Illustration practice is not judged purely by visual literacy and technical qualities, but also requires intellectual engagement with its subject matter. Illustration: A Theoretical & Contextual Perspective, 2nd Edition examines the breadth and many uses of this diverse discipline, through nearly 300 colour examples.

From developing a brief, conducting research and analysing visual language, the book goes on to explore the role of illustration in documentation, commentary, storytelling, persuasion and identity. It concludes with an overview of current professional practice, demonstrating that the ability to communicate meaningfully and effectively for a global audience is key to navigating today's creative industries.

Examples of work from award-winning illustrators showcase a huge range of applications, from the author's own collaboration with the British Museum of Natural History and Olivier Kugler's Portraits of Syrian Refugees in Iraqi Kurdistan, to Levi Pinfold's fictional picture book Black Dog and Malika Favre's promotional images for the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) Film Awards.