Everyone is seeing those flat, abstract, colorful characters with oversized, flowing limbs everywhere in advertising today. Two relatable styles are the basis: Corporate Memphis (a postmodern style popular throughout the 1980’s) was revived when Apple changed its visual interface in 2013 (remember when all the apps were super-polished?). And Alegria, (Spanish for ‘Joy’); first developed by Facebook in 2017, featuring flat, minimal, geometric shapes that evoke a type of “universal feel.” These two aesthetics merge in this currently popularized trend, and are used to effectively communicate inclusivity in an increasingly diverse world. Many interpretations of these two styles feature various skin tones and facial features, exemplifying a ‘cultural representation’ that is especially popular in US markets with companies aiming to expand their brand’s reach.
Advocate Art’s advertising illustrators Cinthya Alvarez and Sarah Goodreau exemplify this style, bringing their own unique perspective to it. Incorporating this trending style in your next project is an excellent way to create brand appeal with a fresh, modern, and positive vibe for an ever-increasingly diverse audience.
The ITSme Society is a collective of top creative agencies that represent award-winning talent worldwide. The ITSme Society agencies represent illustrators and writers across 7 agencies: Advocate Art, Astound US Inc, Illo Agency, Artistique, Yeon, CWLA, and Collaborate.
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