Illustration of Boats at a Marina
Illustrator, Designer: John Potter - Escape Key Graphics
Client: Allsports Productions
This illustration was created for the 2016 Stuart Boat Show and was updated for the 2017 show to give it a fresh perspective while retaining the spirit of the original artwork. For the new version, the view was expanded to include additional boats, and a vibrant Florida sky with a bright sun was added to create a dynamic, energetic scene.
The illustration is entirely vector based and was produced in Adobe Illustrator. The process began with hand drawn sketches inspired by photographs I took, which were then refined into the final digital artwork. While the technical process is detailed, the goal is always to preserve the vitality and character of the initial sketches.
This updated version was designed as a double page spread, making it suitable for publication while maintaining clarity and visual impact. It appears in the October issue of Southern Boating Magazine, bringing a lively, colorful depiction of the Stuart Boat Show to readers both in print and on newsstands.
Double page spread revised version of the same illustration used for the Stuart Boat Show 2016. See it here.
VECTOR ILLUSTRATIONS:
(Created using Adobe Illustrator)
VECTOR ILLUSTRATED MAPS:
WHAT DOES VECTOR ILLUSTRATION MEAN?:
Vector illustration refers to artwork created using vector graphics, a computer-based method that defines images through shapes rather than pixels. Each shape is constructed from points along its edges, known as Bézier points, which control direction, curvature, and other attributes. Unlike pixel based images, vector graphics can be scaled to any size without losing resolution, making them ideal for applications where clarity and flexibility are essential. They are also efficient in file size, since a single shape can be defined with just a few points rather than thousands of individual pixels.
While vector graphics provide the technical framework, the style of the artwork is entirely up to the illustrator. In my work, I often use vibrant, tropical-inspired color palettes, bold shapes, and perspectives influenced by Art Deco and Italian Futurism. These stylistic choices create images that are dynamic, eye-catching, and highly adaptable for both commercial and artistic purposes. Unlike photo-realistic images, vector illustrations can be playful, stylized, or even cartoon-like, making them ideal for maps, signage, logos, and other applications where clarity and visual impact are critical.
By combining the technical advantages of vector graphics with a carefully considered artistic approach, my illustrations provide both precision and personality. Whether used for printed materials, digital media, or large scale installations, vector based artwork offers versatility, scalability, and a distinct, memorable look that engages viewers and supports your visual goals.
To learn more about vector graphics see my post... "What are Bitmap and Vector Graphics"
Vector based art created with Adobe Illustrator can be animated using Adobe After Effects to create motion graphics. To learn more see my After Effects and Premiere Pro Portfolio.
PORTFOLIOS:
By Application or Use:
- Boat Show Map Portfolio
- Resort Map Illustrations Portfolio
- Marina Maps Portfolio
- Real Estate Maps Portfolio
- Transit, Parking and Transportation Maps Portfolio
- Town and City Maps Portfolio
- Cover Illustration Portfolio
- Vehicle Wrap & Vinyl Wrap Portfolio
- Illustrated Park Maps Portfolio
- Wayfinding Maps Portfolio
- Proposal Renderings Portfolio
- Street Art