The word “illustration”, which essentially refers to the visual depiction and explanation of a message, originates from the Latin “illustrare” which means “to illuminate”. Although illustration has existed since ancient times, the origin of the word can be traced back to the illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages that featured intricate depictions and decorations made in gold paint and bright colors, centered around religious themes. A similar approach may be found in Ottoman miniatures. With the advent of the printing press developed by Johannes Gutenberg and the subsequent advancements in printing technology, illustration has continuously evolved into a visual communication field aimed at broader audiences.

Illustrations may be centered around various themes, including humor, satire, sharp commentary, emotional depth, fantasy, politics, entertainment and more, used in diverse mediums such as books, magazines, packaging, posters, animation, board and video games, museums and cultural spaces, as well as scientific publications. The purpose of illustration may include explaining, informing, entertaining, decorating or interpreting subjects, provoking thought, attracting attention and storytelling. Moving beyond simply being a direct representation of texts, illustrations can include differences, contradictions and contrasts, which enhance and deepen meaning of the message. In some cases, illustration serves as a form of visual communication, a solution to narrative problems, a method of record-keeping, and a journalistic tool. Sometimes, it may be seen as an applied art in a commercial context or a means of personal expression in the entertainment industry. Within the field of graphic design, it may be viewed as an element that complements design through images. As can be seen, illustration provides a platform for varied forms of expression across multiple media.

Illustrators are visual communicators who create meaning and convey messages to specific target audiences. At the heart of their creation process lies their personal style, their desire to create and the ability to transform thoughts and emotions into visuals. Text and image are two forms of expression that can reinforce each other and illustrators must effectively utilize the interaction between them. Through their work, illustrators justify the saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words”.

In the 21^st century, illustration continues its evolution. Like all branches of the field of Graphic Design to which it belongs, illustration is influenced by technology and the newer generations that uses it. It has moved beyond merely serving texts to create its own messages with the support of digital tools and technologies. One of the most intriguing aspects of illustration as a contemporary narrative and communication tool is its ability to tell visual stories and create new worlds by combining imagination, creativity and skill while fulfilling its communicative function.

This book will delve deeply into the subject of illustration, exploring the complex relationship between image and text, with meticulously researched chapters prepared by esteemed authors. The publication offers a broad theoretical foundation and a wide range of perspectives. Addressing illustration in the contexts of concept design, digital exhibition design, fantastic illustration, supergraphics, museum experiences, scientific illustrations, infographics, board and video games and the concept of “evil”, the book aims to serve as an engaging, informative and valuable resource for future researchers of the field.