David Vanadia's bold and minimalist illustrations that fuse graphic design with art

Working with mediums such as engraving, collage or digital, his practice is based around people and philosophy. The "sacred and divine link that unites us with nature" also has a great influence on his work.

"My intention is to reach people through a minimalist graphic approach while trying to incorporate a message," David tells Creative Boom. "I am passionate about the idea that the visual arts can play the role of a universal language, which refers to very primitive, even almost mystical, aspects of human expression. I like to use the term of visual metaphor to describe my work, this translates into graphic games that can stage ideas, concepts or even emotions."

Henri Matisse is another of David's influences. "I admire his work on cutting paper and his way of looking at the ultimate simplification of his drawing and the resulting form." He is also inspired by Geoff McFetridge: "His work fascinates me with the strength of its simplicity and the intelligence of these concepts."

Following graduation from an applied arts school, David spent many years as a graphic designer and later, an artistic director. It was this background that he attributes to the marriage of graphic design and visual arts in his work today. "I like the idea of not having to define the border between the two universes, not having to choose sides," he says.

Currently, David works as a freelance artist and illustrator, collaborating with graphic design studios, advertising agencies and publishing houses, plus creating editorial pieces for media and fashion. Discover more on Instagram.