Blog Archives

PILLAGE autour du Pic – Board Game Design & Illustration | Pic Saint‑Loup, Montpellier

PILLAGE autour du Pic – Board Game Design & Illustration, Pic Saint‑Loup (Montpellier, France)

Game Box Artwork – Treasure at Pic Saint‑Loup
Description: Emblematic box cover with key characters and treasure against a detailed Pic Saint‑Loup backdrop.
Alt text: Game box illustration featuring adventurers around treasure with mountain scenery.

Game Design • Card Design • Character Creation • Art Direction • Visual Narrative

Immerse yourself in PILLAGE autour du Pic, a richly illustrated adventure board game set in the picturesque Pic Saint‑Loup region (Occitanie). This project showcases:

  • Game design & card design (conception de jeu & design de cartes)
  • Character creation (création de personnages)
  • Art direction (direction artistique)
  • Board layout & visual storytelling (mise en page du plateau & narration visuelle)

Featured Illustrations

  1. Game Box Artwork – Treasure at Pic Saint‑Loup
    Description: Emblematic box cover with key characters and treasure against a detailed Pic Saint‑Loup backdrop.Alt text: Game box illustration featuring adventurers around treasure with mountain scenery.
  2. Character Cards Sheet – Heroes & VillainsDescription: Vibrant character cards showcasing expressive figures central to gameplay.Alt text: Card sheet with colorful illustrated characters in dynamic poses.
  3. Central Game Board – Strategic PlaymatDescription: Game board topography highlighting pathways and zones with regional landmarks.Alt text: Board game layout with terrain, player routes, and Pic Saint‑Loup features.
  4. Rulebook Infographics – Game Mechanics ExplainedDescription: Illustrated visual guide with icons and diagrams to clarify gameplay steps.Alt text: Rulebook page including annotated illustrations and user-friendly instructions.
Character Cards Sheet – Heroes & Villains
Description: Vibrant character cards showcasing expressive figures central to gameplay.
Alt text: Card sheet with colorful illustrated characters in dynamic poses.
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Creating the Artwork for the Mercedes-Benz Employee Manual

Mercedes-Benz Mitarbeiterknigge Cover
Vector illustration for corporate training manual cover. Features branded character design, dealership architecture, and team interaction. Created in Adobe Illustrator as part of a visual identity system for internal communication and brand-aligned employee onboarding.


 Illustration Case Study: Mercedes-Benz Employee Manual — A Milestone in Visual Communication

As an illustrator and concept designer with over 30 years of international experience, I’ve had the privilege of working on many high-level and creatively rewarding assignments. Among the most meaningful: the illustrated Mercedes-Benz Employee Conduct Manual, known internally as the “Mitarbeiterknigge.”

Politeness and Conduct
Illustration supporting respectful conduct in shared workspaces. Visual storytelling highlights awareness of others, tone of voice, and personal presentation.

Commissioned by the respected communications agency Sieber & Wolf, and developed in close collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, this project brought together high standards of brand integrity, creativity, and storytelling.

(“Knigge,” named after the 18th-century German philosopher Adolph Freiherr von Knigge, has become shorthand in German-speaking countries for etiquette, courtesy, and professional conduct.)

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Official CELSYS Event – Live Clip Studio Paint Illustration: “The City at Night”

Clip Studio Paint Live Drawing Party

On November 17, 2020, I was officially invited by CELSYS, creators of Clip Studio Paint, to participate as a featured artist in their Creative Together! Connected Ink 21-hour Drawing Party. This global livestreamed event was part of Wacom’s Connected Ink—a major international forum exploring the future of creative pen and digital content technology.

Live Clip Studio Paint illustration by Ian David Marsden – City at Night - Drawing on Cintiq27QHD

Watch my full segment (starts at 6:27:39):

YouTube Livestream – Ian David Marsden: “The City at Night”

Live Clip Studio Paint illustration by Ian David Marsden – City at Night drawing on Wacom Cintiq27

Broadcast live from my studio in France, I illustrated the theme “The City at Night” using Clip Studio Paint on a Wacom Cintiq 27 QHD Touch. The 90-minute session allowed real-time interaction with a global audience via live chat. Viewers followed the entire digital workflow—from sketch to final render—while asking questions and exchanging insights during the broadcast.

Woman and Robot strolling by a Paris Cafe at night - digital illustration by Ian David Marsden www.marsden.fr
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Let’s connect on Linkedin


LinkedIn Profile Now Fully Updated — 75+ Projects Across Illustration, Branding, UX/UI, Animation & Visual Storytelling

LinkedIn Profile Now Fully Updated — 75+ Projects Across Illustration, Branding, UX/UI, Animation & Visual Storytelling

LinkedIn profile of Ian David Marsden, Swiss illustrator and creative director based in France. Features profile photo, client projects, editorial illustrations, wine labels, and UX visuals for international brands.

My professional LinkedIn profile is now fully updated and includes over 75 detailed entries spanning two decades of international work across illustration, character design, branding, UX/UI, and visual communication.

Each project showcases a specific client collaboration—from editorial illustration and corporate storytelling to character design and mascot creation, wine label design, packaging, infographics, explainer videos, motion graphics, and business comics. PDF case studies are included for selected campaigns.

LinkedIn experience timeline of Ian David Marsden, highlighting over 40 years in editorial cartoons, UX/UI design, brand mascots, and corporate storytelling across Switzerland, Germany, and France.

You’ll find work created for clients in France, Switzerland, Germany, the United States, and beyond—across sectors including SaaS, education, energy, food & wine, culture, tech, and publishing.

Highlights:

  • Full career timeline and credentials
  • Over 75 project entries with media files
  • Editorial illustration, branding & identity systems
  • Character design, mascot creation, UX storytelling
  • Motion design, explainer videos, onboarding visuals
  • Comics and sequential art for internal and public campaigns
  • Infographics, packaging, wine labels, product visuals
  • Professional trilingual communication (EN/FR/DE)
  • Strategic storytelling for startups, agencies, and publishers
  • PDF case files for select projects (e.g., iSHEPHERD, Sustain-D, INTWT)
Screenshot of Ian David Marsden’s LinkedIn projects section showcasing editorial illustrations, business comics, literary humor, and storytelling visuals for international publications.

This profile is designed to support agencies, publishers, and international clients seeking a seasoned creative partner for illustration, design, and storytelling projects.

View my LinkedIn Profile

Complete archive at marsdenillustration.com

Featured section of Ian David Marsden’s LinkedIn profile including project media: sustainability-themed business comics, Clip Studio Paint live drawing event, and editorial illustration for Mercedes-Benz.

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Friars Club NYC – Animated Website Intro

Short intro animation created specifically for the Friars Club, New York City.

Several monk friar characters were created for animated GIFs and icons for the website
including Jackie Gleason playing pool and this little friar for the animation.

All artwork was created in Adobe Illustrator as vector art and then animated in Adobe Flash.

Client: Friars Club, Date: 2008, Artist: Ian David Marsden – www.marsdenillustration.com

Caricatures of Friars Club Officials opening red curtain – Animated Cartoon GIF
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Mascot Design Logo FIS Ski World Championship 2003 St. Moritz

(with YouTube Video Radio Interview with Mascot Designer Ian Marsden)

I n 2002 I was contacted by the organization for the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in the renowned pristine alpine resort town of St. Moritz, Switzerland. I was informed, that I had been chosen as the designer and illustrator to create the official mascot for the event.

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Artwork for Series of Micro Learning Videos

Character Design, Backround Design, Asset Design and Illustrations for “Knowledge Nuggets” micro-learning videos for the United States Federal Acquisition Institute (FAI).

Artist: Ian David Marsden
Media: Vector Artwork in Adobe Illustrator CC

More examples of explainer videos and whiteboard videos with my artwork and a description of the production process can be found HERE

https://marsdenillustration.com/portfolio/whiteboard/

Knowledge Nuggets Artwork by Ian David Marsden
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Avatar and Character Design

(… and SUPER HEROES)

Avatars and character designs to be used in print, motion graphics, whiteboard videos, or explainer videos. Detailed and shaded in different styles or flat line art and vector graphics. Delivered on layers ready for import into your layout software or Premiere or After Effects.

Various different vector character avatars
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Custom Whiteboard Videos by Experienced Cartoonist – High Quality and Affordable

Explainer Videos, Whiteboard Animation, and Cartoon Animation by Ian David Marsden

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the necessity for engaging, dynamic content is paramount. As attention spans contract, the ability to swiftly capture and sustain viewer engagement is vital. Moving visuals, especially hand-drawn videos, shine as invaluable assets in this domain. Their charm and animated nature don’t just convey your message; they make it memorable.

Whiteboard or Explainer Videos blend simplicity with creativity, masterfully transforming complex topics into digestible and captivating narratives. With over two decades of expertise in illustration, character design, and cartooning, I infuse every video with a distinct, refined touch.

erene Walk by the Castle at the Lake - Drawing Video by Ian David Marsden

Our partnership kicks off with a comprehensive briefing, allowing me to deeply understand your aspirations and objectives. Scripting and storyboarding follow, laying down the visual and narrative blueprint. I pride myself on my commitment to authenticity and originality. The videos I craft avoid the trappings of generic templates and characters, opting instead for custom illustrations that harmonize with your brand and its message.

In a market saturated with providers leveraging software, pre-loaded drawings, and templated assets, many videos risk looking indistinguishably similar, potentially exuding an air of uninspired mass production. My approach contrasts sharply. Every creation is genuinely hand-drawn, custom-tailored, and deeply attuned to your brand’s ethos. The styles you might have enjoyed in my portfolio? All are at your disposal, from monochromatic sketches to vivid, full-color masterpieces.

Trainiere im Zuerich Gym – 24/7 Fitness mit Europameister Frank Müller

Yet, quality doesn’t necessitate extravagance. Despite offering expert craftsmanship and bespoke content, my rates are surprisingly competitive. The proposition is clear: top-tier quality without the top-tier price. Each collaboration is structured with transparent, flat-rate estimates from conception to completion, ensuring you can plan without the stress of unforeseen costs. Defined milestones keep the project on track and punctual.

Your message deserves prominence. Should you be seeking an authentic, captivating narrative, whether for product showcases, service introductions, or business processes, I am poised to deliver. Reach out, let’s discuss a no-commitment offer, and embark on a journey to make your content distinct, engaging, and memorable.

Thank you for considering a collaboration. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

Ian Marsden – ian@marsdenillustration.com – iphone/whatsapp: +33 (0)6 42 49 82 11


Custom Illustrated Videos by Ian David Marsden – Hand-Drawn Cartoons

#whiteboardvideos #custommade #cartoonist #highquality #affordable

VISIT MY YOUTUBE PLAYLIST WITH MANY VIDEO SAMPLES

Next Generation Learning: Hand-Drawn Explainer Video

What ARE Explainer Videos or Whiteboard Videos?

What Are Explainer Videos and Whiteboard Animations? - Ian David Marsden Explains!

What Styles can be used?


Pretty much any style you can find in my art portfolio: https://marsdenillustration.com/portfolio-2020/

Click gallery images below to enlarge and open slideshow

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”28″ display=”pro_imagebrowser”]

Video combining animation with live action

The World is Not Flat - Seeing & Understanding the All Stars Approach to Human Development

Some examples of video series produced in english, german and french using known voice talents:

Beispielvideo auf Deutsch mit der Stimme von Schauspieler Kaspar Eichel
(Schauspieler und Synchronsprecher. Er ist bekannt als die deutsche Stimme von Robert Redford)

PilzVideo 001 Kultivierung der Pilze

Example Video in English with the voice of David A. Watson

MushroomVideo 002 Production of Mushroom Powder

Vidéo en Français avec la voix de Daniel Beretta
Daniel Beretta, est un acteur, auteur-compositeur-interprète
Également célèbre pour son travail dans le milieu du doublage,
il est notamment la voix française régulière d’Arnold Schwarzenegger

ChampignonVideo 006 L'essentiel en bref

Every video and all illustrations are custom made with care and precision.
No clip-art or stock art. No re-usable characters, no repeated faces, bodies or puppets.
No prefabricated explainer software. 

What are the costs?

Please contact me for a free und non-binding flat-rate estimate, custom made for your needs and project requirements. My flat rates include idea phase, storyboarding, final art, video production and transfer of usage rights (also for characters and artwork).



Knowledge Nuggets for the Federal Acquisition Institute:

What is a Program Manager
[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”27″ display=”pro_horizontal_filmstrip” show_captions=”0″]

(character designs, illustrations and backgrounds by Ian David Marsden)
for the Federal Acquisition Institute
https://www.fai.gov/media-library/collection/knowledge-nugget

Some More Example Videos

Hawlik Vitalpilze – 005 – Wir lassen dem Pilz die volle Zeit zur Reife
Hawlik Gesundheitsprodukte

Hawlik Vitalpilze - 005 - Wir lassen dem Pilz die volle Zeit zur Reife

Dfreeeze Smart Phone App (Deutsche Version) – Digades

dFreeeze Standheizung per App - Animiertes Erklärvideo mit maßgeschneiderten Illustrationen“

Break the chain of Infection IPC Infection prevention and control
Dräger Global

Break the chain of Infection_IPC_Infection prevention and control

PDF DOWNLOAD WITH ART SAMPLES

Download PDF with art samples: Drawings, Cartoons, Comics, Graphic Novels, Children’s Books

Download PDF with art samples:
Advertising, Marketing, Merchanidising, Vector Art,
Logos, Design, Character Design, Mascots



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

Bio Ian Marsden English | Bio Ian Marsden Français | Bio Ian Marsden Deutsch

For a partial client list and testimonials please visit my biography page.

© Copyright 2022 the individual clients / artist: Ian David Marsden
(Displayed on my personal homepage for self-promotional purposes under rights granted by my terms and conditions.)

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Marsden Illustration