Neighbourhood Notes

As part of the Editorial Playbook programme promoted by Inkygoodness, I selected the briefing “Neighbourhood Notes,” set by illustrator and mentor Adrian Hogan.

The brief was to create an editorial illustration as if commissioned by BRUTUS magazine, a design-literate Japanese title known for observational storytelling, clean layouts, and a refined, human touch. Your piece should capture the texture of everyday life with clarity, intention, and restraint: strong focal point, smart use of white space, and a concise colour palette.

Creative Direction

Audience & Tone: Think curious, culturally switched-on readers. The voice is warm and observant, can be humorous and playful. Composition Lead with one bold, scene-setting illustration. Support it with a couple of crisp moments or three self-contained spot illustrations - clean, clear, and purposeful.

Colour Palette: Keep it tight: three to five colours max. A muted backdrop with lively pops of colour will keep it energetic and striking.

Line & Texture: Draw with confidence. Vary your line weights, let textures compliment your line work. Clarity over clutter so every element reads at first glance.

Editorial / Self iniciated

For this piece, I chose to illustrate a map of a riverside area in my hometown of Barreiro (Setúbal). It is a unique landscape, surrounded by lagoons at the meeting point of the River Coina and the Tagus estuary. Due to the tidal variations, several windmills were built there in the 17th century. Today, two of these windmills have been restored and now serve the community as cultural and educational spaces. The surroundings are beautiful, and it is common to see people enjoying a walk, practicing sports, or simply having a coffee while taking in the stunning waterfront views.