mark mcginnis
Graphic Design
Graphic design and illustration have always been intimate bedfellows. My foundation in graphic design is what made me an effective illustrator. At their core, both disciplines are about communication—graphic design often leans on words, while illustration tells a story without them, using cultural cues and visual symbolism.
When I worked primarily as a graphic designer, I found myself drawn to creating icons—symbols that could distill an idea in a single form. That instinct to communicate clearly and efficiently is what eventually led me to illustration. I realized I could build deeper visual literacy in a picture than in a paragraph.
That relationship still shapes my work today. Whether I’m painting a sign for a coffee shop, designing fine bone china, or illustrating holiday ornaments, I’m always drawing from my graphic design roots to tell a story with clarity, style, and intent.
Graphic Design
Graphic design and illustration have always been intimate bedfellows. My foundation in graphic design is what made me an effective illustrator. At their core, both disciplines are about communication—graphic design often leans on words, while illustration tells a story without them, using cultural cues and visual symbolism.
When I worked primarily as a graphic designer, I found myself drawn to creating icons—symbols that could distill an idea in a single form. That instinct to communicate clearly and efficiently is what eventually led me to illustration. I realized I could build deeper visual literacy in a picture than in a paragraph.
That relationship still shapes my work today. Whether I’m painting a sign for a coffee shop, designing fine bone china, or illustrating holiday ornaments, I’m always drawing from my graphic design roots to tell a story with clarity, style, and intent.
