Illustration Illustrators combine personal expression with pictorial representation to convey ideas, from social and political commentary to story interpretation. Their art reaches millions via the internet, newspapers, books, CD-roms, films and advertising. To reflect today's illustration field, students are required to take a digital design course every semester, in order to creatively incorporate traditional media with digital technology. Instructors and guest lecturers are nationally recognized, working professionals.
Students participate in internships during their program of study.
After acquiring an understanding of essential concepts and skills during the sophomore year, juniors choose from electives in animation, book illustration, and advertising and editorial illustration, or from electives in other departments such as Communication Design , Photography , or Product Design . Seniors take a year-long professional workshop that teaches them about portfolio presentation standards and career practices, such as contract negotiations. Parsons prepares those entering the illustration field to develop an individual visual vocabulary and style. Their education culminates in a thesis exhibition that attracts art directors, designers and publishers from a wide variety of well-known media companies and institutions. Please visit the expanded Illustration Department portfolio .