Lee Hodges — Mixed Media Illustrator for Music & Events, UK

Based in Devon, Lee Hodges creates colorful and energetic artwork that gets people excited, which is why he’s the go-to illustrator for clients wanting images dripping with fun and creativity. Hugely inspired by Latin music, rhythm seems to permeate Lee’s work, which is ideal for festivals, events, club nights, cafés and restaurants, music packaging and more.

Originally from Cornwall, Lee studied at Falmouth School of Art then at Bournemouth School of Art, specializing in Illustration. In addition to creating vibrant, mixed media illustrations featuring strange and wondrous characters, he runs club nights across the Southwest of England and his poster work for them caught the eye of new clients leading to his career in illustration. He recently made a boardgame with Clarendon Games, emblazoned with his inimitable artwork.

Approach

Lee uses a range of media including paint and screenprinting, and often cuts out the parts that will make up his characters, paints and assembles them to form his illustrations. His sketchbook is full of doodles, and he also works digitally with a graphics tablet.

Style

Lee’s work is textural and painterly, abstract and vibrant. He’s inspired by Latin American artwork, culture and music. It shows through in his style, which is also influenced by artists like Edward Gorey, Yuri Norstein and even Saul Bass.

Client list

Some of Lee’s clients include WOMAD, Waitrose, Songlines magazine, Clarendon Games, Red Active, Carnibal Records, the Royal Horticultural Society, Scholastic, Rambunctious Social Club and Freshly Squeezed Music.