Samantha Silverman - Seek and Find Illustrator, Brooklyn

Playful, fun and a tiny bit naïve, illustrations by the Brooklyn artist Samantha Silverman are simple yet beguiling – this is an artist who makes the most of clear, uncomplicated linework and gentle colours to engage the viewer and draw them into a world of youthful, positive vibes.

Sam’s hand-drawn aesthetic gives all her imagery instant appeal, and viewers immediately relate to anything she draws. This rare quality has caught the eye of some of America’s biggest brands, both in print and online. From spot illustrations of pooches to complex maps brought to life by dozens of active characters and hand-rendered textures, a sense of enjoyment abounds in Sam’s projects. Clients love the playfulness Sam’s style exudes and are fascinated to learn that her main inspiration is the children who attend the art classes she teaches. “It’s their wiggly lines, spontaneity with colour and not overthinking the process too much,” explains Sam.

Approach

Loose sketching begins in Procreate before Sam pulls a composition together and tightens up the linework, keeping it clear with just enough doodle-i-ness. Then it’s over to Photoshop where she applies flat pastel palettes, allowing the vibration of the linework to shine through.

Key Software

Photoshop

Style

Minimal, natural and fun, Sam’s illustration has a very human quality to it. She draws in a style that all can relate to, but few can actually achieve in spite of its simplicity.