http://www.inkincillustration.co.uk (all the amazing images used on this page are from this website and were created by Laura and Jess, please go and check out there work by clicking on the link)
I thought it would be a good idea to try and get some advice from professional illustrators/designers. So I thought of Laura Fray and Jess Turley, successful illustrators based in Manchester that run a shop and sell a number of illustration based products, from framed pictures, postcards, cushions and a lot of other products. Im a huge admirer of there style of work and the way they produce work.
I visited there studio and they kindly answered a few questions I had and gave me some great advice ! which I really appreciate. Im going to summarise what they told me below (not word for word).
1) what inspired you to first start drawing / take up illustration ?
Both Laura and Jess come from creative backgrounds. What I found interesting was that they both came from fashion/printing/textile backgrounds. They both had interest and enjoyment in drawing and decided to try and pursue a full time career in illustration working as a team for themselves, rather then at a fashion studio or business. They've used what they know from fashion to aid them on there way to becoming successful illustrators.
2) Can you explain your creative process ?
They explained in some detail how they go about creating their illustrations and ideas. Explaining that they don't often do lots of research before hand and instead use their own initiative and imagination when it comes to creating drawings. So if they think an idea will work or look good they can then go ahead to sell that or use it. Similar to myself in the way they use Photoshop and other adobe programmes. They didn't know how to use them straight out of uni and have learnt more by getting used to them through trial and error and learning for themselves. I found that really encouraging as I always get in the mind set you have to know how to use them fully and if you don't you can't be as successful. They are proof you can. The main process of creating work is usually coming up with an idea, using fine liners to draw out the idea and then use the computer to edit and refine the image.
3) Do you ever get creative slumps ? how do you combat that ?
This answer did make me laugh as they suggested "drinking wine". They explained as they have become busier they don't get into that mindset as much and manage time and what they need to do more. They are always doing something so when it comes to drawing they treasure that time and enjoy it.
4) Whats the best bit about being an illustrator ?
They both explained the best bit was being their own bosses and having the freedom to create what they wanted and when they wanted. They don't earn as much money as they previously did, but they are happy doing what they do.
5) Have you found it difficult to become professional / any tips for someone trying to make it professionally ?
- Finance/learning about cost - they both said they didn't really know much about costings, how to price things, or much about running a business. They've both learnt as they've gone along.They mentioned holding an exhibition showing there work that went quite successful and that gave them the kick and inspiration they need to pursue an illustration career.
- Experience - get experience in something related, it doesn't always work out where you can just get an art job and sometimes you have to get something related or a job where you can use that experience to further yourself
- Social media - Use Instagram, Facebook, twitter and attend events. get your name out there and showcase your work.
