James Provost Illustration

Information Matters.
Communicate it visually.

Specializing in technical & scientific illustration, James Provost Illustration reveals hidden value and evokes new perspectives.

For samples, view the
Technical Illustration Portfolio

Cult of Cars blog Jalopnik has profiled legendary automotive illustrator Yoshihiro Inomoto.

With very little formal training, Inomoto began his career in 1952, long before the convenience and accuracy of computers, working in pencil and acrylic paints. Through his career he created highly detailed cutaway illustrations for Mazda, Nissan, Honda, Ferrari, Bugatti and publications like Automotive Quarterly.

These cutaways peeled away layers of stamped metal to reveal the latest technological developments in the automotive world, as well as inspiring the next generation of automotive engineers and technical illustrators.

Labels: automotive illustration, cutaway, phantom, product illustration, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, February 14, 2009 ·

The Vancouver International Boat Show opens today, so I thought I'd create a micro-site that highlights some of my marine illustration.

I'll be heading over shortly to check out the latest in marine technology and snap a few photos.

Labels: cutaway, instructional illustration, marine, portfolio, product illustration, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, February 4, 2009 ·

New to the site is a phantom illustration of a cordless circular saw featuring the next generation of rechargable batteries. Nanophosphate lithium-ion batteries are said to recharge in minutes rather than hours, have ten times the life cycle and double the capacity of current rechargable batteries.

These batteries are currently being tested in consumer electronics, hardware and automotive applications and are expected on the shelf in the next 18 months. This technology will power products that are greener, more affordable and longer-lasting.

Labels: cutaway, industrial, phantom, portfolio, product illustration

Posted by James Provost, October 20, 2008 ·

I've begun distributing a promo postcard, "Information Matters."

Using controversial subject matter, the taser device, it explores the importance of information, and the clarity with which it can be communicated visually, in compelling and provoking viewers.

The images used on the postcard can be seen (and zoomed) in the technical illustration portfolio.

If you'd like to receive a copy of this postcard, simply fill out this subscription form.

Labels: communication, cutaway, in print, infographics, phantom, portfolio, product illustration, scientific illustration, technical illustration, technology

Posted by James Provost, June 5, 2008 ·

1. The 700 MHz band will be vacated by TV broadcasters
2. Broadcasters will switch to Digital Television (DTV)
3. The 700 MHz band will be used to build a new nation-wide wireless network
4. The new network will have more coverage and faster connections
5. The new network will be open to all devices
6. All devices will be open to third party software
7. The new network will be cost you less

Want to know more? Download the PDF:
7 Things to Know About the FCC's 700 MHz Auction

Labels: communication, creative commons, industrial, infographics, portfolio, product illustration, technical illustration, technology

Posted by James Provost, April 18, 2008 ·

If you use multiple computers during your day, you know that all monitors are not created equally. A computer monitor uses phosphors or crystals to colourize light as it's transmitted through the screen. Depending on the manufacturer's specifications, gradual deterioration of materials and the type of backlight used, the resulting colour can vary significantly. Add ambient light to the mix and you have entered the dogmatic world of color management.



Pantone, the print industry standard for consistent colour, and X-Rite (formerly GretagMacbeth), the leader in colour measurement, have teamed up to create a simple, powerful and affordable tool to calibrate any type of display.

The Huey Pro suction-cups to your display while easy to use software steps you through the 2-5 minute process. The unit measures 22 colour swatches, creating a custom colour profile for true and neutral output. When the process is complete, the Huey rests in a desktop dock to automatically measure and adjust for changing ambient lighting conditions in the room.

Though this is a professional colour calibration tool, its price and ease of use is making the Pantone Huey Pro popular in the Pro-sumer photography market.

Labels: apple, instructional illustration, product illustration

Posted by James Provost, April 4, 2008 ·

Recently completed a cutaway illustration of an 80-foot flybridge megayacht and its cabin.

Technical illustration allows for the communication of a vast amount of visual information. In this case, the entirety of the vessel - inside and out - can be presented in a single image. The quality of design, materials and finishes can be emphasized. At the same time, distracting details such as bilge pumps and thrusters can be diminished or omitted to maintain clarity.

To capture the same amount of information with product photography would require numerous shots from various angles, each diminishing valuable layout space - and more importantly - diminishing the viewer's attention.

Labels: cutaway, marine, portfolio, product illustration, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, March 22, 2008 ·

Made a couple additions to the site: An illustration of Boston Dynamics robotic mule, BigDog, and a spot illustration for Canadian Woodworking Magazine. Also made some minor layout changes and major backend changes that should improve the efficiency of the site.

Labels: portfolio, product illustration, robotics, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, November 10, 2007 ·

My four-month-old Apple Macbook Pro has been experiencing short battery life and random shut-downs while on battery power. I called AppleCare and when I flipped my computer over to provide the computer and battery serial numbers, discovered that my battery was the Magically Expanding Kind.

Apple is replacing the battery free of charge, shipping it to my door and covering return shipping of the dud. Isn't it great when a company admits fault (on behalf of their suppliers, no less) and corrects the mistake?

Labels: apple, product illustration

Posted by James Provost, October 28, 2007 ·

Wired Magazine has published their annual review of the best consumer electronics of 2007. From VoIP phones to vacuums, from camcorders to corkscrews. Be the first to kick yourself for buying the best at twice the price and half the specs six months ago!

Labels: product illustration

Posted by James Provost, October 24, 2007 ·

Many thanks to Charlene for featuring my Camry Hybrid Cutaway Illustration and my website on Illustrophile. My work is in good company on her blog.

Labels: automotive illustration, phantom, product illustration, recognition, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, October 19, 2007 ·

Just added some new work to my illustration and motion graphics portfolios. Good things are happening.

Labels: automotive illustration, interactive, phantom, portfolio, product illustration, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, May 23, 2007 ·

Almost done the lineart. I'll probably start painting the body tomorrow. Four weeks, it's going to be a challenge.

Labels: automotive illustration, product illustration, technical illustration

Posted by James Provost, March 20, 2007 ·

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