Overview

With a highly perceptive and conceptual approach to every project he tackles, Maguma is a Spanish artist who works in a bright, tactile style that harks back to the heyday of illustration in the 1950s and 60s. His great ideas and vast experience make Maguma a joy to work with for his clients.

Based in Madrid, Maguma – AKA Marcos Guardiola Martin – works for a growing number of publications and international brands. Inspired by artists like Moebius and Milano Manara, as well as old adult comics like Metal Hurlant and El Vivora, his pastimes include climbing, cycling and sketching.

Other influences include Jackson Pollock, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Pablo Picasso, and he studied at the School of Architecture in Madrid.

Approach

Although he works digitally, using a Wacom Cintiq graphics tablet and digital painting software, Maguma’s illustrations always have an authentic handmade feel to them.

Style

Maguma’s style will remind you of classic mid-20th century illustration work done in pastel or gouache, and sometimes it looks like a silkscreen print saturated with ink. He strives to give images a tactile quality, inviting the viewer to experience the picture. Strong concepts and colors are also prevalent in his pictures.

Client List

• Maguma has worked for clients including El País, Courrier International, El Malpensante, Yorokobu, Amanuta and Tara Books.