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Tutorial on Creating Retro-Futuristic Geometric Illustrations Using Adobe Software

digital · 2026-03-31

A tutorial was published on Abduzeedo, demonstrating how to produce retro-futuristic geometric illustrations with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. The author, who is learning the style, drew inspiration from artists Justin Mezzell, Matthew Lyons, Dan Matutina, and James White. The process began in Illustrator by constructing compositions with vanishing points, perspective, and geometric forms in grayscale, followed by applying a color palette influenced by Mezzell's work. Dimensionality was added through hard shadows, subtle gradients, and elements like clouds and angular cars, with reflections noted as a key detail. In Photoshop, effects such as diffuse glow, angled strokes, and mezzotint filters were applied to enhance texture, along with adjustments like desaturation and layer blending to create grain and lighting effects. The tutorial emphasized a simple walkthrough for beginners, encouraging experimentation and sharing of results. No specific date or location was provided, but it serves as an educational resource for digital art techniques, highlighting trends in retro-modernist design.

Key facts

  • The tutorial focuses on creating retro-futuristic geometric illustrations.
  • Artists Justin Mezzell, Matthew Lyons, Dan Matutina, and James White inspired the style.
  • Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are the primary software tools used.
  • Techniques include using vanishing points, perspective, and geometric forms.
  • Color palettes and hard shadows are key for achieving the desired effect.
  • Photoshop effects involve filters like diffuse glow and mezzotint for texture.
  • The author encourages learners to experiment and share their creations.
  • The tutorial is available on Abduzeedo's website.

Entities

Artists

  • Justin Mezzell
  • Matthew Lyons
  • Dan Matutina
  • James White

Institutions

  • Abduzeedo

Sources