What Is Commercial Illustration? And How I Work With Brands

If you’ve ever admired illustrated packaging on a tea box, a beautifully drawn food item in a cookbook, illustrations on a wine bottle or a custom image in a magazine—there’s a good chance you’ve seen commercial illustration in action.

As a freelance watercolor illustrator specializing in editorial and packaging illustration, I collaborate with brands to create artwork that isn’t just beautiful—it’s strategic, emotional, and crafted to connect with their audience.

What Is Commercial Illustration?

Commercial illustration is artwork created specifically to be used in a business or promotional context. Unlike fine art made for personal expression, commercial illustration supports a message, brand, or product.

Examples of Commercial Illustration:

• Product & packaging illustration

• Editorial illustration for magazines or cookbooks

• Illustrations for advertising campaigns or social media

• Branded illustrations for websites or promotional materials

• Surface patterns for home goods or stationery

These illustrations are used to build brand identity, evoke emotion, and attract consumers—while standing out visually in a crowded market.

My Style: Realistic Watercolor & Digital Illustration

I specialize in realistic watercolor illustrations and digital art created in Procreate. My focus areas include:

• Botanical illustration

• Food illustration

• Lifestyle and wellness products

I often combine traditional watercolor with digital enhancements to offer flexibility and high-quality visuals that suit both print and web use.

My Process: How I Work With Brands

Every brand has a unique story. Here’s how I help bring that story to life visually:

1. Discovery & Brief

We begin with a conversation about your project—your brand identity, audience, product goals, and where the artwork will be used. If you don’t have a detailed brief, I’ll guide you through creating one.

2. Sketch & Concept Stage

Once the direction is clear, I share rough sketches or concepts for feedback. This is a collaborative stage where we refine the idea visually before moving into final art.

3. Final Artwork Creation

Using either traditional watercolor, digital brushes in Procreate, or both, I create the final illustration with a focus on detail, realism, and visual appeal.

4. Delivery & Licensing

I deliver high-resolution, print-ready files (CMYK or RGB as needed) along with clearly defined licensing rights for commercial use. I ensure you're fully equipped to use the artwork confidently.

Why Brands Choose Illustration Over Stock Photos

Illustration allows for complete customization, helping brands stand out with visuals that reflect their voice, values, and uniqueness. Especially in industries like:

• Food & beverage

• Natural wellness & skincare

• Lifestyle & publishing

Illustrated visuals are not only eye-catching—they build a deeper emotional connection with audiences.

Ready to Collaborate?

If you’re a brand, creative agency, or art director looking to commission unique, expressive artwork—whether for packaging, publishing, or branding—I’d love to hear from you.

📩 Contact me here to discuss your project.
🎨 Or explore my illustration portfolio to see my work in action.

Let’s create something beautiful and meaningful together.