Ian Grandjean on the key to evolving as an artist and illustrator

It’s been a while since we last caught up with Los Angeles-based illustrator Ian Grandjean, and the shift in his work is striking. Known for his bold, evocative pieces, Ian’s recent illustrations have taken on a new level of depth, intricacy, and scenic beauty. Reflecting back on what’s changed, Ian can clearly identify the problems. “My pieces weren’t supported by a structure of foundational skills, which resulted in my style having a flatness,” he says. But as his confidence grew, so did his capacity to experiment and hone his “visual language”. This development has allowed him to focus more on what he wants to say through his work, rather than the technicalities of how to create it.

One of the key changes in Ian’s work is his increased focus on scenic, highly detailed compositions. He draws inspiration from the natural world, citing the works of Ghibli background painters like the late Nizo Yamamoto and Kazuo Oga as major influences: “The way these background artists depict dynamic clouds or a detailed mossy forest… I’m looking for a similar sense of beauty, to immerse the viewer into my world.” This immersion, Ian explains, is akin to plating a dish – the way the scene is presented influences the viewer’s emotional experience, giving him freedom to interpret client briefs in fresh, imaginative ways.

When it comes to his current subject matter, Ian’s interests have both evolved and remained constant. “The JCA Annual series is basically my reference bible,” he reveals. The JCA’s influence can be seen in how Ian strives for a balance of technique and grace in his pieces, drawing on artists like Masao Saito and Toshikuni Ohkubo to help simplify and refine complex subjects, such as the way liquid is rendered or how water splashes. While he continues to evolve his style, this aesthetic remains a key reference point, guiding him towards ever more refined expressions.

Reflecting on recent commissions, Ian is particularly proud of his work for Lava La Rue’s album package. “It was the longest and perhaps most rewarding project I’ve done,” he shares, recalling the thrill of seeing his artwork displayed across billboards in London and in Tower Records Tokyo. The experience solidified his ability to work under pressure, producing what he considers some of his favourite work to date. Lately, Ian’s fascination with dramatic lighting and moody scenes has come to the fore. Inspired by Noriyoshi Ohrai’s technique of underlighting, Ian has explored how to “glue” the foreground and background of his pieces, giving them depth and atmosphere. This is particularly evident in his work on Lava La Rue’s Renegade single, where fiery, atmospheric scenes heighten the energy of the music.

Ian’s current project, Dungeon Champ, combines his love for retro fantasy aesthetics with his deep admiration for classic artists like Kow Yokoyama and Moebius. Drawing on world-building techniques from 1980s Japanese commercials, the project embodies Ian’s unique blend of nostalgia and imagination. “It’s a non-existent game,” he explains, “but it allows me to indulge in this retro fantasy gestalt.”

With each new project, Ian Grandjean continues to push the boundaries of his style, creating richly detailed, atmospheric works that immerse the viewer in fantastical worlds. And if Dungeon Champ is any indication, this is only the beginning of the next exciting phase in his creative journey.