UK based illustrator Jonathan Burton has a body of work that is refined and classic. His pieces are smartly executed, designed with an affinity for vintage illustration.
In 2013 Burton took on BAFTA’s nominees for best film in a series of illustrations that showed the beauty and depth of each film while putting his muted color palette and deft touch on display. It’s a series of images that give the films they depict an elevated air of importance.
His take on Ben Affleck’s ‘Argo‘ is a wordless retelling of the impossible tasks the film’s characters fought against. It’s a wonderfully staid portrayal of the quiet suspense that Affleck’s film achieved.
Burton’s ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea‘ poster for Belgium’s Nautilus Art Prints is a throwback to the first images drawn for Verne’s 1870 novel by Alphonse de Neuville. Burton’s ‘20,000 Leagues‘ is full of adventure and excitement — thrill and danger.
That print shows the hallmarks of Burton’s work — a combination of insight and intelligence coupled with an appreciation of text and history.
‘Les Miserables’ by Jonathan Burton for the 2013 BAFTA Awards
‘Argo’ by Jonathan Burton for the 2013 BAFTA Awards
‘Less Valued Knights’ book cover by Jonathan Burton
‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ Regular Edition by Jonathan Burton
‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ Variant Edition by Jonathan Burton
‘Freindship’ illustration for New Scientist Magazine by Jonathan Burton
Drawing for ‘Woodwose’ illustration for Fortean Times by Jonathan Burton
‘Woodwose’ illustration for Fortean Times by Jonathan Burton
‘Woodwose’ illustration for Fortean Times by Jonathan Burton
For more of Jonathan Burton’s work check out these handy links —
Nerdlocker Interview with Jonathan Burton for his ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ poster