The Department of Illustration Histories from the AOI Archive

Illustration Programme at Camberwell College of Arts present The Office for Speculative Landscapes, a dynamic illustration festival at Camberwell Space, blending workshops, performances, talks, and discussions. Reimagined as a hybrid critical-illustration studio and arts-education think-tank, the space will foster experimentation, community, and creative play.

The Illustration Studies Research Group at UAL is pleased to host this opportunity to explore the publishing history of the Association of Illustrators (AOI). The AOI has always endeavoured to provide opportunities to reflect on the role of illustration in contemporary society, alongside promoting the business interests of illustrators. Their publications, such as ‘Illustrators’ and ‘Varoom’, exemplify these commitments and give a glimpse of the rich history of illustration in the UK from the 1970s to today.

We are delighted to have all three editors of Varoom magazine reflecting on their time working with the AOI:

Adrian Shaughnessy (2006-2009)

John O’Reilly (2009-2017)

Olivia Ahmad (2017-2022)

After hearing from the editors, visitors are free to browse the material on display over some drinks. This event will be relevant to anyone interested in illustration and publishing histories.

Biographies

Adrian Shaughnessy is a graphic designer, writer and publisher.

John O’Reilly is a philosopher, writer and academic.

Olivia Ahmad is the artistic director of the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration.

Hosted by Illustration Studies Research Group ISH, UAL

Host or Publisher Camberwell College of Arts, UAL