic café – ligne claire cartoon by Ian David Marsden.

Futuristic City Street – Ligne Claire Tech Cartoon by Marsden

Black and white caricature of a smiling person with large ears wearing a suit and collared shirt.

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Man on rocky peak gazes at ornate castle across misty landscape, inspired by Caspar David Friedrich.

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Cartoon images of protest, virus, koala, couple, spicy chip challenge, and magazine article pages.

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Man rides a detailed penny-farthing bicycle with a bottle of Petrus wine beside him.

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A lively cartoon titled Ein Schweizer am Oktoberfest by Ian David Marsden. This illustration captures a jovial Bavarian in traditional attire raising a toast to a happy yet slightly intimidated Swiss tourist, celebrating the festive spirit of Munich’s iconic Oktoberfest.

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Cartoon portrait of a smiling couple running hand in hand through a field of flowers, illustrated by Ian David Marsden based on photographs

Custom Cartoon Portrait of Couple by Ian David Marsden

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.

Men carving a large portrait into a mountainside with hammers and chisels.

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Statues in fountain at Place de Thessalie, Antigone, Montpellier, one taking a selfie.

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Messiah Lutheran Church pamphlet emphasizing welcome, inclusivity, and community involvement.

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Comic-style magazine cover featuring King Göla, titled "CH-Pop Boomt!" with music acts listed.

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Comic magazine "U-COMIX" cover with illustrated portrait, orange scarf, vibrant makeup.

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MacDirectory cover features caricature with device, colorful attire, flying objects, and cartoons.

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Explorer in cave with torch observing ancient pictographs of humans and animals on walls.

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Illustration of a man's head split in half, revealing gears and whimsical figure inside.

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Colorful kitchen illustration with spices, veggies, oil, wine, knife, lemons, plant, and pan on stove.

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Kitchen illustration with shelves, ingredients, wine glass, potted plant, and frying pan on stove.

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Black and white comic strip titled "Der brave Soldat Schwejk" with characters in dialogue.

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Comic strip from 1992 with a man presenting a riddle about a caretaker's grandma.

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Black-and-white comic strip with characters humorously discussing measurements and existential topics.

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Comic from a 1992 Swiss magazine with men surprised by a shout for Emperor Franz Joseph I.

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Man reading by fireplace in cozy room with pictures. Cat on rug, table with cup beside chair.

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Cartoon of a person holding a mug near a decorative blue vase on a stand with hanging greenery.

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Child with skull shirt sitting inside coiled creature, sketch-like illustration.

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Man with mustache in bright yellow suit, abstract background, "OH YEAH!" text above.

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Caricature of an elderly man in a suit holding a Burger King crown, with detailed features.

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Santa Claus in red outfit playing festive electric guitar, with "Rockin' Santa" text above.

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Two caricatures of an older man in a suit and glasses, one in color, one in black and white.

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Cartoon of a green blob character at a desk with a laptop, sarcastically loving Mondays.

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Fluffy white dog on floor with framed man portrait above, wallpaper background.

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