Each of Iain Macarthur’s masterful illustrations, created through intricate pattern, depict an animal geometrically.

He describes his own work as:

Surreal and unique in its own way.

Using mostly pencil, watercolours and pigment pens, I create portraits of ordinary people but create them in an unusual way by, embellishing patterns and watercolour effects into the portrait to give a vivid explosion effect—transforming their faces from something plain to something entirely bizarre and wonderful at the same time. – Iain Macarthur

Iain Macarthur Surreal Animal Illustrations Gallery

I am influenced by many artists and illustrators – all with differing styles and mediums – and have turned to their work for artistic stimulation over the years.

Among them are Alphonse Mucha, Gustav Klimt, Lucian Freud, Jenny Saville, James Jean, David Choong Lee, Sergio Toppi and Ashley Wood.

I’ve also gained much inspiration through cartoons art and lighting; people’s facial expressions, eyes and different forms of organic patterns and shapes. – Iain Macarthur