Through their conceptual and creative abilities, commercial artists can challenge cultural narratives and spread a powerful message of change through mass media. We are able to imagine and depict a new reality, creating an image of what can be achieved and, in that way, normalising diversity.
As an illustrator working on corporate and editorial assignments, my personal goal is to include characters of diverse gender and race when depicting a group of people, especially when illustrating office environments, science labs, or people in positions of power. In recent years, this message of diversity has become part of most client briefs. However, sometimes (albeit rarely) it is up to me as the artist to have a proactive conversation with the client or take initiative myself. Regardless of the situation, I have never ended up with a depiction of a few white men around the meeting table (nor did I have major conflicts with any of my clients).
It is important not to pass up opportunities to raise the issue of diversity, to actively contribute towards the goal, and to have a dialogue. Social change will not happen until we are able to imagine it. Fortunately, imagination is the job description of every artist, including a commercial one.
Here are a few examples of inclusive illustrations (more available at www.kata-illustration.com), specifically designed to represent diverse groups of people:
I am interested in broadening the conversation. Feel free to share your personal and professional experiences in the comment section at LinkedIn.