Drawing illustration

BOOKMARK ILLUSTRATION COMMISSION BRIEF Project The Borrowed Room Purpose Create an original black and white illustration for a bookmark inspired by the themes of a new Scottish theatre production. The artwork should feel authentic, literary, reflective and quietly queer rather than commercial or overtly political. Final Format • Bookmark • 55 mm × 180 mm • Portrait orientation • Black and white artwork • Suitable for printing on cream or ivory card stock • High resolution print ready file (minimum 300 dpi) • Vector format preferred but not essential Concept A young man stands alone on a rocky Scottish shoreline looking out to sea. He is holding a worn paperback book loosely at his side. The figure should feel thoughtful and reflective rather than posed. The image should evoke: • Memory • Belonging • Masculinity • Desire • Discovery • Freedom • Possibility The artwork should suggest someone imagining a different future rather than looking back with regret. Figure • Approximately 18–22 years old • Athletic but natural build • Not bodybuilder physique • No exaggerated muscles • Wearing simple swim shorts • Barefoot • Viewed from behind or three quarter rear view • Face not clearly visible • Relaxed posture • Book held naturally in one hand Environment • Rocky Scottish coastline • Sea horizon visible • Minimal detail • Large areas of negative space • No dramatic waves • No boats • No buildings • No modern objects Art Style Seeking a style inspired by: • Vintage literary illustration • 1970s and 1980s queer bookshop ephemera • Editorial pen and ink drawing • Physique magazine illustration traditions • Classic monochrome line art The image should feel as though it could have been discovered inside a well read paperback purchased from an independent queer bookshop decades ago. Please avoid: • Cartoon styles • Anime styles • Comic book styles • Digital fantasy art • Heavy realism • AI generated appearance • Explicit nudity • Sexual acts • Pin up poses • Camp aesthetics Mood Quiet. Intimate. Reflective. Hopeful. The image should feel personal and private rather than public or performative. Reference Feel Imagine a bookmark hidden inside a much loved novel for many years. The owner carried it between homes, cities and relationships. It has become meaningful because of what it represents rather than because it is expensive or decorative. Deliverables • High resolution PNG • High resolution PDF • Source file if available • Black and white version suitable for professional printing