EXTRACTS: Illustrators issue 28 © 2019 The Book Palace (96 PAGES in Full edition)

55 Laurent Durieux This Belgian illustrator has created some of the most st nning silkscreen posters based on classic movies from this and the past century, working in a method similar to that used in the 19th century — although done digitally, as we learn in this feature by Diego Cordoba. There was a time when in orderto print a drawing or illustration, the only option was through engravings or lithographic prints. However, after the advent of filmsetting (or photo-composition), which was faster and more cost-effective, engravings or lithographic prints weren’t necessary anymore. You would think those old techniques have long been left behind, but you will be surprised to find a 21st century artist whose style might bring to mind those old engravings and lithographs—but this time done on a computer. Belgian artist Laurent Durieux, after spending two decades as a graphic designer and teacher, found his true calling creating some of the most amazing silkscreen movie posters, which have garnered attention all around the world. His climb from near obscurity began in 2011 when he was named among the world’s best 200 illustrators by the influential FACING PAGE: King Kong , silkscreen produced for movie- poster publisher Mondo. The buildings in the background breathe with as much authenticity as the giant creature itself. ABOVE LEFT: Snoopy Valentine’s Day , the first silkscreen Laurent made for Dark Hall Mansion, didn’t meet with great success from the general public, though the Schulz family adored it — and DHM still commissioned further work from him. ABOVE RIGHT: Snoopy Valentine’s Day , variant on the version at left. Laurent just played around by adding snow to his previous illustration. With all these crazy climate changes and global warming, Valentine’s day can pretty much be a snowy day in certain parts of the world!