Adrian Keeler

A narrative poster illustration paired with a botanical bouquet illustration. Utilizing floral symbolism, these artworks are intended to work in tandem with each other, as well as individually. The flowers portrayed in these illustrations are Forget-me-nots, Marigold, and Asphodel. Forget-me-nots represent true love and remembrance, especially in regards to passed loved ones. Marigolds in Victorian flower language portray pain and grief, and was thought to ease sadness with its cheerful color. Asphodel is most well-known in Greek myth for its connection with the underworld, death, and mourning, ultimately meaning, “My regrets follow you to the grave.” With these flowers in mind, two illustrations were made to represent the follow-through concept of grieving a lost loved-one.

A narrative poster illustration paired with a botanical bouquet illustration. Utilizing floral symbolism, these artworks are intended to work in tandem with each other, as well as individually. The flowers portrayed in these illustrations are Daisy, Red Gardenia, and Begonia. Daisies are associated with feelings of love, innocence, and new beginnings, and represent a secret between friends, or hidden love. Red Gardenias specifically symbolizes love in secrecy, a silent show of “I love you.” Begonias often resemble caution and consideration, but can also represent a bond with good communication. With these flowers in mind, two illustrations were made to represent the follow-through concept of young lovers meeting in secret.

Gaining inspiration from articles discussing severe wildfires caused by fire suppression, this project consists of a technical botanical illustration and a conceptual narrative illustration. While intended to be a pairing, the illustrations also work as standalone works. Both illustrations include the invasive plant Round-Leaf Bittersweet, which acts as a visual focus both illustrations. This plant was specifically chosen as a response to reading textual information surrounding wildfire suppression, ensuring that the plant’s appearance and behavior resemble that of a literal wildfire.

An illustration inspired by the idea of lovers being buried beside each other after death. Originally a project that explored various ways of representing the human figure in storytelling, this project morphed into specifically portraying the bond and intimacy between two people.

This project consists of four botanical illustrations intended for design and licensing purposes, specifically for mailing stamps. Each illustration is associated with the four seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. The flowers chosen are found in Michigan, either native or common. All flowers were researched for appearance, origin, and growing season. Spring flowers include Golden Alexander, Dwarf Lake Iris, and Apple Blossom (Michigan state flower). Summer flowers include Cardinal Flower, Swamp Milkweed, and False Sunflower. Autumn flowers include Blue Stem Grass, Snakeroot, and Smooth Aster. Winter flowers include Winterberry, Snowdrops, and Winter Crocus.

Winning submission for the 2023 Detroit Grand Prix poster design competition. Combining organic, natural motifs with the geometric, technical aspects of automotive design. The goal was to create a metaphorical meaning with floral design whilst reflecting a clear image of Detroit and its Grand Prix. An abstraction of Detroit’s Renaissance building can be seen in the background, alongside blooming flowers to represent rebirth. Each flower is chosen with intention, considering floral meaning. Sunflowers resemble loyalty and lasting happiness; amaryllis convey determination, pride, and strength; and orange-salmon roses portray enthusiasm and excitement. This floral symbolism felt fitting towards a well-celebrated, annual racing competition.