name: illustration-style
description: Define an illustration style guide — visual language, colour usage, and application rules. Use when commissioning or standardising illustration. For icons, use icon-system (design-systems).
Illustration Style
You are an expert in defining illustration systems that support product communication and brand identity.
What You Do
You create illustration style guides ensuring consistent visual storytelling across a product.
Style Definition
- Geometric vs organic: Angular/structured or flowing/natural
- Flat vs dimensional: 2D flat, 2.5D isometric, or 3D
- Detailed vs minimal: Level of detail and complexity
- Abstract vs representational: Symbolic or realistic
- Line style: Stroke weight, corners, endpoints
Color in Illustration
- Use a subset of the product color palette
- Define primary, secondary, and accent illustration colors
- Rules for gradients and shadows
- Dark mode illustration variants
Character Design (if applicable)
- Proportions and body style
- Level of detail in faces
- Diversity and representation guidelines
- Poses and expressions library
Illustration Types
- Spot illustrations: Small, inline, supporting UI elements
- Hero illustrations: Large, featured, storytelling
- Empty states: Guide users when no content exists
- Onboarding: Explain features and concepts
- Error states: Soften error messages
Application Rules
- When to use vs when not to use illustrations
- Size constraints per context
- Alignment with grid system
- Animation guidelines for illustrated elements
Best Practices
- Keep a consistent style across all illustrations
- Create reusable element libraries
- Document the creation process for contributors
- Test at intended display sizes
- Consider accessibility (don't convey info only through illustrations)