I recently subscribed to Computer Arts, which I had been meaning to do for a while, and I regret having not done it sooner! I went to shelf the Dec 2012 issue and decided to give it another look, and realized I had a few post-it notes throughout. Illustrator Steve Simpson. Obsessed.
Steve Simpson was tasked with creating illustrations that were "Christmassy - but not too Chrismassy" for client, Pepsico. He was commissioned by Art Director Vince Lim. A trusting client / Art DIrection / Illustrator relationship allowed the concept to breathe and become what has won the silver metal at the Association of Illustrators' Images show (and of course be featured in Computer Arts!).
As a whole, the piece is enchanting. The time in the color palette creates a time in the evening which during the winter is like living in a movie. It's fun. It's interesting. It keeps you looking. This scene makes me wish I appreciated NYC more during the holidays. I want to run out and snatch-me-up a pair of ice skates, some ear-muffs and a hot cocoa! I just wish when I get to the ice, lay down on my back, in the snow, John Cusack shows up and we wind up together. Swoon.
All images vincelim.com
You are brought in and see all the interesting characters that fill the scene. The simple color palette, loosely inspired by 7UP's red, green and white color palette, intensifies the scene at both a distance and up close. The detail is incredible and certainly is worthy of any award.