These Clever Illustrations About Modern Society Will Make You Rethink Your Life

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Unachievable Satisfaction”

Italian designer, illustrator, and self-named “creative mind” Elia Colombo (aka Gebe) believes that “life’s too short to get a real job.” This free-spirited motto led him to where he is today, allowing him to express his thoughts and creativity on a daily basis. He combines his skills in graphic design with his interest in philosophy to create thought-provoking conceptual illustrations. Each colorful, vector artwork illustrates the perils of modern society, and points out relatable feelings and experiences along with a good dose of humor and irony.

Colombo’s themes include societal pressure, mental health issues, and the negative effects of social media addiction. One image, titled Breaking the Rule, illustrates the stages of life as a conveyer belt. Human-like characters are seen passing through each moment—from school, to work, to family, and eventually death. However, one rebel tries to escape, causing a “system error.” Other images illustrate the loneliness that some might experience while immersed in the world of social media, from forever chasing “likes” to the constant upkeep of online personas.

Although Colombo’s portfolio illustrates many negative traits of today’s society, he hopes his work will inspire people to “step outside of the box.” He says, “Don't try to be good, just try to be different!”

You can see more of Colombo’s illustrations on Instagram.

Italian illustrator Elia Colombo creates colorful vector artwork that illustrates themes from modern society.

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Breaking The Rule”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Who Am I?”

His conceptual illustrations point out relatable feelings and experiences along with a good dose of humor and irony.

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Digital Illusions”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Thought Control”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Back To School”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“The Lost Sheep”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“New Followers”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“The Solo Traveller”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Social Workout”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“How Designers Look At Curves”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Culture”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Forever”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“We Can Undo It!”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Read More Books”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Killing Time”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Stolen Identity”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Everyday Mission”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Humanity, A Degenerative Disease”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Feed Your Mind”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Getting A Job”

Conceptual Illustrations by Elia Colombo

“Dream Big, It's Free”

Elia Colombo: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Behance

My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Elia Colombo.

Related Articles:

Thought-Provoking Illustrations Cleverly Visualize Themes of Modern Life

Powerful Architectural Illustrations Visually Interpret Mental Illnesses

Adorably Funny “Before and After” Illustrations That Are Oddly Relatable

Relatable Illustrations Celebrate the Tiny Victories of Realizing You’re an Adult

French Artist’s Comical Illustrations Offer an Honest Look at Motherhood

Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
Become a
My Modern Met Member
As a member, you'll join us in our effort to support the arts.
Become a Member
Explore member benefits

Sponsored Content