Introduction
As a designer, I have often found myself hitting a creative wall. I can layout a beautiful page, choose the perfect typography, and adhere to a grid system with my eyes closed. But when it comes to adding that extra spark of life—something truly unique that stock photos just can’t provide—I’ve often felt limited. That is exactly why I decided to dive deep into The Futur Greg Gunn – Illustration for Designers. In a world saturated with generic imagery, the ability to craft your own illustrations is a superpower. It allows you to break free from the reliance on overused stock assets and inject genuine personality into your client work.
This course isn’t just about learning to draw; it’s about learning to see and communicate visually in a way that is distinctly yours. Greg Gunn, a Creative Director with a whimsical and vibrant style, guides students through the process of developing a unique illustration voice without requiring prior drawing experience. Whether you are a graphic designer looking to expand your service offerings or a junior illustrator wanting to sharpen your skills, this course promises to bridge the gap between design and art. In this review, I will explore every aspect of the curriculum, from the fundamentals of shape building to the nuances of texture and lighting, to help you decide if this is the right investment for your creative career.
Course Description
The Futur Greg Gunn – Illustration for Designers is a comprehensive digital illustration course designed specifically for designers who want to diversify their skillset. Hosted on The Futur platform, this course moves beyond theory and focuses heavily on practical application. The teaching style is engaging, approachable, and deeply rooted in professional design principles. Rather than teaching you how to replicate a specific artistic style, Greg Gunn empowers you to find your own visual language.
The course is structured around a core project that mimics a real-world client assignment. Students start from a creative brief and move through thumbnailing, sketching, refining, and final rendering. It covers essential tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Procreate, making it versatile for different workflows. Key highlights include a deep dive into color theory specifically for illustrators, techniques for simplifying complex objects into shapes, and strategies for using texture to add depth. The course also includes invaluable resources such as color palettes, layered assignment files, and templates for thumbnails and presentations, ensuring you have everything you need to follow along seamlessly.Ideal Student
- Graphic Designers: Professionals who are tired of using stock photos and want to create custom artwork for their layouts, social media posts, and branding projects.
- Junior Illustrators: Artists who are just starting out and looking for a structured approach to developing their style and understanding the commercial side of illustration.
- UI/UX Designers: Individuals who want to add bespoke icons, illustrations, and visual storytelling elements to their digital products to enhance user experience.
- Brand Identity Designers: Creatives who want to offer illustration as an add-on service to create unique brand assets that stand out in a crowded market.
- Hobbyists and Enthusiasts: People who love drawing but feel they lack the “technical” skills to make their digital art look professional or polished.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a Unique Style: Learn how to identify your visual preferences and subject matter to create a cohesive personal style that sets you apart from other artists.
- Master Shape Construction: Gain the ability to break down complex objects into simple geometric shapes, making the drawing process less intimidating and more manageable.
- Execute a Creative Brief: Understand how to interpret client requirements and develop an illustration from a rough concept to a polished final deliverable.
- Apply Advanced Techniques: Learn professional tips for lighting, texture application, and color grading to add depth and emotion to your digital illustrations.
- Promote Your Work: Discover strategies for sharing your illustrations on social media effectively, moving beyond simple posts to create engaging content that attracts clients.
Course Modules
The curriculum is designed to take you from a complete beginner or intermediate designer to a confident illustrator. It is structured logically, starting with the mindset and tools, moving into the “how-to” of drawing, and finishing with professional polish and presentation. Below, I detail each module and the specific value you can expect to gain from them.
Module 1: Introduction
The journey begins with a solid foundation. In this introductory module, Greg Gunn sets the stage for what is to come. You will get a comprehensive overview of the course structure and what you can expect to learn by the end. A crucial part of this module is the discussion on tools. Whether you are aPhotoshop purist, an Illustrator enthusiast, or an iPad user who loves Procreate, Greg covers the necessary setup for each platform. He also clarifies the distinct differences between graphic design and illustration. Understanding this distinction is key; while design is about communication and problem-solving within constraints, illustration is often about evoking emotion and adding a layer of personality. This module helps you shift your mindset from “layout engineer” to “visual storyteller,” preparing you for the creative work ahead.
- Overview of course expectations and goals
- Tool setup for Photoshop, Illustrator, and Procreate
- Understanding the difference between design and illustration
Module 2: Finding Your Style
One of the biggest hurdles for any creative is defining their style. This module is arguably the most impactful for your long-term career. Greg emphasizes that you should not try to replicate others but rather cultivate your own unique voice. You will explore how to combine your unique visual language with subject matter that interests you. Through exercises and examples, you will learn to identify the common threads in your work—whether it’s your line weight, color choices, or the way you simplify forms. The goal here is to bring all these elements together so your work is instantly recognizable. By the end of this module, you will stop looking at other artists with envy and start looking at your own sketches with a sense of discovery and ownership.
- Identifying your unique visual voice
- Selecting subject matter that resonates with you
- Exercises to cultivate personal style consistency
Module 3: The Fundamentals – Building with Shapes
This is where the technical drawing begins, but don’t worry, it doesn’t feel like a rigid art class. Greg champions the idea that everything can be broken down into simple shapes. In this module, you will learn to look at the world around you—trees, cars, people, furniture—and deconstruct them into spheres, cubes, and cylinders. This technique is incredibly liberating for designers who might feel they can’t draw “realistically.” You will learn that illustration isn’t about capturing reality perfectly; it’s about capturing the essence of an object through shapes. This module includes practical demonstrations on how to build complex objects from scratch, proving that if you can draw a circle and a square, you can draw just about anything.
- Deconstructing complex objects into simple geometric shapes
- Building objects from the ground up using basic forms
- Practical exercises in shape recognition and application
Module 4: The Fundamentals – Stylization
Once you have your shapes, how do you make them look interesting? That is the focus of this module. Stylization is the art of making deliberate choices about what to include and what to leave out. Greg teaches you tricks to stylize objects, giving them character and flair without overcomplicating the drawing. You will explore how design principles—like hierarchy, balance, and contrast—apply specifically to illustration. This is a huge advantage for designers taking this course, as you are already familiar with these concepts in a layout context; here, you learn to apply them to individual characters and scenes. The module covers how to add details that enhance the story rather than cluttering the image, helping you refine your aesthetic.
- Techniques for simplifying and stylizing objects
- Applying design principles to illustration
- Adding detail with intention and purpose
Module 5: The Project – The Creative Brief
Theory meets practice in this module. You are given a creative brief, just as you would be in a real client scenario. This brief outlines a specific problem that needs to be solved visually. Greg walks you through how to read and interpret a brief, identifying the key emotions and messages the illustration needs to convey. This step is critical because it ensures your illustration isn’t just a pretty picture, but a functional piece of communication. You will learn how to ask the right questions (or ask them of yourself) to ensure the direction is clear before you even put pencil to paper. It sets the strategic groundwork for the artwork you are about to create.
- Interpreting client requirements and goals
- Setting the strategic direction for the artwork
- Understanding the narrative behind the brief
Module 6: The Project – Thumbnails and Sketching
This module is all about exploration and iteration. You will learn the importance of thumbnails—small, rough sketches used to figure out composition and ideas quickly. Greg encourages you to produce a high volume of sketches here, emphasizing that the first idea is rarely the best one. You will explore different angles, perspectives, and poses for your subject matter. This stage removes the pressure of perfection and allows you to play. Once you have a collection of thumbnails, you will select the strongest concepts and refine them into more detailed sketches. This module teaches you the workflow of a professional illustrator, where the bulk of the problem-solving happens in the sketching phase, saving you time and headaches later on.
- Creating quick thumbnails to explore composition
- Iterating on ideas to find the best solution
- Refining rough sketches into detailed concepts
Module 7: The Project – Color, Light, and Shadow
Now that the drawing is locked in, it’s time to bring it to life. This module dives into the technical aspects of rendering. Greg shares his approach to color palettes, helping you choose colors that work harmoniously to evoke the right mood. You will also learn about light sources and how to apply shadow consistently to give your illustration three-dimensionality. This isn’t just about making things look “real”; it’s about using light and shadow to guide the viewer’s eye and create focal points. The lessons cover different lighting scenarios and how to handle them digitally, providing you with the tools to transform a flat sketch into a vibrant, dynamic scene.
- Selecting and applying cohesive color palettes
- Understanding light sources and cast shadows
- Using color and light to create depth and focus
Module 8: The Project – Texture and Polish
Digital art can sometimes feel too clean or sterile. This module solves that problem by introducing texture. Greg demonstrates various techniques to add grit, grain, and imperfections to your work, making it feel more tactile and handmade. You will learn about blending modes, layer masks, and brushes that can simulate paper textures or traditional media effects. This final polish is what often separates amateur work from professional work. It adds that extra layer of sophistication and finish that makes an illustration ready for a high-end client campaign. By the end of this module, your project will look complete, cohesive, and ready for presentation.
- Adding tactile texture to digital artwork
- Using blending modes and layers effectively
- Finalizing the illustration with a professional polish
Module 9: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques
Beyond the core project workflow, Greg opens up his toolkit and shares a variety of “pro tips” that can speed up your workflow and enhance your results. This module covers specific lighting tricks that can create drama, techniques like underpainting to establish color harmony early on, and special effects such as glows. These are the nuggets of wisdom that you usually only get after years of trial and error. Whether it’s a shortcut in Photoshop or a specific way to handle line work, these tips are designed to make your life as an illustrator easier and your output more impressive. It’s a treasure trove of technical knowledge that adds significant value to the course.
- Advanced lighting tricks for dramatic effect
- Underpainting techniques for color harmony
- Efficiency tips for a faster workflow
Module 10: Bonuses, Presentation, and Sharing
Creating great art is only half the battle; the other half is getting it seen. This module focuses on the business and marketing side of illustration. You will learn how to present your work to clients in a way that looks professional and gets approvals. Additionally, Greg tackles the ever-important topic of social media. He shares his specific “Instagram posting system,” teaching you how to get the most mileage out of a single illustration. Instead of just posting the final image, you learn how to create process videos, detail shots, and engaging captions that build an audience. The module also includes access to Greg’s favorite tools, books, and resources, ensuring you have a roadmap for continued learning long after the course ends.
- Professional presentation techniques for clients
- Strategies for sharing work on Instagram effectively
- Access to recommended tools and further reading
Real-World Applications and Success Stories
The skills learned in The Futur Greg Gunn – Illustration for Designers have direct applications in the commercial world. Designers who take this course often find themselves able to take on a wider variety of projects. For instance, a brand designer might now be able to illustrate the icons for a custom app icon set rather than outsourcing them. An editorial designer can create custom spot illustrations for articles, making the publication feel more bespoke. The ability to merge design thinking with illustration creates a hybrid professional who is highly valuable to agencies and clients alike. The course teaches you not just to make art, but to solve visual problems with illustration, which is the heart of commercial art.
Success stories from students highlight the transformative nature of this course. Many students enter feeling “imposter syndrome” regarding their drawing skills, only to leave with a portfolio piece they are proud of. Reviews frequently mention the “aha” moments when complex drawing concepts finally clicked, thanks to Greg’s simplified approach. Students have gone on to apply these skills to freelance work, landing clients who specifically sought them out for their unique illustrative style. The community aspect of the course, often mentioned in testimonials, provides a supportive environment where feedback is constructive and motivation is high, mirroring a real-world studio environment.
Pricing
Investing in your education is one of the best moves you can make for your career, and The Futur Greg Gunn – Illustration for Designers is priced competitively within the market for high-quality design education. The course is available for a one-time fee, which grants you lifetime access to the materials. This means you can go at your own pace and revisit the lessons whenever you need a refresher.
- One-Time Payment: $149. This grants you full access to all 40 video lessons, the digital illustration assignment with layered files, color palettes, thumbnail and presentation templates, and any future updates to the course content.
Considering the depth of content, the resources provided, and the potential return on investment through new client work, the price point represents excellent value. It avoids the trap of expensive recurring subscriptions, offering a complete package for a single upfront cost.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No Prior Drawing Experience Required: The course is specifically designed for beginners, making it accessible to anyone willing to learn.
- Focus on Style Development: Unlike many tutorials that just teach you to copy the instructor, this course helps you find your own unique artistic voice.
- Comprehensive Resources: The inclusion of templates, color palettes, and layered files provides a massive head start on your projects.
- Professional Workflow: You learn the entire process from brief to final delivery, which is directly applicable to client work.
- Engaging Instructor: Greg Gunn’s teaching style is encouraging, clear, and entertaining, making the learning process enjoyable.
- Platform Versatility: The techniques are taught in a way that applies to Photoshop, Illustrator, and Procreate, catering to different preferences.
Cons
- Software Proficiency Assumed: While you don’t need drawing skills, you are expected to know the basics of navigating your chosen design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.).
- Time Commitment: To get the most out of the course, you need to dedicate significant time to the exercises and the final project, which might be challenging for those with very busy schedules.
- Style Specificity: While the goal is to find your own style, the techniques taught are heavily rooted in Greg’s geometric and stylistic approach, which may not appeal to those seeking a hyper-realistic or traditional fine art style.
- No Direct Feedback: Unless you join the separate Pro Group or community, there is no direct feedback mechanism included in the base course price.
- Pacing: Some experienced designers might find the initial modules on “shapes” a bit slow, although they serve as a crucial foundation for the later lessons.
- Digital Focus: The course is entirely focused on digital illustration, so traditional artists looking to transition to or incorporate digital media will need to adapt their manual skills to a tablet interface.
FAQs
Do I need to know how to draw to take this course?
No, one of the core philosophies of this course is that you do not need prior drawing experience. It starts from the fundamentals of building with shapes, making it perfect for beginners.
What software do I need for The Futur Greg Gunn – Illustration for Designers?
You need access to either Adobe Photoshop CC, Adobe Illustrator CC, or Procreate for iPad. While a graphics tablet is recommended for better control, it is not strictly required.
How long do I have access to the course?
Once you purchase the course, you have lifetime access. This includes any future updates or additions made to the curriculum.
Is this course suitable for professional illustrators?
This course is primarily targeted at designers and beginner to intermediate illustrators. While professionals might pick up workflow tips, the content is tailored towards those learning the fundamentals and developing a style.
Will I learn how to get clients with this course?
The course covers presentation and how to share your work effectively on Instagram, which helps in attracting clients. However, it is an educational course on illustration skills, not a comprehensive business marketing course.
Can I use the files provided in the course for commercial work?
The templates and resources are provided to help you learn and create your own work. While you can use the skills learned commercially, you should use the provided assets as a starting point to create your own unique designs.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly reviewing the content, structure, and teaching style of The Futur Greg Gunn – Illustration for Designers, it is clear that this is a standout resource for any creative professional. The course successfully demystifies the illustration process, breaking it down into manageable steps that respect the intelligence of the designer while accommodating their lack of drawing confidence. The decision to focus on “finding your style” rather than “copying my style” is the course’s greatest strength, ensuring long-term value for the student.
For graphic designers, this course is an essential skill-booster. It empowers you to stop relying on stock imagery and start creating assets that are 100% unique to your projects. The practical focus on a real-world creative brief ensures that you aren’t just learning how to draw a pretty picture, but how to solve a client’s problem visually. The price point of $149 is a steal for the lifetime access, high-quality video lessons, and the wealth of downloadable assets included.
If you are looking to expand your creative toolkit, differentiate your portfolio, and simply have fun making art again, I highly recommend enrolling in this course. It strikes the perfect balance between technical instruction and creative freedom, making it a worthy investment for your future as a well-rounded creative professional.
