In graphic design, illustration work can take many forms. A popular style is pixel art, which evokes a sense of nostalgia. This style endures not just for its retro appeal, but because its abstraction from reality remains recognizable and relatable. Below is my take on pixel illustration.
My friends and I used to dream about cohabiting in a grand mansion together during our retirement years. In 2017, we fast-tracked that dream into reality by investing in five units within a new development in Columbia City, Seattle. The developers called it "Empire Square," which we embraced as our own namesake, embarking on this new chapter as neighbors.
Below are illustrations of our Empire, which I created pixel by pixel in Photoshop, inspired by the Pokémon video games of my youth. There's a unique version for each changing season. See if you can spot all the differences!
Below are some closeups to show more detail. Can you spot the differences?
Photos I referenced to create this illustration:
