Illustrator Joe McKendry’s recent projects showcase his range in both narrative thinking and visual storytelling, moving fluidly between historical interpretation, technical explanation, and conceptual portraiture.
For architect David Hacin, McKendry created a series of watercolor illustrations depicting three Beacon Street townhouses across distinct eras:1890, 1930, and 1970. By holding the architecture constant while subtly shifting surrounding details like cars and clothing, the work highlights the passage of time and the evolving character of Boston, emphasizing the endurance of the built environment against a changing cultural backdrop.
In a feature for National Geographic, commissioned by Art Director Jason Treat, McKendry tackled one of Joe’s favorite subjects: Beer! With the growing popularity and improvement of taste in non-alcoholic beers, the magazine wanted to explain for readers how flavor is created in beer, and how alcohol is removed. Joe’s illustrations break down intricate processes spanning chemistry, agriculture, and modern brewing technology. The final gatefold design draws inspiration from vintage beer labels, blending educational clarity with a sense of craft and tradition.
McKendry also contributed to MR PORTER’s 15th anniversary celebration, creating illustrations that reimagined the first clothing purchases of the platform’s top clients. These bespoke works were transformed into high-quality prints, offering a personalized and nostalgic reflection on style and identity, while underscoring McKendry’s longstanding collaboration with the brand.
For The Globe & Mail, McKendry worked with art director Bryan Gee on a conceptual piece charting the evolution of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. He has grown into the role over time, and evolved from someone who seemed less comfortable in the spotlight to becoming a very effective politician. Drawing inspiration from the classic “evolution of man” motif, the illustration avoids literal interpretation in favor of a more nuanced progression capturing Carney’s growth into a commanding public figure through visual metaphor rather than caricature.
See the realized projects below. For more of Joe’s work, visit his Workbook portfolio.
