How to Stand Out as an Illustrator: Strategies that Work
Illoguild Question #13
When it comes to getting noticed as an illustrator, the approach can vary depending on the type of work you seek. For me, children's books have been my focus, but I also take on commissions for individuals and businesses from time to time. Regardless of your niche, the key lies in making meaningful connections with potential clients. For children's books, connecting with the consumers is just as crucial, as publishers are more likely to partner with illustrators who have an engaged audience. Here are some strategies that have worked for me and that I hope will be useful and helpful to you.
1. Develop Your Skills and Style:
Invest time and effort into honing your craft and finding a unique artistic style that sets you apart. This process goes beyond the scope of this discussion, but it's an essential first step.
2. Showcase Your Work:
Utilize platforms such as Instagram to share your illustrations, allowing you to showcase not only your art but also your personality and behind-the-scenes processes. Additionally, having a website gives you control over your content and presentation, creating a professional and accessible portfolio. Consider creating a curated one-page PDF portfolio for targeted emails or inquiries.
3. Spread the Word:
Inform anyone who shows even a hint of interest that you are an illustrator. Share this information with friends, family, and even casual acquaintances like a parent on a playdate or an Uber driver. While they may not be your direct market, they might know someone who needs an illustrator or remember you when they do. Building real-world connections helps establish trust, and it's often through these connections that opportunities can arise. In fact, my first commission as an illustrator came from a conversation with a mom during a playdate, leading to the creation of a beautiful children's book.
4. Network:
Attend industry events and conferences to connect and collaborate with professionals in your field. I would also put paid assessments in this category- you pay to meet the right people, and you get valuable feedback on what the industry is looking for and how to improve your illustrations. Also, consider participating in events that support other creatives, such as book launches or art exhibits.
5. Enter Illustration Competitions:
Winning can grant you fantastic publicity, but even participating exposes your illustrations to judges and other potential commissioners. Additionally, it provides new work for your portfolio and content for social media. Keep an eye out for contests on platforms like Instagram or through organizations like SCBWI and ASA.
6. Utilize Social Media:
Regularly share your art on social media platforms. While immediate results may not always manifest, consistent posting allows people to become familiar with your style over time. Use relevant hashtags like #australianillustrator or #kidlitartpostcard to attract potential clients actively seeking illustrators.
7. Cold Emails:
Reach out to potential clients or organizations through personalized emails. Communicate why you specifically want to work with them and be sure to follow up with a second or third email as needed.
8. Job Seeker Websites:
Submit your work to websites where illustrators are sought after. Being accepted into respected platforms like ASA's style file can elevate your status and demonstrate professional validation, opening doors to opportunities like partnerships with traditional publishers.
9. Embrace Opportunities:
Don't hesitate to seize opportunities that come your way. Whether it's an interview request from a publisher or a chance to donate art as a prize for a school or charity, these opportunities can generate exposure and connections. I recently did an interview with ‘kids-bookreview’ you can read it here.
10. Connect with Your Audience:
If you have a published book, actively engage with your audience to foster a strong relationship:
Visit bookstores that carry your book, nurturing relationships and potentially leading to book signings or increased visibility in-store displays.
Ensure your books are available in libraries, submitting necessary forms if your publisher hasn't already done so. Build relationships with librarians and offer to participate in events or have your book read during storytime.
Connect with schools for author visits, starting with personal connections or seeking opportunities through local organizations.
Offer free downloadable activities for kids relating to the book.
Offer your book as a prize where appropriate and consider giving copies as gifts to those who can help promote it to your target audience.
In essence, success as an illustrator hinges on being consistent and leveraging multiple approaches. While I still have a lot to learn on my own journey, I hope you find these insights helpful and glean some beneficial tips along the way. Feel free to share anything you find useful, and let's continue supporting each other on this artistic endeavor
Book Launch
I cant wait to see you at the launch of ‘Mia’s Glamma’ in July.
Sydney - 22 July, 10am, Harry Hartog Marrickville - register here
Brisbane -29 July 10am, Quick Brown Fox Bookshop - register here.
I will be there with the author Josie Montano - we will read the book, answer questions, have kid’s activities and snacks. Hope you can make it!
Visit my website to find out more about the book and how to purchase it.
News
I am currently attending the CYA conference. Its such a well run event and I recommended for children’s authors and illustrators in Australia.
My illustrations are on sale at the incognito art show next week in Sydney. It’s a wonderful charity that donates the proceeds from sales to Studio A and Little Orange - Both are wonderful organisations that enhance the lives of artists with disabilities.
I was a guest at Waverley Library’s school holiday program this week. I read ‘Little Shark Lulu is Sleeping’ to the kids and we did some wonderful ocean themed activities. It was a pleasure connecting with readers in person and I hope to do many more similar events (they have already invited me to do another one). I’ll put the dates on instagram when it’s confirmed.
If you would like to see what I am working on or where I’ll be doing my next reading, follow me on instagram.
I'm so excited to be celebrating my one year anniversary on Substack! 🎊🎉
Through sharing my experiences, I hope to be helpful to others and create a sense of community in what can sometimes feel like a lonely pursuit. I'm grateful for everyone who has joined me on this adventure and supported my writing along the way.
I want to shout out a huge thank you to the Adam Ming for introducing me to this platform - check out his insightful daily newsletter. And also a shout-out to Katie Stack, whose weekly newsletter is always inspiring and gives me so many tips on how to navigate this world.
It's been an absolute joy to connect with like-minded people here and share my journey.
Cheers to a fantastic year on Substack, and here's to many more filled with creativity, community, and continued growth together!
Thanks for reading and being part of this community 😊