Introducing Nathan St John's crisp and impactful work

Nathan St John is an illustrator and designer with a background in architecture, bringing a structured yet dynamic approach to his work. Originally from the U.S., he has lived and worked in London, New York, and now Paris, where he draws inspiration from the city's movement and energy. His bold, geometric style has led to collaborations with major publishers, beverage brands, and even the Monnaie de Paris for the Olympic Games. In this Q&A, Nathan shares his creative influences, dream projects, and the unique perspective that sets his work apart.

What would you say is your best piece of work / collaboration to date, and why? 

My work in a bit diverse so it is difficult to pin down one particular work. I did however really enjoy a recent collaboration with a French company (Kura de Bourgogne) that makes a line of Japanese-influenced products. I created a series of labels for their new range of sake rice wines. I previously did a set of three beer labels for the same company that I also view as one of my stronger collaborations.

Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration? 

To get away from the computer screen and get inspired, I always enjoy walking my dog around Paris. The buzz and activity and visual commotion of cities always generates new ideas.

Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.

I have had the opportunity to do several projects with Solidarités International in their campaign for accessible drinking water in conflict zones. 

What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you. 

My background as a licensed architect (15 years experience in London and New York) and now the unique experience of living as a foreigner in France. 

I think both of these allow me to see my environment differently than if I had stayed in the US and worked as an illustrator from the beginning. 

If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)? 

In the last four years since starting a freelancer, I have book publishers coming back for new cover commissions. I have also had the opportunity to have reoccurring work for drinks companies on beer and sake labels. So basically projects that combine a visual with some graphics and text. 

How would you describe your style? 

Crisp and bold visuals with a focus on geometry and colour.

Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it - something that connects to something meaningful to you 

I would love to create a series of visuals for a major world event like a sporting contest or music festival. I created a series of Olympic medallions for the Monnaie de Paris and was fun seeing them on sale throughout France during the Olympics. 

Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us? 

Recently I have been creating more illustrations on my ipad using Adobe Fresco. These are much more loose and painterly and than the more polished, precise commissioned work I typically do. 

I also have three children’s books in different stages of development.

Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be? 

Bruce Dickinson, the lead singer of Iron Maiden. He’s also a commercial airline pilot, and a world class fencer, and an author, the list goes on and on. I’m not even a bit death metal music fan, but polymaths like him are fascinating to learn about.