These hand-drawn mixed-media illustrations were created for Wellpet, a Japanese pet food company. Due to Japanese regulations, food ingredient depictions for pet products must use illustrations rather than photographs. I developed detailed, realistic artwork showcasing the fresh, wholesome ingredients used in their products.
The Challenge
- Client Requirement: Only illustrated depictions of food ingredients were allowed.
- Objective: Make the illustrations realistic and appetizing while staying compliant.
- Approach: Blended colored pencils with digital enhancement to achieve a vibrant, hand-crafted yet polished finish.
The Process
For Wellpet Japan, I created a series of mixed-media ingredient illustrations used as medallions on pet food packaging. Because Japanese regulations require illustrations instead of photos, each composition was designed like a small still life, highlighting proteins, vegetables, fruits, and grains in a fresh, appetizing way.
I combined colored pencils, watercolor washes, and digital refinement to achieve realistic textures and vibrant colors that stayed clear even when scaled down. The illustrations unified the product line, adding warmth and authenticity while meeting regulatory and branding requirements.
Outcome / Impact
The illustrations were successfully integrated into Wellpet’s packaging as ingredient medallions, helping the brand meet Japanese regulatory requirements while maintaining a premium, trustworthy look. Despite being scaled down in size, the artwork retained clarity and detail, ensuring consumers could quickly recognize the quality ingredients.
This project enhanced Wellpet’s shelf presence and brand storytelling, giving the packaging a warm, artisanal touch that distinguished it from competitors. It also demonstrated my ability to balance creative artistry with commercial objectives, delivering work that was both visually appealing and strategically functional.
Application
