This section explores the many artistic genres or types of illustration that have been the focus of artists working in the field, from historical to contemporary.
Advertising
Illustrations being used to catch a viewer's attention and convey a very effective message.
![“The Lineman” [detail]](/images/made/images/uploads/The_Lineman_116_76_c1.jpg)
Advertising: Political and Public Service
Images designed to promote a candidate or social issue rather than goods or services.
![Cover of “Acme Novelty Library #7 (Book of Jokes)” [detail]](/images/made/images/uploads/848a17eedc924196b2d457b4ce899616_116_76_c1.jpg)
Cartooning: Caricature
Exaggerating a person's physical characteristics for a comic or grotesque effect.
Cartooning: Political and Editorial
An illustration making commentary on current events or a personality using satire
Comics: Comic Books
Periodicals which typically contain illustrated stories of superheroes or humorous characters.
Comics: Comic Strips
Sequential illustrations confined to boxes featuring characters interacting via thought or speech balloons.
Decorative and Applied Illustration: Tattoos
Body art which has been applied from prehistoric time to present day.
Fantasy: Role-Playing Games
Illustrations of fantastic creatures form the foundation of role-playing games.
Graphic Novels
Graphic novels tell a complete story through a combination of illustration art and text.
Graphic Novels: Visual Memoir and Autobiography
Memoir graphic novels are typically written and illustrated by the person telling the story.