Introducing Will Richardon, GOZO illustrator

To introduce Will Richardson; Northumberland based artist, specialising in illustration and the creative talent behind the joyful GOZO designs.

Creativity runs through Will’s veins. Growing up in a very creative household with parents working in design and marketing, he always knew that he would gravitate towards the creative sector when deciding on a career path.

Following a year of design placements and enjoying the experience of live client commissions, two months into an illustration and animation degree at Kingston University, Will decided a freelance career was preferable to spending three more years studying. It turned out to be the best decision he made. 

Now 22, Will freelances and thanks to the flexibility of iPad technology he’s able to work anywhere.

During his freelance career, Will has had the privilege of working with numerous regional, national and International clients, including : the NHS, Leeds Beckett University, Innocent Smoothies, Boat Magazine, Doncaster and Durham County Councils, Arcus Animation & Wolf and Owl Podcast.

Will has also worked with a multitude of design and marketing agencies on assorted projects for clients that require an illustrative approach. More recently has dedicated time to unique large scale NFT projects in conjunction with independent streetwear brand Solas. Now a proud partner and affiliate of, with big plans for the future of the brand with regards to illustration and fashion.

His style is very versatile and can adapt to client requirements, although core work is illustrating people and characters in all manner of different situations and backgrounds. A style that continues to evolve and develop, influenced by the vintage French ‘Ligne Clair’ style; literally translated means ‘clear line,’. Usually block colour filled with black outline and black block shading, think ‘TinTin’ as reference.

Influential artists that have inspired Will, are Daniel Frost and Vincent Mahe; although states inspiration can come from anywhere.  His constant observation of people in all walks of life, fashion and music create intrigue.

For the GOZO packaging brief Will wanted to personify the experience of enjoying each chocolate flavour through a different character and colourway to depict joy. The resulting brand created is something very different in the crowded chocolate market and will ensure that GOZO really stands out from the crowd.

Will’s ultimate professional aims would be for his illustration style to be immediately recognised as amongst public viewers and clients alike, and to work with the worlds most esteemed global brands.

Find out more and follow Will @willrichardsonillustration on instagram.