[Course]illustrator,simzart Details
Intro
Class Intro
Illustrator,
SimzArt
Learn to tell tales through every detail, whether it's character or background, concept or color
From Concept to Completion:
The Structure Behind Storytelling in Art
The Structure Behind Storytelling in Art
Behind every strong, impactful illustration lies more than just an idea. It’s built on technique, structure, and intention, shaped by every decision made throughout the creative process. In this class, SimzArt introduces foundational concepts and workflows, guiding you from your first sketch to the final details with thoughtful, step-by-step instruction.
You’ll explore essential drawing techniques, compositional choices, and how to use values and line weight to create clarity and emphasis in your work. Core concepts like perspective and color theory will also be covered to help beginners build a solid foundation, while experienced artists can revisit the fundamentals with a fresh lens and fine-tune their approach.
By the end of the course, you’ll complete an illustration that reflects a deep understanding of process and gain insights that not only elevate your work, but also help you grow as an artist and navigate the creative industry with confidence.
By the end of the course, you’ll complete an illustration that reflects a deep understanding of process and gain insights that not only elevate your work, but also help you grow as an artist and navigate the creative industry with confidence.
Class Preview
Still Not Sure?
Check Out SimzArt's Class Preview!
Chapter 09.
Creating a Striking Thumbnail
1. Draw thumbnails for your illustration
2. Which thumbnail feels the strongest in terms of storytelling, and why?
Class Perks
Special Gift from SimzArt
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Class Slides and Exercises- All the slides shown during the course
- Practice exercises with examples
- Sample Moodboard
- Reference images for practice -
In-Class Working Files- All original .csp files used during the lessons
- Clean sketches & line art for student exercises
- Instructor demonstration files with time-lapse videos
- Time-lapse of the final illustration process
- Handy cheat sheets to reinforce key concepts -
Brushes and References- x2 Pencil Brushes
- Base Watercolor Brush
- Spatter Watercolor Brush
- Blending Watercolor Brush
- Ink Brush
- Noise Brush
- Airbrush
- Bristle Brush
Expert Illustrator SimzArt's Portfolio
Why Take This Class?
Draw with Clarity, Create with Confidence
This class offers a complete, start-to-finish guide to the illustration process. It’s designed not only to teach essential techniques, but also to help you develop a clear, unique approach to making art. With detailed instruction and hands-on exercises, you’ll build confidence in key areas like composition, perspective, color theory, and more.
What makes this class stand out is the personal insight Simone brings. Shaped by years of dedicated practice and creative growth, his workflow blends technical precision with intuitive decision-making. His perspective offers both structure and inspiration, making this course a valuable resource for anyone passionate about illustration.
If you’re looking for a course that doesn’t just show you how to draw—but teaches you how to think, see, and create with more intention—this is the place to start.
27 Class Exercises Designed by SimzArt
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Moodboard -
Draw From Reference -
Doodle Ideas -
Value Study -
Character Drafts -
Thumbnails -
Sketch Hierarchy
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Emotional Sketches -
Objects in Perspective -
Sketch -
Character Expressions -
Flow -
Textures -
Final Illustration Character Line Art
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Fill Patterns -
Organic vs. Rigid -
Illustration Background -
Color Harmonies -
Lighting Styles -
Color Your Character -
Color-Emotion Challenge
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Light Patterns -
Time-Based Color Shifts -
Color Your Background -
Color Grading -
Complete Illustration -
Portfolio
*Above are sample images for a better understanding
Final Products
Character + Background
Instructor
Illustrator
SimzArt
Hello, my name is Simone, and I'm known in the art world as Simz (or SimzArt). As an independent freelance Italian artist, I specialize in illustration, comics, and character design. My digital illustrations are characterized by their distinctive pencil-like line art and digital watercolor look, often featuring a detailed, slice-of-life, and cozy aesthetic.
My artistic approach was shaped by my experience working with traditional media, including watercolors, pencils, ink, and mixed media techniques. When I transitioned to digital art, I aimed to replicate the visual and tactile experience of traditional art. To achieve this, I developed custom techniques, brushes, and textures that capture the essence of traditional art while offering the flexibility of digital work.
Currently, I use Clip Studio Paint as my primary software, and we'll be focusing on this program throughout our classes. Many of the concepts I'll be illustrating are fundamental drawing principles that can be applied across various art contexts. My goal for this course is not only to teach you how to recreate an illustration in my style but also to equip you with the skills and tools needed to develop your own unique artistic voice.
Illustrator, SimzArt
[Current]
Independent Freelance Illustrator
[Previous]
Webtoon Original Author
Freelance Illustrator
Comic Book Artist
Worked with Riot, Chucklefish, Supercell, PUBG Mobile, Wacom, Celsys, and more
Projects & Awards
[Projects]
- "The Art of Simz" - Artbook published by 3dTotal
- "Pixiv's Visions 2025" - Illustrators Book
- Featured in ImagineFX Magazine
- Created Key Art for Witchbrook published by Chucklefish
- Official Clip Studio Paint Expert
- Collaborated with ASUS, Huion, Xencelabs, Wacom, XP-Pen, Loupedeck, Elgato, and TourBox
Highlights
Class Highlights
Solid Drawing
A strong foundation in drawing is essential to my art process. The elegance of a well-placed line, the striking impact of a beautifully composed image, and the emotions conveyed through simple shapes are all elements that can elevate any artwork. Mastering these fundamentals is key to creating illustrations that stand out and leave a lasting impression.
Fundamental Art Techniques
Mastering the basics of perspective, lighting, composition, flow, and color theory will enrich any artist's skill set and sharpen their creative awareness. These fundamentals are essential when tackling complex illustrations, providing a solid foundation for creating work that feels cohesive and impactful.
Unique Style Development
This class is not just about following a step-by-step process to complete an illustration. It’s designed to be a starting point for developing a unique artistic vision. Special attention will be given to exploring personal style and taste, encouraging creative thinking and experimentation. The goal is to open new possibilities, providing the guidance and tools to help artists discover their own path and build a style that feels authentic and true to their vision.
Class Details
You'll Learn
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Creating ConceptsDefine your ideas or projects, put them on the canvas roughly in a readeable and usable way. -
Basic DrawingLearn or refresh your approach to basic drawing to give your artwork a signature look. -
Character DesignHow to create a character that fit an illustration as if it's part of a bigger world.
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Background DesignMake the background part of your illustration and elevate it adding the right amount of details to be a great storytelling device. -
Basics of LightingCreate an interesting mood, atmosphere and emotional response in your viewers thanks to proper use of light. -
Color TheoryRaise your use of color awareness, and make your artwork stand out.
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Interview with
Illustrator SimzArt
Question.01
Is there a specific reason why you chose this specific topic/themes?
In this introductory course at Coloso, I aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the illustration creation process, covering fundamental concepts along the way. This approach allows beginners to build a solid foundation and become familiar with industry-standard terminology, while those with more experience can gain insight into my unique workflow and artistic approach. The goal is to offer a well-rounded learning experience that encourages growth and sparks creativity, regardless of skill level.
Question.02
What makes your class different from other classes?
This course reflects a process I've developed over my entire life, shaped by my background, personality, and personal interests. My approach may be considered unorthodox or conceptually challenging, but I believe that's exactly what makes it distinctive and refreshing. It's an opportunity to explore a creative process that offers a different perspective. One that’s been refined through years of experimentation and practice.
Question.03
Is there anything else you would like to share with your students?
Art is a timeless form of expression that has been an integral part of human culture since the dawn of civilization. There are no fixed guidelines. Every creator defines their own process, and these rules are subjective and constantly evolving. Embrace individuality, focus on growth, and cultivate self-awareness. Ultimately, the most important measure of success is self-acceptance, not external validation. The creative journey is personal, and it’s about finding confidence in your own path.
Required Programs
This course will use Clip Studio Paint and PureRef.
Please purchase and install these program(s) for an optimized chapter experience.
*These programs and/or materials will not be provided with the chapter.
