This curated selection of illustrations showcases virtuosic technique that helps to create extraordinary figurative images – some could almost pass for a photograph.

Jim Tsinganos‘ illustrations for the Australian String Quartet use photoreal portraiture, transformed into record covers and promotional material using colour overlays.

This series of illustrations by Sojung Kim-McCarthy to promote the film Minari. Digitally created, the aesthetic captures a vintage Americana feel, combined with that of the Asian immigrant experience.

This sleek, stylised image by Matt Murphy created for Nationwide conveys the message that even if we’re independent, we are not alone.

Lauren Fletcher‘s university project uses a cast of diverse characters to send a message of being proud of who you are.

Kidyang‘s detailed infographic imagines the unfinished Golden Pagoda in Bangkok, Thailand in a completed state.

Abi Deniz‘s illustrations for Camus’ La Peste have a particular relevance in relation to the pandemic. Using detailed black and white figurative drawings and intensely lit colour illustrations, this series conveys the content of Camus’ ideas in a highly visual way.

Valentyna Kuzmyk uses figurative imagery and overlaid maps in greyscale on a 15th Century inspired steel blue background, with chalky white highlights to create a series of illustrations evocative of historic sea voyages.

This alternative poster design for the film Falling was commissioned by Little White Lies and Modern Films. Amy Leonard uses an elegiac Americana look and muted colours to convey the film’s emotional centre.

Hyunjung Yi‘s university project for a film poster for Night Encounter uses the view of the rear view mirror to show the character’s disorientation through alcoholism.

IC4Design‘s luminous illustrations for a children’s puzzle book uses photoreal light and enhanced colour to create a seductive landscape for the reader to explore.