Ave’s: Birds Illustrations by Alexis Marcou

Aves is a series of birds designed by Alexis Marcou with Copic markers and pencil. Markers tend to give flat and bold strokes when working with them so Alexis wanted to give these illustrations a painted look with depth.

He has developed a unique style of art over the years and his techniques combine a mix of traditional methods with the latest digital applications and tools. His style is known for the use of intricate shading and geometric lines using mainly graphite. He has been doing freelance work for clients including powerhouses such as Nike, PepsiCo, Hewlett Packard, Cisco, Atomic Skis, BMW, ESPN, Boehringer Ingelheim and Acco Brands.

Marcou is also known for using improvisations in his work to solve design problems he encounters.

Computer Arts magazine stated, “there’s a visceral quality to Alexis Marcou’s sketch-style illustration work that really speaks to his ability to capture a living moment with his pencil” when discussing Marcou’s style and works. Marcou says his style has “evolved gradually into a more cubic and expressive style.” Another unique style he is known to use is to use makeup brushes to blend graphite and charcoal.