In general publishing, covers often do not directly illustrate the work, and different publishers will often have their preferred artist create a distinctive cover, while reusing interior art. In furry fandom, however, most covers do depict the characters and events of the story. Interior illustrations, if any, are often by the same artist.
This cover is clearly an illustration of the story. As many furry artists aspire to be "illustrators" (perhaps because anyone can claim to be an artist), I can see why Rabbit Valley would prefer to use that term, where appropriate.
In the fine art world, I understand being called an illustrator is almost seen as an insult, which may be how the distinction arose. Furries seem to be more practical, giving respect to the term associated with getting paid on a regular basis.
In general publishing, covers often do not directly illustrate the work, and different publishers will often have their preferred artist create a distinctive cover, while reusing interior art. In furry fandom, however, most covers do depict the characters and events of the story. Interior illustrations, if any, are often by the same artist.
This cover is clearly an illustration of the story. As many furry artists aspire to be "illustrators" (perhaps because anyone can claim to be an artist), I can see why Rabbit Valley would prefer to use that term, where appropriate.
In the fine art world, I understand being called an illustrator is almost seen as an insult, which may be how the distinction arose. Furries seem to be more practical, giving respect to the term associated with getting paid on a regular basis.