Dave Bain creates his illustrations in a number of ways, selecting the best method to suit each project he takes on. Primarily using traditional media, such as painting, drawing, screen-printing and mixed media techniques, he also utilises these methods alongside digital software tools.
He has had the pleasure of being commissioned by a wide range of national and international clients, resulting in an eclectic portfolio of work. Highlights, amongst many, have included painting live on the BBC, drawing on a Nokia TV commercial, creating the artwork for the first illustrated NSPCC mail-out booklet and developing a shoe sole design with Clarks.
The inspirational city of Bristol plays current home to Dave’s studio and has been the source of a stream of engaging commissions. Local institutions, such as Bristol City Council, Bristol Old Vic and Tobacco Factory, have sought out Dave for design, mural and info-graphic work. He has also worked with new initiatives and start-ups, helping establish their identity, as well as taking part in and curating several exhibitions across the city and further afield.
He has been instrumental in the set-up and management of an illustration collective, Drawn in Bristol, part of which has involved running a large studio space, screen-printing facility and opening a number of pop-up shops in collaboration with Made in Bristol and Pop-Up Bristol.
Dave has contributed to a variety of articles and blogs including Creative Review, Digital Arts and CRACK magazines and features in various illustration annuals, and zines. His work has been highly commended by the Macmillan Children’s Prize and several of his illustrations are used as examples of good practice in the book, ‘Illustration – A Theoretical & Contextual Perspective’ written by Alan Male (AVA Academia – 2007), who Dave is proud to have studied under while at Falmouth College of Arts.
