Stumble it!
How to get your first illustration job.
- Draw, draw, draw.
- Paint, paint, paint.
- Build a portfolio.
- Put your work out there.
- Rinse and repeat.
Honestly, that’s all there is to it. The problem is, you will probably fail the first time around. In fact, you will probably fail the first several times around. The key to this whole process is the “repeat” part. You have to find it in yourself to go through this process again and again and again. It’s not for lazy or the feint of heart.
But the fact is, if you keep going and continue working to get better, you will eventually start creating great artwork. And if you continue to show off your artwork, it will eventually get noticed. And if you get noticed, someone will eventually give you a job.
So, remember this: go through the process. DO NOT skip a step. DO NOT stop creating new artwork. And DO NOT quit.
That’s my simple post for today. Nothing groundbreaking or new, but we all need a reminder sometimes.
What’s your secret to success? Leave feedback, questions, and comments on this post at DaniDraws.com. Thanks for reading!
Entries (RSS)
June 12th, 2007 at 9:06 am
Thanks. As an aspiring illustrator this post gives me hope.
June 12th, 2007 at 10:44 am
Once thing I remember also is that sometimes you have to do some free stuff, even if it’s for a charity or as a volunteer. The more exposure you have the better. Tutorials are another great way to get exposure.
June 12th, 2007 at 10:58 am
How do you recommend showing off your artwork?
Postcards, Blogs, and Online portfolios I’ve seen others do. Are there any others your recommend?
June 13th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Oh no, the secret’s out!
I think I’m on round 3 or 4 of this cycle. I’m sure I’ll lose count at some point. Thank you for the reminder that these are the steps no matter what.
Ok, Back to the drawing board (literally).
June 14th, 2007 at 6:49 am
Angie, I would most definitely do all of the things you mentioned. The important thing is that you’re consistent - if you send postcards, send a new one periodically; if you have a website, update it regularly; and if you have a blog, post often.
It’s also good to meet with the art directors personally if you can, either through appointments or at conferences, events, etc.
For further reference, here are some art marketing blogs I’ve found:
http://www.livingthecreativedream.com/
http://businessofdesignonline.com
http://www.artbizblog.com/
June 14th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Inspirational post Dani! I just left my job last week and I am dedicating myself to making it as a illustrator full time now. thank you!
June 17th, 2007 at 2:58 am
Dani,
You are a God send. Thank you very much for blessing us with the info that you given. I’ll check out the links later. Again, thank you very much.
June 22nd, 2007 at 8:51 am
Dani,
Thank you for the link to BoDo: Business of Design online.
I also thank you for pointing me to Living the Creative Dream as it’s a great resource (and one I’ll keep checking back on).
Alyson from the Art Biz Blog I know from way back when I featured her on Designers who Blog. Yeah, it’s a small world
July 9th, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Hmmm, I agree with the idea behind this, but #4 seems a bit vague for the new illustrators out there. Maybe a good idea for a new post going over this in depth?
Great site BTW.
July 16th, 2007 at 1:03 pm
I was blessed enough to be able to get 2 jobs from my first 2 mailings. I completely agree with your list. No one will know you’re out there unless you let them know you’re there!!
I will be sending out a new card soon!
Thanks again!