Illusterenillustreren

Illusterenillustreren is a neologism in the field of visual communication describing an integrated approach that combines illustration and design to convey information and narrative through coordinated text and imagery.

The term blends Dutch verbs illusteren and illustreren, reflecting the dual emphasis on image creation and image-enhanced text. In practice, illusterenillustreren involves aligning illustration style, color, typography, and layout with the rhetorical purpose of the text to support comprehension and engagement.

Common techniques include storyboard-driven layouts, diagrammatic illustration, and image-forced juxtaposition, with sequential panels or annotated imagery to guide the reader.

Applications include educational materials, children's literature, instructional design, and user interfaces where visuals reinforce meaning.

Criticisms emphasize potential for overreliance on visuals, cultural bias, or oversimplification, and the need for close collaboration among writers, illustrators, and designers.

See also visual communication, graphic design, infographic, illustration.