In today’s visually driven world, Instagram stands as a modern-day gallery, brimming with talented illustrators who use the platform as their canvas. Yet, despite the abundance of creativity, the social media algorithm tends to favor the well-established, making it harder to uncover the rising stars. For art lovers, fashion illustration enthusiasts, and those craving new creative energy, discovering exceptional yet lesser-known talent is no easy feat.
Thankfully, illustrator Niki Groom—better known by her moniker Miss Magpie Spy—has put together an insightful list of 50 illustrators on Instagram who are truly worth your attention. Carefully selected and ranked from those with the fewest followers to the most influential names in the field, this collection spotlights artistry that spans diverse mediums, aesthetics, and cultural influences.
Whether you’re here for minimalist line work, dynamic watercolors, or fashion-forward creations, this list presents a beautiful blend of emerging voices and seasoned pros. And don’t miss out on Niki’s own account, where she masterfully brings fashion, beauty, and art together with her distinctive hand-painted collage style.
Let’s dive into this creative showcase.
Fresh Finds – Up-and-Coming Illustrators
1. Joshua Osborn (531 followers)
Joshua Osborn’s work is the epitome of emotive ink illustration. His compositions are pared down yet poetic, revealing how a single stroke can communicate longing, solitude, or gentle joy. There is an organic flow in his visual language—each piece feels like it was drawn in a quiet moment of reflection, capturing a snapshot of interior thought. His style leans toward minimalism, yet every drawing is layered with suggestion. What makes Joshua’s art especially compelling is its silence; his figures rarely shout, but they stay with you long after you scroll away. He embodies the best of modern illustration: disciplined, elegant, and evocative.
2. Jo Thomas (1,293)
Jo Thomas presents a richly textured digital world that feels like a contemporary mosaic. Her illustrative work bursts with layered color fields, bold compositions, and sophisticated use of pattern. Her style often intermingles fine details with larger visual rhythms, giving each piece a rhythmic sensibility that draws viewers into its complexity. What sets her apart is her ability to combine the flatness of digital illustration with the tactile warmth often found in hand-painted art. Her Instagram feed showcases a robust and polished aesthetic that merges current design trends with timeless visual storytelling. She is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing emerging illustrators today.
3. Nina Fuga (1,440)
With a childlike freedom fused with deliberate artistic control, Nina Fuga’s crayon-based works radiate charm and emotional authenticity. Her illustrations are not only colorful but full of texture and intuitive movement. There’s a whimsical energy to her linework, giving the sense that each figure or shape is breathing or moving slightly, even in stillness. She captures the small, often-overlooked moments in life—an expression, a casual gesture, a quiet glance—with a sensitivity that feels deeply human. In a world where digital illustration often dominates, Nina’s analog, richly pigmented style feels refreshing and nostalgic, yet entirely modern.
4. Marcellus Hall (1,815)
Marcellus Hall’s illustrative lens is set on the city—its inhabitants, its rhythms, and its quiet poetics. His watercolor illustrations depict people mid-action: walking, waiting, lost in thought. Every gesture he captures seems natural, never posed or artificial. Marcellus’s palette is usually muted, reflecting the lived-in hues of urban life, yet his brushwork remains dynamic and intentional. He brings a journalistic quality to his art, one that makes every piece feel like a page from a visual diary. This rare blend of documentation and artistry gives his work a lived, immediate energy that sets him apart from many contemporary illustrators.
5. Alexa Coe (2,086)
Alexa Coe has honed a minimalist style that thrives on negative space and the eloquence of line. Her monochrome figure drawings focus on form, posture, and expression. What might seem simple at first glance is actually imbued with thoughtful design and compositional restraint. Her work is inherently intimate—each figure appears caught in a private moment, inviting viewers into subtle stories told without words. Alexa’s approach strips illustration down to its essential elements, emphasizing the raw emotional language of the human body. She’s one of those illustrators on Instagram whose mastery lies in what she leaves out as much as what she includes.
6. Tracy Turnbull (2,122)
Hyper-realism meets artistic soul in the work of Tracy Turnbull. Her precise, photographic-quality renderings are much more than technical feats—they’re portraits charged with mood, identity, and story. Tracy uses graphite and colored pencil with astonishing finesse, capturing every pore, reflection, and expression with dedication. However, her work transcends mere replication; it reveals a deep understanding of character. The intensity of her gaze, the thoughtful compositions, and the masterful use of light elevate her illustrations to the realm of fine art. As one of the most technically skilled emerging artists today, Tracy deserves far broader recognition.
7. Lyicn (2,910)
Lyicn brings classic glamour into the 21st century. Her illustrations evoke old-Hollywood beauty with their use of graceful lines, smoky textures, and dramatic inking. But this is no retro imitation—her work feels intentionally stylized, as if drawn from a noir film and placed into a modern aesthetic. Faces dominate her compositions, often surrounded by elegant flourishes and subtle fashion details. There’s a moody allure to her style, heightened by a minimal color palette that allows texture and line to take center stage. She merges nostalgia and innovation in a way that feels both luxurious and contemporary.
8. Willa Gebbie (2,932)
Willa Gebbie’s illustrations walk the fine line between fashion illustration and portraiture. She combines quiet linework with muted, dreamy color palettes, creating images that are serene yet full of personality. Her subjects often seem at rest or in repose, exuding a confidence that’s gentle rather than showy. There’s a sense of stillness in her work that’s rare—each piece offers a visual pause, a breath in the scroll. Her aesthetic is refined without being aloof, warm yet polished. Willa’s growing collection of editorial-style portraits is quietly building a reputation for grace, restraint, and sophistication.
9. Lyndon Hayes (4,523)
Lyndon Hayes offers a journalistic eye with an artist’s hand. His sketchbook-style drawings are immediate, unfiltered, and emotionally resonant. With a fast, intuitive line, he captures life as it unfolds—street scenes, passersby, candid moments in travel. The vibrancy of his technique lies in its imperfection; smudges, loose lines, and unfinished areas become part of the narrative. There’s no artifice here—only honest observation and the rawness of presence. His work reminds us that illustration can be spontaneous and unpolished yet still speak volumes. It’s this honesty that makes his artistic voice one to watch closely.
10. Peter Turner (5,608)
Peter Turner brings a classical sensibility to modern pencil illustration. His portraits are deeply considered, often radiating introspection and quiet beauty. With delicate gradients and soft shading, he creates expressive characters that feel simultaneously real and idealized. His compositions are often minimal, allowing the figure itself to carry the emotional weight. What sets Peter apart is his subtlety—his ability to convey feeling through posture, gaze, or the gentle slope of a line. His work is rooted in traditional technique but refreshed through a modern lens, making his feed a calm and enriching space within the often frenetic world of Instagram illustration.
Creative Rising Stars – Artists Gaining Momentum
The realm of contemporary illustration is constantly being redefined by artists who blend tradition with innovation. These rising illustrators are gaining traction not just through follower counts but by leaving a lasting impression with their originality, storytelling power, and distinct visual languages. Their work often reflects cultural moments, shifts in fashion illustration, personal narratives, and deep artistic intuition. As creators who are rapidly building their presence, these individuals represent the exciting edge of what modern illustration on Instagram can be—fresh, expressive, and endlessly inspiring.
11. Stephen Doherty (5,803)
Stephen Doherty’s illustrations are delicate odes to femininity, flora, and the organic dance between the two. With an exquisite command of watercolor, Stephen merges botanical elegance with graceful human forms. His work often begins with a floral bloom and seamlessly transitions into the curve of a shoulder, a profile, or the suggestion of a gaze. The subtle interplay of transparency and form creates an almost ethereal ambiance, giving his figures an otherworldly glow. These dreamlike transitions between nature and portraiture mark his unique contribution to the field of fashion illustration. Each post in his feed feels like a serene breath—a pause in a world often rushed. In an age of over-saturation, Stephen’s work is a visual whisper that gently demands attention.
12. Miss Magpie Spy (7,050)
Known as Niki Groom in the offline world, Miss Magpie Spy carves a niche in fashion illustration by interweaving collage elements, hand-painted figures, and iconic product imagery. Her illustrations read like vibrant diaries of style—merging fashion journalism, beauty storytelling, and traditional craftsmanship into cohesive, standout visuals. Niki’s work is highly narrative, with each composition brimming with energy, elegance, and wit. What elevates her artistry is the layered use of texture, giving the impression of a carefully curated fashion spread. From perfume bottles to poised silhouettes in runway-ready attire, her aesthetic is both playful and precise. She’s a leading voice in modern fashion illustration, where nostalgia and trendiness collide to dazzling effect. Miss Magpie Spy’s Instagram feed offers not just images, but a curated journey into her imaginative and fashion-conscious world.
13. Lauren Tamaki (8,358)
Lauren Tamaki’s style embodies expressive immediacy. Her portraits, often created using ink and watercolor, showcase a mastery of loose, gestural lines that appear unrestrained yet thoughtful. Each composition feels as if it was captured in a fleeting moment—alive, breathing, moving. Her command of dynamic space and negative areas reveals a strong design background, while her subject matter pulses with personality. Whether sketching anonymous figures or editorial commissions, Lauren injects a soul into every stroke. Her work is simultaneously raw and refined, drawing viewers into intimate visual conversations. She excels in making minimal elements sing, offering a masterclass in visual economy. Her Instagram feed is a celebration of spontaneity and character-driven art—unpredictable, delightful, and always resonant.
14. Sally Faye (8,360)
Sally Faye illustrates beauty with a softness that feels timeless. Her color palettes lean toward pastel and earthy tones, creating a soothing visual experience that aligns perfectly with the gentle aesthetics of skincare, fashion, and femininity. Her work embraces the subtleties of facial expression, the play of natural light, and the graceful detail of makeup textures and accessories. Sally’s subjects are modern muses—confident, serene, and adorned with delicate brushwork. What makes her illustrations stand out is the serene pace at which they unfold visually. There’s no rush in her imagery, only careful observation and polished execution. Her feed is not just beautiful; it's meditative—a visual reminder that grace lies in the details.
15. Jason Brooks (9,164)
Jason Brooks is a pioneering name in fashion illustration, renowned for his iconic sleek figures and high-gloss finish. With a career that spans decades, Jason helped define the digital fashion aesthetic during the 1990s and continues to innovate today. His figures are effortlessly elegant, often portrayed in high-fashion poses with an editorial sensibility that never feels dated. The influence of luxury branding is clear in his work, with subjects that resemble models captured mid-stride on a Paris runway. Despite his popularity, Jason remains a vital force in illustration, constantly refining and updating his visual style to align with current trends without sacrificing his signature voice. His compositions are studies in glamour and restraint, turning every drawing into a timeless statement. On Instagram, his posts serve both as inspiration and as a masterclass in visual sophistication.
16. Scott W Mason (9,591)
Scott W Mason merges fashion and lifestyle illustration with an editorial approach that feels as stylish as it is intelligent. His bold ink outlines and vibrant pops of color are unmistakable, but it’s the way he contextualizes his illustrations—often side by side with photos of the original garments—that truly elevates his content. His Instagram is not just a gallery but a documentation of process, concept, and finished product. This holistic storytelling invites viewers into his world, making the artistic experience immersive and tactile. His art walks the fine line between classic draftsmanship and modern fashion branding. Whether sketching streetwear or couture, Scott’s illustrations reflect not only style but culture. His bold silhouettes and confident brushstrokes are matched by his ability to keep his content fresh, stylish, and relevant.
17. Amelie Hegardt (10.1k)
Amelie Hegardt’s illustrations feel like whispered secrets told through ink. Her figures emerge from abstract washes and moody brushstrokes, often appearing as though they’ve materialized from a dream or memory. There’s a sensuality to her work—not overt, but quietly powerful. Her illustrations focus on mood and atmosphere over hyper-precision, inviting interpretation rather than dictating it. Faces and forms are sketched with fluid motion, never fully contained, always slightly dissolving into their surroundings. Amelie’s artistic voice is deeply emotive, merging fashion elements with a painter’s intuition. Her Instagram feed reads like a poetic visual diary—introspective, moody, and deeply personal. Each piece is less about replicating fashion and more about reinterpreting it as emotional gesture. In an industry where sharp edges and polish often dominate, her softness and ambiguity offer a much-needed counterbalance.
Stylists of the Soul – Evocative Character Work
Portraiture is among the most powerful forms of visual storytelling. When done well, it transcends resemblance and reaches into emotional interpretation. The illustrators in this section each specialize in character-driven work—often focusing on the human face, posture, and emotional nuance. These artists do more than depict likenesses; they explore inner landscapes, offering viewers a sense of connection, curiosity, and contemplation. Their unique illustration styles evoke personality and mood, capturing the soul of a subject through expressive choices in line, texture, and composition. They’re redefining how modern portrait illustration feels in the digital era—deeply personal, painterly, and quietly magnetic.
18. Astrid Vos (14.6k)
Astrid Vos’s portrait work is intimate and immersive, consistently centering the face as a portal to emotion. Her subjects radiate quiet intensity—gazing softly, almost as if caught in reverie. Each piece conveys a different nuance of humanity, whether it’s elegance, vulnerability, or an ephemeral moment of joy. Her style combines technical precision with emotional storytelling. Rather than overwhelming her viewer with noise, Astrid allows her subjects to occupy their space with quiet dignity. Her use of color is measured, often muted, allowing skin tones and gaze to do the speaking. It’s a contemplative form of illustration that encourages viewers to stop scrolling and lean in. Her feed on Instagram feels like a gallery of interior monologues expressed visually.
19. Raymond Lo (16.6k)
Raymond Lo’s artwork is rooted in classical drawing traditions yet infused with a contemporary spirit. His pencil renderings are crisp, poised, and impressively detailed, capturing subtle gradients in skin, hair, and shadow. There’s an elegant precision to his technique—one that celebrates patience and discipline. However, it’s his oil paintings, often shared mid-process, that reveal another side of his artistic voice. These pieces are understated yet profound, focusing on light, stillness, and serenity. Watching his progress posts unfold is like witnessing the slow, intentional building of a personality on canvas. Raymond’s work holds a mirror to the soul, elevating realistic portraiture into something contemplative and gently timeless.
20. Dorian Vallejo (18k)
Dorian Vallejo brings a dreamlike lyricism to figure drawing. His illustrations are not bound by strict realism but instead flow with expression and ethereality. Using sweeping gestures and intuitive shading, he evokes movement and mood, as though his characters are drifting in and out of consciousness. Many of his figures recline, stretch, or curl in natural, relaxed poses—gestures that feel captured rather than staged. His work often balances light and shadow in soft, tonal gradients that enhance a sense of intimacy. The emotional resonance of his illustrations lingers, like the sensation of a memory returning unexpectedly. Dorian creates not just drawings, but visual echoes—moments suspended in graphite, pencil, or charcoal.
21. Judith van den Hoek (18.1k)
Judith van den Hoek’s aesthetic fuses minimalism with fashion illustration, resulting in bold, editorial-style portraits defined by clarity and composition. Her lines are clean, intentional, and unmistakably modern. She uses negative space and color blocking to stunning effect, allowing her subjects to emerge in stylish harmony with their backgrounds. Judith’s illustrations often feel like fashion photographs translated into ink—each one refined, poised, and undeniably chic. Her balance of form and fluidity makes her work stand out in both digital and print settings. Whether illustrating models or muses, she reduces the figure to its most essential gestures, emphasizing elegance, structure, and emotional restraint.
22. Stina Persson (23.5k)
Stina Persson is a virtuoso with ink. Her vibrant, colorful works defy convention with an energy that leaps from the page. Her subjects are often women rendered in fluid washes of saturated color, with every brushstroke alive with confidence and spontaneity. She captures the expressive qualities of fashion, mood, and personality with an instinctive hand. Stina’s process videos, which she occasionally shares, are visual poetry—watching color swirl, pool, and bleed into form is a meditative experience in itself. Her art bridges fine art and commercial illustration with incredible fluidity. While many illustrators aim for perfection, Stina embraces the unpredictability of her medium, letting the paint dictate the path. The result is always fresh, evocative, and full of life.
23. Lisa Smirnova (28.6k)
Lisa Smirnova creates richly tactile illustrations that blur the boundaries between drawing and embroidery. Her mixed-media pieces are not just images but experiences—dense with texture, thread, and storytelling. She often combines delicate pencil sketches with elaborate stitching to build portraits that shimmer with detail and dimension. Each artwork feels hand-wrought and profoundly intimate, as though woven from memory. Lisa’s ability to capture the human spirit in fiber and pigment sets her apart in the illustration world. Her color sensibility is nuanced, often incorporating soft hues and warm undertones that give her portraits a sense of humanity and care. She draws attention to the beauty of imperfection, revealing the hand of the artist in every line and stitch.
24. Lucy MacLeod (29.9k)
Lucy MacLeod’s portraits exist at the intersection of romanticism and narrative illustration. Her female subjects often appear dreamlike—imbued with a gentle melancholy, dressed in soft hues, and suspended in painterly space. There is a distinct emotional cadence to her work, something that lingers in the posture of a figure or the shimmer of a background. Lucy uses mixed media to stunning effect, layering watercolor, pencil, and digital enhancement to create an ethereal texture unique to her practice. Her illustrations seem plucked from timeless stories—each one suggesting a backstory, a mood, or a moment just before or after something meaningful. Her characters do not just look at you—they invite you into their world. Her Instagram is a tranquil visual narrative that unfolds piece by piece with grace and subtlety.
Visual Storytellers – Versatility and Vision
Some illustrators shine not only through their technical ability but through their remarkable versatility—the way they glide effortlessly between themes, subjects, and stylistic techniques. These visual storytellers harness illustration not simply to portray, but to narrate, reflect, and sometimes even enchant. Their works function as more than images; they offer immersive stories in miniature, layered with intent, mood, and imagination. Whether crafting whimsical scenes, editorial artworks, fashion-focused illustrations, or large-scale murals, each of these creators brings a unique voice to the visual arts community and elevates the everyday into something enduring and artistic.
25. Caitlin McGauley (32.8k)
Caitlin McGauley paints the world through a lens of optimism, elegance, and cheerful detail. Her watercolors are sun-drenched and celebratory, depicting everything from sophisticated interiors to chic city scenes, statement accessories, and nature-inspired vignettes. There’s a joyfulness in her compositions that feels luxurious but accessible—perfectly balanced between polished and personable. Caitlin’s work has a lifestyle illustration feel, capturing the cadence of curated daily moments like sipping coffee in a Parisian café or decorating a festive table setting. Her brushwork is fluid, with each piece evoking a sense of narrative delight, where color and shape come together to transport the viewer to a beautifully imagined world. Her style is aspirational without being distant—a visual reminder that beauty can be found in the details of everyday life.
26. PichiAvo (35.9k)
PichiAvo is a Spanish street art duo whose monumental murals are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Fusing ancient mythology with vibrant graffiti, their work reinterprets Greco-Roman sculpture through a contemporary, urban lens. Their pieces often depict classically inspired statues layered with energetic splashes of spray paint and modern abstraction, resulting in a stunning juxtaposition of tradition and innovation. Even with a relatively sparse Instagram presence, every image feels like a museum-worthy snapshot, exuding power, reverence, and rebellion all at once. The scale and ambition of their compositions set them apart within the world of graffiti illustration. Their murals breathe life into concrete facades, transforming public spaces into dynamic open-air galleries that blur the boundaries between classical art and modern street culture.
27. Emma Block (36.8k)
Emma Block’s illustrations tell gentle, emotionally nuanced stories often centered on relationships, quiet joys, and the cozy corners of daily life. With soft palettes and approachable characters, her work feels like visual storytelling in its purest form—sincere, whimsical, and comforting. Her figures often embrace, share meals, stroll through nature, or curl up with a good book, exuding an aura of calm and connection. Her technique, often rooted in watercolor and pencil, adds a textural authenticity that enhances the sense of intimacy. Emma's art frequently echoes themes of nostalgia, kindness, and belonging. Whether illustrating for editorial projects, children's books, or her own imaginative narratives, her creations offer a soft refuge from the pace of modern life. Her feed is a gentle reminder that storytelling doesn’t need spectacle—it only needs heart.
28. Tina Berning (36.1k)
Tina Berning’s art is atmospheric, contemplative, and emotionally rich. She moves between mediums with ease—inking loose lines, applying delicate washes, and crafting moody, evocative portraits that hover between abstraction and realism. Her figures often seem caught in introspective moments, as if mid-thought or mid-dream. There's a painterly quality to her illustration style, enhanced by spontaneous brushstrokes and incomplete forms that intentionally leave space for the viewer’s imagination. She plays with layering—collage, transparency, and textural overlays—to infuse her portraits with depth and ambiguity. Tina’s work isn’t afraid to whisper rather than shout. It invites reflection rather than reaction. Each piece feels as though it has lived a quiet life of its own before arriving in her sketchbook. In a digital space crowded with perfection, Tina’s expressive imperfections shine with rare authenticity.
29. Sunflowerman (38.3k)
Known internationally for his fast-paced, impeccably stylish sketches, Sunflowerman documents men’s fashion with a unique blend of energy and elegance. His illustrations are immediate yet polished, capturing tailored suits, polished shoes, watches, and accessories with discerning detail. What sets Sunflowerman apart is his storytelling approach—he travels extensively, sketching fashion shows, pop-up events, and boutiques, often documenting his journey through Instagram Stories. His fluid linework, splashed with bold color, conveys both the structure of fine menswear and the charisma of those who wear it. He is not merely illustrating clothes but exploring personal style as a form of expression. His artistic process is transparent and engaging, making each post both educational and aspirational. Whether you're a fan of fashion illustration or sartorial culture, Sunflowerman brings a refreshing blend of reportage and design.
30. Bil Donovan (41.4k)
Bil Donovan is an institution in the world of high fashion illustration. His compositions are defined by their elegant restraint—figures that float across the page, partially formed yet fully expressive. He leverages negative space like few others, allowing the blank paper to serve as much of a design element as the brushstrokes themselves. Bil’s illustrations often hint at movement: a glance, a swish of fabric, the turning of a head—gestures that evoke style and sophistication without needing excess detail. His fashion figures are long-limbed and luminous, rendered with a confidence that comes from decades of refined practice. Bil’s use of ink and watercolor is masterful, combining painterly fluidity with disciplined composition. Each image is a harmonious balance between suggestion and completion, making his work a study in high-concept visual minimalism. On Instagram, his feed serves as both a showcase of elegance and a tribute to fashion’s ephemeral yet lasting beauty.
Masters of Mood – Signature Styles to Savor
Illustration is not only a visual medium—it’s an emotional one. The following illustrators have mastered the delicate craft of mood. Their signature styles are imbued with intention, intensity, and a deep understanding of how to translate feeling through form. From surreal, narrative-rich images to meticulous realism, these artists sculpt atmosphere with line, light, and palette. Their feeds offer a unique emotional cadence—ranging from bold drama to quiet intimacy—making their contributions to contemporary visual art both magnetic and memorable.
31. Tula Lotay (44.8k)
Tula Lotay’s illustrations exist at the fertile crossroads of sensuality and surrealism. Her work pulses with bold color gradients, layered textures, and dreamlike compositions that oscillate between vulnerability and power. Tula, often associated with the world of graphic novels and sequential storytelling, brings a cinematic flair to her art—figures appear mid-thought, framed in glows of color and drenched in emotional resonance. Her illustrations are narrative without exposition, guiding viewers into enigmatic moments where beauty and ambiguity coexist. There’s often a haunting softness to her portraits, as if her characters inhabit an alternate reality filled with emotion just beneath the surface. The result is a hybrid style that feels both ethereal and deeply human—fine art fused with the visual momentum of comics.
32. Richard Haines (48.7k)
There is a certain spontaneity in Richard Haines’s sketch work that feels unfiltered and alive. A veteran fashion illustrator, Richard’s strength lies in his ability to document stylish moments in real-time, often using found paper, napkins, or notebooks as his canvas. His lines are raw and energetic, capturing the movement and personality of his subjects with minimal, expressive strokes. Unlike heavily polished fashion renderings, Richard’s illustrations embrace imperfection, revealing his deep trust in gesture and intuition. There’s an editorial edge to his aesthetic—he sketches not to refine, but to reveal. Each portrait feels like an overheard conversation turned visual. The immediacy of his process and the unpretentious nature of his medium offer an authenticity that sets his work apart in a world that often prizes precision over presence.
33. Diana Kuksa (50.1k)
Diana Kuksa moves fluidly between digital and traditional media, exhibiting a mastery that gives her hyper-realistic style both clarity and soul. Her portraits shimmer with lifelike detail—from the subtle texture of skin to the glint of reflected light in an eye. Yet, Diana’s work isn’t sterile. What makes it special is the emotion layered beneath the surface: her characters radiate tension, serenity, curiosity, or solitude. She captures not just faces but atmospheres. Her ability to shift between media with such coherence demonstrates a rare versatility—whether painting on canvas or screen, her visual signature remains intact. With her work often feeling like high-resolution photography at first glance, a closer inspection reveals the painterly nuances that set it firmly in the world of fine illustration.
34. Todorovitch (51.6k)
Todorovitch’s oil portraits are studies in emotional realism. Focused almost exclusively on the human face, his paintings exude psychological weight. Every contour, expression, and glint of light seems to echo an unspoken story. His palette is restrained but rich, composed of earthy hues, deep shadows, and radiant highlights that bring flesh and emotion to life with uncanny depth. Todorovitch’s work often feels as if it’s caught between a moment of realization and reflection. While technically impeccable, it’s the emotion within his subjects—the furrow of a brow, the gleam of a tear—that elevates his portraits from impressive to unforgettable. His illustrations do not simply depict—they confront, inviting the viewer into an intimate space of observation and empathy.
35. Manjit Thapp (53.5k)
Manjit Thapp creates visual narratives that explore themes of identity, selfhood, and femininity. Her use of bold outlines, saturated color fields, and introspective characters constructs a unique and instantly recognizable aesthetic. Her subjects—often women in solitary, reflective poses—are drawn with empathy and psychological depth. These illustrations are not passive—they speak. They seem to echo personal truths, cultural commentary, and emotional thresholds. Manjit’s art blends digital clarity with traditional storytelling elements, using symbolism and pattern to deepen the viewer’s engagement. Her style is both contemporary and intimate, effortlessly engaging those interested in narrative illustration, visual culture, and quiet rebellion.
Elite Illustrators – Well-Followed & Fully Brilliant
At the upper tier of Instagram’s illustration landscape are artists whose followings reflect not just reach, but real resonance. These illustrators have established themselves as style icons, visual poets, and creative pioneers. While their recognition may be widespread, their work remains deeply personal, inventive, and emotionally intelligent. Each of these creators maintains a singular vision while continuously evolving their approach, offering fresh perspectives in fashion illustration, narrative art, and digital storytelling. Their visual language is refined, instantly recognizable, and constantly influential in shaping the global art and design conversation.
36. Clym Evernden (55.2k)
Clym Evernden’s aesthetic thrives on spontaneity and sophistication. Known for his distinctively fluid ink drawings, he bridges high fashion and whimsical fantasy with ease. His figures often lean into playful distortion—elongated limbs, oversized accessories, or stylized gestures—yet remain chic and poised. Clym’s signature flourish is a brushstroke that suggests both movement and personality. Whether sketching a runway look or crafting a minimalist urban vignette, his illustrations exude flair. What sets him apart is not just technical agility, but his ability to infuse narrative into the abstract. His work plays with elegance and eccentricity, making his portfolio feel both stylish and spontaneous.
37. Viktorija Semjonova (59.4k)
Viktorija Semjonova injects joy and whimsy into every composition. Her sketchbook-inspired style is loose and colorful, brimming with expressive characters and charming scenes. She often illustrates people in motion or at rest, surrounded by quirky objects or dreamy palettes that emphasize mood and emotion. Her playful touch doesn’t sacrifice depth—each drawing carries warmth, humor, and personality. Viktorija’s illustrations resonate because they feel real: imperfect, spontaneous, and emotionally engaging. Her feed feels like paging through a highly personal visual journal, one filled with stories you didn’t know you needed to see.
38. David Downton (65.9k)
David Downton is a luminary in fashion illustration, celebrated for his refined and evocative linework. With just a few deft strokes, he can conjure the essence of a model, gown, or scene. His portraits are graceful, often ethereal, and balanced perfectly between realism and suggestion. He has illustrated icons of the fashion world, yet his style remains restrained and poetic. Downton is a master of the minimalist gesture—never overworking a drawing, always allowing space for the viewer’s imagination. His work evokes the golden age of fashion illustration while remaining timelessly modern.
39. Miss Led (73.5k)
Miss Led, the alias of Joanna Henly, is known for her beautifully intricate linework and emotionally nuanced subjects. Her portraiture often explores identity, strength, and transformation, rendered through delicate ink strokes and expressive form. Her compositions can be dreamy or intense, minimalist or richly detailed, depending on the message behind the piece. Miss Led’s work often blurs the lines between fine art and editorial illustration, and she regularly incorporates symbolic elements to add depth. With a portfolio that spans murals, gallery shows, and commercial campaigns, her presence is as multifaceted as her art is impactful.
40. Lena Ker (75.7k)
Lena Ker captures fashion through a painter’s eye. Her illustrations are lush, elegant, and cinematic. Working primarily in watercolor and ink, she renders high-fashion looks with sensuous color and a sense of movement that mirrors fabric in motion. Lena’s women exude poise and luxury, often framed in dramatic poses that would be at home in a couture spread. There’s a dreamlike softness to her brushwork that enhances the visual romance of her compositions. Her posts feel curated like magazine covers—each one a moment frozen in time, dripping with style.
41. Damien Florébert Cuypers (76.8k)
Damien Florébert Cuypers captures fleeting moments with vibrant economy. His portraits are quick, vivid snapshots of fashionable figures in motion—executed with pastel, crayon, and a looseness that celebrates imperfection. His style reflects the tempo of the modern world: fast, expressive, and energetic. Despite their speed, his drawings possess an uncanny ability to capture character. You feel the tilt of a chin, the flick of a collar, the boldness of a stare. Cuypers turns the ephemeral into lasting impressions, sketching the heartbeat of contemporary culture.
42. Gill Button (78.1k)
Gill Button’s art is deeply emotive. Her portraits are often bathed in muted tones, featuring faces and figures caught in quiet introspection. She paints with softness and subtlety, layering transparent brushstrokes that give her subjects a ghostly presence—like fading memories or whispered thoughts. Her work feels psychologically rich, often bordering on melancholic, yet never devoid of hope. She explores identity with poetic sensitivity, making each painting not just a visual experience, but a meditative one. Gill’s Instagram is less a portfolio and more an emotional archive.
43. Kelly Beeman (83.8k)
Kelly Beeman crafts scenes that blend fashion, philosophy, and fine art. Her figures are typically women, often portrayed in reflective poses within surreal or minimalistic settings. The style is flat yet richly patterned, allowing her characters to inhabit worlds that feel both symbolic and serene. Kelly’s use of space, gesture, and color is meticulous. Her women are rarely smiling—they gaze, muse, and embody quiet strength. The combination of stillness and story makes her work resonate as something both contemporary and classical. It’s fashion illustration stripped of vanity, replaced with substance.
44. Blair Breitenstein (93.1k)
Blair Breitenstein’s art is theatrical, fast-paced, and packed with attitude. She paints bold, gestural portraits of stylish women with oversized lips, dramatic lashes, and unapologetic expressions. Her brushstrokes are loose and exaggerated, capturing fashion with flair and flamboyance. Blair’s illustrations are instantly recognizable—they celebrate maximalism in an industry often defined by restraint. There’s a raw glamour to her approach, combining immediacy with a strong editorial sensibility. Her work is not just about fashion—it’s about personality.
45. Hsia-Ron Cheng (109k)
Hsia-Ron Cheng creates hyper-detailed digital artwork that mimics the richness of traditional painting. Using Photoshop with painterly precision, she builds complex portraits that glow with soft lighting, flawless textures, and emotional subtlety. Her figures feel cinematic, suspended in moments of contemplation or fantasy. Hsia-Ron’s control of color, shadow, and skin tone rivals that of oil painters, making her digital pieces immersive and tactile. Her work elevates digital illustration into fine art, proving that software can be as expressive as any brush or pencil.
Icons of Instagram – The Big Names Who Still Inspire
These final five illustrators have not only built massive followings but have profoundly influenced the world of visual storytelling through their distinct voices and remarkable contributions. Their popularity isn't just about numbers—it’s a testament to the way their work resonates across fashion, art, pop culture, and digital media. They remain cultural catalysts, continually evolving and redefining what it means to be an illustrator on a global platform like Instagram. These are not just artists—they are institutions, icons, and originators whose vision continues to shape the industry and inspire future generations.
46. Julie Houts (132k)
Julie Houts possesses a rare combination of artistic skill and razor-sharp wit. Her illustrations are often described as satirical commentaries on modern womanhood, fashion culture, and digital life. Known for her handwritten captions and editorial-style layouts, Julie packages social critique in aesthetically appealing formats. Her women are stylish, neurotic, and often caught in hilariously exaggerated situations—whether battling self-doubt in a dressing room or questioning the meaning of productivity. What elevates her art is its dual function: it entertains while provoking thought. Her aesthetic is polished, yet her humor is unfiltered. Julie’s work serves as a visual diary of cultural contradictions, all delivered with an impeccable sense of timing and irony.
47. Meagan Morrison (140k)
Meagan Morrison lives at the intersection of travel, art, and fashion. Her watercolors capture not only the beauty of garments and accessories but the spirit of places and moments. Through rich pigments and sweeping brushstrokes, she invites her audience into sun-drenched markets, stylish hotel lobbies, and global fashion capitals. Her aesthetic is luminous and uplifting—full of vibrant tones and elegant movement. Meagan’s illustrations tell stories that extend beyond the frame, reflecting a lifestyle of curiosity and sophistication. What makes her particularly unique is her ability to infuse wanderlust into every piece, transforming travel and trend into seamless, aspirational narratives. Her account reads like an illustrated travelogue, curated with warmth and creativity.
48. Donald Robertson (183k)
Donald Robertson, affectionately known as "Drawbertson," is one of Instagram's most irreverent and beloved visual personalities. His art is unrestrained, colorful, and infused with a sense of joyful chaos. Whether painting on cardboard boxes, designer packaging, or gallery walls, Donald’s creations radiate spontaneity and wit. His subjects range from iconic fashion figures and pop culture symbols to quirky animals and explosive patterns. With a background in creative direction for global brands, his sensibility blends high fashion with childlike wonder. Donald’s Instagram is more than a portfolio—it’s an ongoing performance, a celebration of playfulness, and a demonstration of how fun and fine art can coexist without boundaries. His posts are unpredictable in the best way, often challenging what “serious art” is supposed to look like.
49. Unskilledworker (234k)
Unskilledworker, the pseudonym of British artist Helen Downie, is known for her haunting, wide-eyed characters and richly layered compositions. Her portraits often look directly at the viewer with a gaze that feels both ancient and otherworldly. Combining traditional techniques with contemporary palettes, her art exudes psychological depth. Her brushstrokes have a tactile quality, as if emotions have been pressed into each layer of pigment. The blend of realism and stylization gives her figures a timeless, mythic presence. She frequently shares live painting sessions, offering her audience intimate access to her process. Her artwork evokes themes of memory, vulnerability, and the feminine subconscious, making her a standout figure in the fine art and illustration worlds alike.
50. Kelsey Beckett (463k)
Kelsey Beckett’s oil paintings straddle the line between classic beauty and modern complexity. Her characters are often surrounded by botanical elements or abstract shapes, with faces that are both meticulously rendered and intriguingly aloof. What truly distinguishes her work is the unfinished quality she sometimes leaves exposed—visible brushstrokes, pencil underdrawings, or untouched canvas. These elements add a powerful contrast, inviting the viewer into the process itself. Her palette is typically soft and luminous, lending her work an ethereal glow. Kelsey’s illustrations often feel suspended in time, capturing both the fragility and strength of her subjects. Her ability to balance polish with rawness creates a compelling visual tension that continues to captivate a global audience.
Final Thoughts
As we close this visual odyssey through 50 incredible illustrators on Instagram, it's clear that illustration today is more diverse, experimental, and globally connected than ever before. These artists offer a kaleidoscopic view of contemporary creativity—spanning analog traditions, digital mastery, fashion-forward narratives, social commentary, and deeply personal storytelling. Each illustrator on this list not only enriches the cultural fabric of Instagram but also reflects how illustration continues to evolve as a vital, expressive form of art.
What sets these creatives apart is not just their technical skill or unique aesthetic—though each possesses that in abundance—but their ability to connect. Through a swipe, a scroll, a simple “like,” they’re building intimate bridges between themselves and their audience. Many of these illustrators peel back the curtain on their process, inviting us into their sketchbooks, studios, and even their emotional landscapes. That transparency fosters community, inspiration, and sometimes, transformation.
In an era where content is consumed rapidly and often forgotten, illustration has the power to pause time. A single well-crafted image can speak volumes—about identity, imagination, fashion, beauty, politics, vulnerability, or joy. Whether it’s the playful boldness of Viktorija Semjonova, the minimal elegance of Alexa Coe, the social satire of Julie Houts, or the ghostly grace of Unskilledworker, each account here is a window into a unique creative universe.
For emerging artists, following and learning from these illustrators can be a deeply motivating experience. For collectors and curators, it offers insight into the next generation of visual voices. And for art lovers of every background, it provides a beautifully curated feed full of color, narrative, and innovation.
Let this list serve not just as a directory but as an invitation—to explore, to connect, and to champion the kind of creativity that Instagram makes so beautifully accessible. In every brushstroke, sketch, or stylized silhouette, there’s a story waiting to be seen.
And remember: amidst all the digital noise, the act of truly seeing art is still one of the most human things we can do.
