February 12, 2021 | Sam Gallant
Few traditions in modern journalism carry the same level of intrigue, drama, and tightly guarded mystery as the rollout of TIME magazine’s annual Person of the Year issue. Every single year, the editorial staff at the prestigious and globally recognized periodical embarks on a secretive process, commissioning various acclaimed artists and photographers from around the world to depict a wide range of potential candidates. These creative professionals pour countless hours into crafting striking portraits, yet the ultimate choice remains strictly confidential. In fact, the exact identity of the selected figure is never revealed to the hired artists until the magazine is officially finalized, printed, and ready to roll out to newsstands, storefronts, and subscriber mailboxes across the globe.
For the monumental Person of the Year issue, the magazine tapped renowned Chicago-based illustrator Jason Seiler to create the cover art. This high-profile assignment marked a major milestone in Seiler’s distinguished career, representing the second time he has been chosen to paint a TIME Person of the Year cover. Known for his distinct, expressive caricature style and his remarkable ability to capture both the likeness and the underlying spirit of his subjects, Seiler brought a unique depth to the project. Shortly after the issue made its dramatic debut, Illustration Age’s Sam Gallant sat down with the artist for an in-depth conversation. In their extensive interview, Gallant and Seiler discussed the fascinating complexities of drawing presidents, the artist’s lesser-known passion for drumming, and a wide array of other topics that shed light on the rigorous life of a top-tier commercial illustrator.
The process of creating art for a publication as influential as TIME is rarely straightforward. Artists chosen for the Person of the Year shortlist must work under intense pressure, often producing fully realized portraits of multiple figures without knowing which one will ultimately grace the cover. This high-stakes environment demands not only extraordinary technical skill and speed, but also a deep understanding of political and cultural dynamics. For Seiler, whose portfolio includes striking portraits of numerous world leaders, celebrities, and cultural icons, balancing artistic integrity with the fast-paced demands of editorial deadlines is a familiar challenge. His return to the TIME Person of the Year franchise underscores his standing as one of the most reliable and distinctive editorial illustrators working today.
During their conversation, Gallant and Seiler explored the intersection of fine art and political commentary, delving into what it takes to render political figures in a way that resonates with millions of readers. Beyond his extensive commercial portfolio, the discussion also offered fans a glimpse into Seiler’s personal life and creative inspirations, including his longtime dedication to playing the drums. By blending technical insights with personal anecdotes, the interview provides a comprehensive look at the mind of an artist operating at the very top of his field. As illustrated by the engaging video accompanying the feature, Seiler’s journey from a talented regional artist to a globally recognized magazine cover creator is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the craft of visual storytelling.
