Editorial Illustrator
Kati works as an editorial illustrator based in UK. She creates thoughtful editorial illustrations that are most commonly concept-driven.
What is editorial illustration?
Editorial illustration refers to artwork created to accompany written text in publications such as magazines, newspapers and online new outlets. These illustrations help convey complex ideas and add visual interest to engage readers. They can vary widely in style, from whimsical and abstract to realistic and detailed.
Editorial illustrations can include everything from political cartoons and conceptual artwork to infographics and character-driven visuals. Their primary purpose is to complement the written word by providing additional context or emotional resonance, making the overall piece more memorable and relatable for the audience.
Editorial illustration
As you may be aware, illustrators work in their own unique styles. My illustration style has been described as delicate, witty and insightful, which I wilfully adapt to meet different needs.
My editorial work is most commonly concept-driven, however, I also create line portraits, food illustration and character-driven illustrations.
My process in a nutshell
Research
Gathering relevant information about the project. This could include reading around the subject to have a deeper understanding of the bigger picture, creating mind-maps, coming up with ideas and identifying themes. This stage is usually preceded by a meeting where I can listen to the key messages and discuss them with you.
Rough sketches
Based on the research, I create a series of rough sketches. The roughs are always pencil drawings and the main aim of this phase is to agree on the ideas and if applicable, the composition.
Creating the illustrations
Once the rough sketches are approved, I begin to create the final design. Depending on the feedback, the line drawings are sometimes shared before applying colour and textures but usually this is not necessary.
Finishing touches
After another round of feedback, I apply the finishing touches to the illustrations and share them for approval.
FAQs
What’s the process for starting a project with you?
The best way to get in touch with me is to fill in the form at the bottom of this page where you can describe your project briefly. I try to get back to all enquiries quickly and we can take it from there.
How long does an illustration typically take?
This depends on the complexity of the piece, but for most editorial projects, it would be a 3-4 days per illustration. If there’s a tighter deadline, I’m happy to discuss options to meet your timeline.
How many revisions do you offer?
Most commonly my process includes two rounds of revisions (one after rough sketches, one after colour image has been shared) but I’m not against more. It usually doesn’t take more than three rounds to get to a place where everyone is happy with the outcome.
Do you have a specific style, or can you adapt to different looks?
If you look through the examples above, you will see that I do adjust my style if needed. I have illustrated topics from the playful to the controversial and have been able to adjust the tone of my illustrations accordingly.
What format do you deliver the illustrations in?
I deliver high-resolution digital files most commonly in pdf or psd files, ready for publication. If you need something specific, just let me know.
Are you available for ongoing projects or just one-offs?
I’m open to both – it’s good to build longer-term partnerships, but I’m also happy to work on one-time projects as they come. We can always discuss the details and see what fits both of us best.
How do you ensure the illustration matches our story’s tone?
I’ll take time to understand your article’s mood, key points, and any specific directions you provide. It’s important to me that the artwork feels natural within your content.
What rights do we get with your illustrations?
Licensing can be flexible based on your needs. I’m always open to discussing tailored licensing options.
What others have to say
“Kati has been a pleasure to work with. Her dedication to the project has been consistent from the first minute to the last. She captured perfectly what the Old Fire Station stands for through her extensive research, unique way of seeing, beautiful colour palette and dreamy characters. We are overjoyed with the result!”
Justine Malone
Arts at the Old Fire Station, Oxford
"It was not an easy brief but Kati interpreted the complex theme to present it in a way that was accessible and identifiable to a broad audience, which demonstrated a deep understanding of both design principles and the subject matter. Kati’s creative vision and attention to detail brought the theme to life in a way that was both engaging and informative. The design elements were not only visually impressive but also served to enhance the overall narrative. The use of colour and typography has really helped us to create an identity throughout the site and adapt the theme to different seasons, moreover the design combined artistic creativity with practical functionality. We wouldn’t hesitate to work with Kati again. Thank you."
Emma Emerson
Hughenden Manor, National Trust
“The illustrations and site-map that Kati has created for Kelmscott Manor are really very successful and everyone associated with the National Lottery Heritage Fund project was equally impressed with their clarity and the way in which the drawings of the Morris family members, birds and other characters work so well with the typography. She has made a delightful contribution to the Interpretation of the Manor and its outbuildings.”
Peter Cormack
MBE FSA Hon. Curatorial Adviser, Kelmscott Manor
“Kati has been an utter delight to work with and her illustrations have already become a treasured part of our College community. Now, with the map, we have a lovely (and very useful!) souvenir to give our visitors!“
Maryanne Saunders
Lincoln College
Get in touch
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Tell me a little bit about your project and we can take it from there.
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