Whether it succeeds or fails, each project you launch is a stepping stone towards your next idea. Don’t bank so much on the success of one project that you don’t move on to the next one.
Do common things uncommonly well to set yourself apart.
Don’t force every idea to become a cash cow; leave some art just for yourself. You might still make money off of it, but don’t create it for that cause. Focus on the purity of the craft and let other endeavors (artistic or not) pay the bills.
Time spent perfecting your craft is not time wasted, and neither is time spent earning a living. Find the balance and appreciate both pursuits.
Eric asks, “What must I do to get an agent?”
The first step to landing an agent is a killer portfolio. If your current portfolio isn’t attracting any interest, it’s probably time to reinvent it. Commercial, airbrushed work is out and shape-focused, textural work is in. Seek inspiration from Caldecott winners and other illustrators who are finding success.
Before you tackle your portfolio, look for work you like and make master copies of it. This will teach you to problem-solve differently and will open your mind to new ways of approaching familiar subjects.
Bridget asks, “What are your opinions on ageism in our industry as creatives? Have you experienced it at different points in your career?”
Ageism is as much of a problem as you make it. Sure, it might be harder to find a studio job when someone younger, less experienced (read: less expensive), and more tech-savvy is available, but generally, clients don’t care how old you are as long as you create good art.
That said, some illustrators age themselves out of the business by not staying ahead of current trends, updating their style, and improving their skills. You can avoid this by continuing to experiment with new tools (especially modern tools like Procreate), taking workshops, and monitoring what’s popular in the industry. Allow your tastes to evolve, never stop playing, and you’ll age like wine: better and more desirable every year.
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