Jan Meininghaus — Graphic Novel & Comic Illustrator, Germany

Back in 1989, the young German artist Jan Meininghaus was paid DM50 to create the logo for a band, and he hasn’t looked back. Since then, it’s been making rock posters, mag covers, flyers, t-shirts, skate decks, comics, advertising illustrations and storyboards all the way. He’s worked with a whole range of global brands from Audi through to GQ.

Working from his studio in the German countryside, Jan is influenced by American pop culture, the Lowbrow movement, graffiti, concept and fantasy art, taking inspiration from Frank Frazetta, HR Giger, Robert McGinnis, Drew Struzan and Frank Miller. But it’s Jan’s larger than life imagination and deft art skills that are reflected in the original artwork he creates for every client.

Approach

Working with his hands and real materials is what Jan loves best and inks and brushes are his prime media, however he also uses a Mac and is happy delivering artworks digitally.

Styles

Jan works in a range of styles, depending on the brief and his client’s needs. His comic art style ranges from smooth, clean, line-based look through to grittier, graphic novel-style imagery. He’s adept at creating monochrome pencil illustrations, digital painting is a forté, and he’s particularly good when it comes to an airbrushed look. Finally, he has his own brand of acrylic painting, which he often uses for rock n roll cover art.

Client list

Some of Jan’s top clients include FIFA, Netflix, ZDF, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, GQ, Friexenet, McDonalds, Ford and Becks.

Figure walking toward church with red cross in dark scenery by Jan Meininghaus