Laura Lhuillier

Illustrator

©DOMESTIKA

©Laura Lhuillier

The joyful illustrator

Laura illustrates an imaginary world between dream and reality
She uses digital tools but the final result is like a traditional painting
She’s been strongly influenced by the works of Henri Rousseau

Welcome to the world of Laura Lhuillier, a former graphic designer who turned to illustration in search of creative freedom. It’s a world somewhere between dream and reality, full of colours and joy, populated by wild animals, luxuriant plants and happy people. Laura's illustrations for editorial and commercial clients don’t tell a story, but communicate a feeling of tenderness, sincerity and serenity. The illustrator seeks to share her good mood and legendary optimism with other people. Her studio is based in Lyon, but her inspiration is pretty exotic. Her drawings allow her mind to travel to faraway lands with landscapes that are very different to those of her homeland.

Interview

©DOMESTIKA

©DOMESTIKA

Is there an artist that you admire?: Henri Rousseau. I’ve always been fascinated by his paintings of tropical forests, wild animals hidden behind the vegetation, plants and fruit trees. I love the way he used to add fantastic details to his compositions in order to invite the public into imaginary landscapes.
What’s your technique?: I started with gouache, a technique similar to watercolour, but then I turned to digital tools that facilitate my creative process. By using them, it is easier to erase a mistake or change a detail. Yet, I have developed tricks to recreate the same textures of a painting made with traditional techniques.
How are your illustrations born?: First, I draw a quick sketch on a sheet of paper and then switch to my iPad to redraw the lines. After that, I start coloring on the Procreate application. Lastly, I use Photoshop to refine all the details such as colours, textures and composition.
When was a memorable moment in your career?: In 2021, I was contacted by Frankie Magazine and asked to design the cover of their May/June issue. I’ve always been a big fan of the Australian magazine, so it was a dream for me to see my work featured on the cover! It was a kind of a validation for my professional efforts.

Laura Lhuillier is a rising star: she began her career in 2018 and she started teaching in 2021