The Muse is explored in issue 20 of Varoom – the illustration report. The Winter issue of the indispensable large format illustration magazine.

While ‘inspiration’ often simply means context-free imitation of style, the true Muse has many sources. Varoom discovers that the Muse is a powerful mix of critical reflection, hard work and love.

Varoom 20 covers Polish illustration; Natural history illustration and the Ghost of Gone Birds project; Irish illustrator Grace Plunkett; street art from the Ukraine; Ted Baker’s project with AOI; the work of Thea Brine and much more. All wrapped up in a cover illustration by Aude Van Ryn.

Varoom can be purchased for good bookshops and AOI shop priced £7. Subscriptions are available, 4 issues for the price of 3, at just £21 (UK)