Wonderworks Communications talks to award-winning artist and art director Clym Evernden. Named by The Evening Standard as one of ‘London’s most influential people’, we talk about his creative process behind Courvoisier's Prestige Collection illustrations.

What do you love about working with luxury brands, and how does your experience with iconic names like Hermès, Rolls Royce, and Louis Vuitton influence your approach to collaborations?

“I've always had a natural interest in luxury brands, stemming from my background in fashion design at Central St. Martins. Fashion, with its intricate design processes and thematic interpretations, instilled in me a deep understanding of how to translate a brand's essence into visual storytelling. Whether it's conceptualising a theme or envisioning its presentation in a retail environment, this familiarity allows me to quickly grasp a brand's DNA and visualise how it fits into my artwork.

Luxury brands offer a unique opportunity for creativity, and my experiences with names like Hermès and Louis Vuitton have honed my ability to interpret brand identity through design. Each collaboration presents new challenges and inspirations, enriching my artistic process.”

Your signature ink-based style has become synonymous with luxury brands globally. How do you ensure that your work not only captures the essence of a brand but also resonates with its fans, creating a meaningful connection between the art and the audience?

“Simplicity is key. I believe in the power of authenticity, allowing my natural style to shine through in each piece. Whether it's a large-scale campaign or social media artwork, maintaining a consistent essence of life and energy in my work is paramount. This approach ensures that my art not only reflects the brand's identity but also engages with its audience on a personal level, fostering a genuine connection.

There's a freedom and vitality inherent in my line work that I feel resonates with Courvoisier. I want my work to be light-hearted, joyful, and fun, very much like the spirit of joie de vivre that is inherent to the brand. My scenic illustrations reflect a sense of movement and flow, particularly evident in depictions of the river Charente that runs alongside Maison Courvoisier. Growing up, my fascination with nature deeply influenced my artistic expression, whether that’s capturing the play of sunlight or the fluidity of water. It’s gratifying to translate these natural elements into artworks that enrich each expression in The Prestige Collection and portray the lush environment surrounding Maison Courvoisier.”

Let’s dive into your creative process and look at how you brought your unique style to Courvoisier's Prestige Collection. How did your visit to Maison Courvoisier in Jarnac inspire the illustrations, capturing not only the tasting notes but also the history and Soul Place of this iconic brand?

“My visit to Maison Courvoisier was a profound source of inspiration. Immersing myself in the brand's rich history and heritage allowed me to capture its essence in my illustrations. Exploring the archives and experiencing the unique atmosphere of Jarnac provided invaluable insights into the brand's Soul Place, its artisans and the history and heritage of The Prestige Collection.

I wanted each illustration to be a visual narrative, weaving together tasting notes, historical elements, and the vibrancy of Courvoisier, creating a multi-dimensional story that leapt off the page.”

Courvoisier's Prestige Collection comprises XO, XO Royal, Extra, and L’Essence de Courvoisier. Can you share which expression from the collection is your favourite, and what specific elements or nuances drew you to it during the creative process?

“L’Essence de Courvoisier holds a special place for me. It’s a luxurious experience, from the tasting notes to the design, and it resonates deeply with me. The exquisite bottle, exceptional quality and unique heritage make it a standout expression – truly the treasured jewel of The Prestige Collection.

However, I also appreciate XO Royal for its accessibility and versatility. Each expression in The Prestige Collection offers unique qualities that contribute to the overall narrative, making it challenging to pick just one favourite.”

Your recent projects, showcase your ability to tell unique stories through your art. For Courvoisier, what part of the brand's story resonates with you the most, and how did you weave that narrative into your illustrations for The Prestige Collection?

“The rich history and joie de vivre embodied by Courvoisier resonates deeply with me. Incorporating elements of the brand's legacy, such as its involvement in the Belle Époque era, into my illustrations allowed me to create a narrative that celebrates both tradition and modernity. When visiting the archives at Maison Courvoisier, I was reminded of the brand’s enduring presence in people's lives over many decades, fostering a deep sense of enjoyment and togetherness.

Reflecting on this heritage, juxtaposed against the modern brand, each illustration become a visual journey, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the story of The Prestige Collection while appreciating its timeless appeal.”

Let’s step away from the art for a moment – with your busy schedule, what's your favourite cocktail to unwind with and celebrate a successful collaboration?

“I do a lot of travelling for work, and there’s no better way to unwind than with a Margarita! While I've explored various cocktails throughout my career, the vibrant flavours and celebratory nature of a Margarita make it the perfect choice to mark a successful collaboration.”