Reportage illustration is a drawing practice that encompasses a lot of different types of work, but it can be defined as the process of drawing on location with the intent to capture a story. Subjects are very varied, and while we associate reportage with war illustration, all types of live events and news stories can be covered through it. The visual journalist works mainly to bring to light unique human insights, from the people featured in their artworks. Due to the limitations of drawing on location, the style in reportage drawings is often sketchy, fluid and dynamic, as the artists rushes to create an accurate impression of what they see. The outcome of this process is distinct from journalistic photography, and both have their place within journalism.

As someone who enjoys working on location, this project was a very interesting dive into a practice I was unfamiliar with. I think many of the drawing techniques that reportage illustrators employ should be considered by anyone trying to further their location drawings. Their methods of research set also a valuable example in how illustration can bring people’s stories to light, and be a tool for human connection via storytelling.

Conclusion