Jeff Östberg’s mellow illustrations of stylish characters and simple scenes

Soft lines and a mellow colour palette are used to portray everyday narratives throughout the work of Swedish illustrator Jeff Östberg.

Working with clients including New Yorker Magazine, Airbnb and Bloomsberg among others, most of his editorial illustrations portray stylish characters in simple scenes and landscapes. Layers of shade and tone are used to create a subtle depth and a subdued, yet impactful, feel.

Growing up in a small town in Northern Sweden, Jeff developed a love for drawing from a young age, influenced by the works of comic artists such as Hergé, Joost Swarte and Vittorio Giardino. "I think growing up in a town like that was important for my process and creativity," he says. "I tend to dream myself away and visualise the things that I want to draw."

Jeff moved to Stockholm in 2008, studying at Konstfack University of Arts, Crafts and Design, where he drew inspiration from music, fashion, travel and the people around him to develop his distinctive visual style.

Discover more about Jeff’s work at his website.

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