Igor Bastidas on Illustrating The Guardian's 'You Be The Judge' Column

Venezuelan illustrator Igor Bastidas, based in Brooklyn, has been creating weekly illustrations for The Guardian's 'You Be The Judge' column for three years, marking 156 illustrations. The column presents real-life disputes for public judgment. Bastidas, initially approached by art director Suzanne Lemon in 2023, developed a visual language that balances conceptual and narrative approaches. He emphasizes simplicity and finding the real tension in each story, often moving beyond literal objects to themes like pride or fairness. His style has evolved to include more cartoonish elements, exaggerated anatomy, and playful perspectives. Bastidas strives to remain neutral, approaching both sides with empathy, and finds inspiration in personal memories and absurd stories. He notes challenges, such as illustrating a dispute about water used to warm a mug, and highlights pieces like the shoelace story for their calm simplicity. The weekly rhythm has increased his confidence, and he values the collaborative relationship with Suzanne Lemon, who ensures he takes breaks. The feature was published by It's Nice That on September 7, 2026.