Vector illustrations:
The tools of the trade

The tools of the trade, is a series of illustrated objects that are meant to represent a profession in an iconic and recognizable way. In this case, I chose to depict the electrician's trade. After identifying the most representative tools of this profession, I obtained the actual objects to observe them up close. I analyzed their shapes and proportions to capture the essential elements that make them immediately recognizable. Next, I made a series of preliminary sketches, trying to simplify the shapes without losing fidelity to the main details. Once the sketches were completed, I scanned them and imported them into Adobe Illustrator, where I proceeded with vector drawing. This process allowed me to obtain stylized but precise illustrations capable of clearly communicating the essence of the tools and, consequently, of the electrician's profession.

Pencil sketches made for a series of vector illustrations, 2002.
Pencil sketches, 2002.
Pencil sketches made for a series of vector illustrations, 2002.
Pencil sketches, 2002.
Preliminary sketches

In the craft of graphic design, drawing is a fundamental skill that offers great flexibility in visualizing ideas. Through drawing, it is possible to represent concepts in an immediate way, exploring details with greater precision and achieving deeper analysis of shapes and compositions. Often, when we look at perfect and precise vector images, we can fall into the illusion that everything is solely the result of computer work. However, we should not forget that behind a good result and an original idea there are always sketches and preliminary studies made freehand. It is precisely at this initial stage that the best insights take shape, allowing the project to be refined before moving on to digitization.

Vector illustration, done mostly with Adobe Illustrator pen tool, based on various pencil sketches, 2002.
Vector Illustration

After completing the preliminary stage of sketches and scanning them, I imported them into Adobe Illustrator to begin the vectorization process. At this stage, I used the pen tool to transform the hand strokes into clean and precise vector lines, making sure to maintain the original shape and proportions of the objects. Vector drawing through the pen tool, is not limited to simply reproducing the sketch, but also requires synthesis skills and attention to detail development so that the lines are smooth, harmonious and visually dynamic.

In graphic design, the sketch does not have to be perfect, since its role is to serve as a guide for the realization of the final result. It is not essential to create extremely detailed drawings with chiaroscuro effects or shading, since graphic design is an essentially two-dimensional visual language, where clarity and synthesis of forms are more important than pictorial rendering. What really matters is that proportions are acceptably defined and details are clear enough to allow a successful transition to the digital stage.