Lecture Summary: Freelance Illustration Journey of Alex

Introduction

• Speaker: Alex, freelance illustrator
• Background: Worked with clients including Adobe, Apple, Google, MTV, New York Times, Baskin Robbins.
• Connection: Relationship with the lecturer goes back to RISD freshman year.

Early Beginnings at RISD

• First Drawing Class: The lecturer was Alex's first drawing teacher.
• First Day: Lecturer allowed music during class but had specific preferences (no opera or Broadway).
• Tough Love: The lecturer was known for being tough, but it fostered a positive learning environment.
• TA Experience: Alex served as a teaching assistant; described the experience as "Stockholm syndrome" due to the tough love.

Senior Year and Choosing Freelance

• Initial Career Thoughts: Alex initially wanted a salary job as an in-house illustrator.
• Advice from Chris Zelly: Emphasized the need to be proactive to succeed in freelance.
• Decision to Freelance: After receiving client requests, Alex decided to pursue freelance, despite initial fears.

Challenges of Freelancing

• Getting Clients: The hardest aspect is often finding clients and ensuring they come to you.
• Financial Planning: Starting freelance can be financially daunting; initial savings can quickly diminish.
• Lack of Safety Net: Freelancing lacks the stability of regular employment; stress around bills and financial security.

Transition to New York City

• Post-Graduation: Moved to NYC with limited funds; started with a low-paid internship.
• Internship Experience: Worked at a children's app company, initially unaware it was an internship.
• Salary Job: Transitioned to a salary position which allowed savings for future freelance work.

Role of Social Media

• Impact on Career: Social media, especially Instagram, played a significant role in building Alex's presence.
• Viral Moment: A cat illustration led to a significant increase in followers and attracted client interest.

Freelance Work and Techniques

• Software Skills: Alex learned various software on the job, including CGI tools like Cinema 4D.
• Adapting to Client Requests: The importance of being flexible and willing to learn new tools to meet client needs.
• Client Feedback: Feedback can vary; some clients are collaborative while others can be challenging.

Building a Portfolio and Networking

• Cold Emailing Art Directors: Tips on how to approach art directors, including researching and finding their emails.
• Importance of a Strong Portfolio: Not just about quantity but the quality of work; eight strong pieces recommended.
• Networking: Building relationships in the industry is crucial; many illustrators end up knowing each other.

Balancing Work and Personal Projects

• Avoiding Burnout: Switching between different styles and techniques can help alleviate burnout.
• Combining Techniques: Using CGI and traditional methods to create efficient workflows and diverse projects.

Advice for Beginners

• Style Development: Focus on exploration rather than forcing a style; it evolves naturally.
• Starting Point: Don’t worry about not having a style in early stages; focus on process and learning.
• Diverse Skills: Learning to navigate various styles and mediums can enrich artistic practice.

Conclusion

• Ongoing Learning: Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in freelance illustration.
• Final Thoughts: Emphasis on the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and not shying away from challenges.