JacketFlap connects you to the work of more than 200,000 authors, illustrators, publishers and other creators of books for Children and Young Adults. The site is updated daily with information about every book, author, illustrator, and publisher in the children's / young adult book industry. Members include published authors and illustrators, librarians, agents, editors, publicists, booksellers, publishers and fans. Join now (it's free).
Login or Register for free to create your own customized page of blog posts from your favorite blogs. You can also add blogs by clicking the "Add to MyJacketFlap" links next to the blog name in each post.
Blog Posts by Tag
In the past 7 days
Blog Posts by Date
Click days in this calendar to see posts by day or month
Viewing: Blog Posts Tagged with: escape from illustration island, Most Recent at Top [Help]
Results 1 - 7 of 7
How to use this Page
You are viewing the most recent posts tagged with the words: escape from illustration island in the JacketFlap blog reader. What is a tag? Think of a tag as a keyword or category label. Tags can both help you find posts on JacketFlap.com as well as provide an easy way for you to "remember" and classify posts for later recall. Try adding a tag yourself by clicking "Add a tag" below a post's header. Scroll down through the list of Recent Posts in the left column and click on a post title that sounds interesting. You can view all posts from a specific blog by clicking the Blog name in the right column, or you can click a 'More Posts from this Blog' link in any individual post.
Episode 14 of the Escape From Illustration Island Podcast features an audio interview with Holli Conger, Children’s Illustrator and author of the influential blog Living the Creative Dream, where she outlined her year-long process of breaking into the Illustration field and starting her own business. Together we discuss her origin story as a creative professional, her experiences in working with an art rep, the benefits of joining and creating critique groups, and how you can learn from your mistakes and achievements as an artist.
Here are links to some of the things mentioned on the show:
Twitted by MattiKemppainen said, on 12/2/2009 2:40:00 AM
[...] This post was Twitted by MattiKemppainen [...]
uberVU - social comments said, on 12/2/2009 2:43:00 AM
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by Illo_Island: EFII Podcast Episode 14 – Holli Conger: http://wp.me/pw2a6-C5...
Matti Kemppainen said, on 12/2/2009 4:01:00 AM
Great episode. I have heard Holli on o a couple of podcasts now and she is always insightful. This critique group thing sounds like a great idea. Kind of like a collective but less connected style wise.
Gonna see if I have any links i can add to the list :)
Julissa Mora said, on 12/2/2009 8:26:00 AM
Another great episode Thomas! And thanks to Holli for sharing all her tips. I especially like what she said about forming a critique group. I’ve been searching the net for one and haven’t been able to find anything, so I’m glad she talked about it and how to start one. :)
Thomas James said, on 12/2/2009 9:05:00 AM
Thanks, Matt. I’m always looking for more resources for the library.
Holli was a great guest and brought a ton of quality content to the table in our conversation. I’m extremely grateful for her contribution.
Amanda Crawford said, on 12/2/2009 11:33:00 AM
Hi Thomas,
Thank you (and thanks to Holli, too!) for another inspiring and helpful conversation. I was particularly interested in her revelation that a potential rep won’t necessarily care so much that you don’t have a long client list…. this is something that I have been considering but dismissing because of this very concern!
Thomas James said, on 12/2/2009 2:15:00 PM
Hi Amanda,
I too was surprised and inspired by Holli’s story. It’s very encouraging. Thanks for the feedback!
Holli Conger said, on 12/2/2009 2:31:00 PM
Thanks for all the nice comments here, twitter and via email guys!
Yes. i too have reconsidered the rep route because of this interview. I figure at the very least I can find out what they’re looking for so I can bring my work up to par. That would make me more competitive with or without a rep.
Thomas James said, on 12/3/2009 6:53:00 AM
Good point, Nate. It’s also good to remember that reps are looking for the same things in your work as Art Directors are, so communicating with an art rep can be very rewarding.
November was another great month at Escape From Illustration Island.
Not only was there a lot of valuable content added to the site, but the activity of visitors and community members nearly tripled since last month. Thanks to all who participated, and congratulations to November’s Community Member of the Month, Melanie Matthews, for joining the EFII community and adding to the quality of the website. As a small token of gratitude, I’ll be offering Melanie an official Escape From Illustration Island coffee mug from the EFII Zazzle store.
Melanie’s colorful Illustrations can be found at bearprints.com.au. Also be sure to check out her engaging and insightful blog, The Bookish Owl.
In case you missed anything, here are some of the best additions to EFII in the month of November:
The Return of the EFII Bookstore, with new additions and a more intuitive interface.
The New Community Page to help new visitors find out how to participate.
EFII is an amazing community and such an invaluable website for illustrators. Thank you for all your efforts in compiling such a great collection of resources and bringing all of us illustrators together!
Episode 13 of the Escape From Illustration Island Podcast features an audio interview with Kevin Cross and Joshua Kemble of the Big Illustration Party Time Podcast. Together we discuss the madness behind their methods, their reasons for podcasting, eureka moments, and the concept of Illustration trends.
Here are links to the some of the things mentioned on the show:
Listen to Episode 39 of the Big Illustration Party Time Podcast for Part 1 of a long overdue crossover with Kevin Cross and Joshua Kemble, where we discuss the changing nature of the Illustration business, alternative revenue streams, consulting, and more.
Part 2 of the crossover will be released as Episode 13 of the EFII Podcast on Tuesday, November 17th.
For those who REALLY want to geek out, let me just point out the mystical nature of the Episode numbers: 39 for BIPT and 13 for EFII. 13 fits into 39 three times, and we all know that 3 is the magic number.
Tweets that mention Escape From Big Illustration P said, on 11/11/2009 12:42:00 PM
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Jose Anibal Gonzalez and jeffcrowther, Collin Lenzen. Collin Lenzen said: RT @Illo_Island: Escape From Big Illustration Party Island Time: http://wp.me/pw2a6-wf [...]
uberVU - social comments said, on 11/11/2009 1:00:00 PM
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by Illo_Island: Escape From Big Illustration Party Island Time: http://wp.me/pw2a6-wf...
Listen now or Ctrl-Click to Download - TS-290774.mp3
Episode 12 of the Escape From Illustration Island Podcast features an audio interview with Krishna Sadasivam, creator of the webcomics PC Weenies and Uncubed. Together we discuss his history with webcomics, his teaching and upcoming speaking engagements, his experience with getting banned from UStream, and the dangers of art theft. I also announce the winner of the signed copy of The Graphic Eye by Stefan Bucher, as well as the latest exciting developments at EFII such as the new Community page, Share Your Illustration, and 7 Elements of an Effective Portfolio Website.
Here are links to some of the things mentioned on the show:
The PC Weenies. Tech Webcomics for Geeks, and the said, on 11/10/2009 6:17:00 AM
[...] I was interviewed by Thomas James on theEscape from Illustration Island podcast. Go ahead and give it a [...]
Tweets that mention Episode 12 – Krishna Sadasiv said, on 11/10/2009 6:48:00 AM
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Jerzy Drozd and JoshKemble, Krishna Sadasivam. Krishna Sadasivam said: RT @Illo_Island: EFII Podcast Episode 12 – Krishna Sadasivam (@pcweenies): http://wp.me/pw2a6-uF [...]
uberVU - social comments said, on 11/10/2009 6:56:00 AM
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by Illo_Island: EFII Podcast Episode 12 – Krishna Sadasivam (@pcweenies): http://wp.me/pw2a6-uF...
Bigeyes said, on 11/10/2009 12:43:00 PM
I really enjoyed the interview. And I really appreciate to know I’m not the only one who learns from mistakes! Those mistakes and errors makes you stronger anyway.
Great job with your interviews!
Samuel kirkman said, on 11/10/2009 3:40:00 PM
Wonderful show Guy’s! Thanks again for your experiences and insights!
Thomas James said, on 11/10/2009 9:28:00 PM
Thanks Bigeyes,
It’s always great to hear successful artists talking about their mistakes. Krishna is a great, down-to-earth artist eager to share with everyone.
Thomas
Thomas James said, on 11/10/2009 9:29:00 PM
Sure thing, Samuel. Glad to hear you enjoyed the interview! Lots more where that came from.
Thomas
Krishna Sadasivam said, on 11/11/2009 4:21:00 AM
I really enjoyed being on the show, Thomas. Thanks again for having me on! :)
Bigeyes said, on 11/11/2009 1:31:00 PM
Yes, I think so. It was a very good energy shot for me this interview.Thanks!
Laura
Thomas James said, on 11/11/2009 7:33:00 PM
Thanks right back at ya, Krishna. Thank for bringing so much great content to the show.
Episode 10 of the Escape From Illustration Island Podcast features an audio interview with Holly DeWolf, Illustrator and author of the book Breaking Into Freelance Illustration. Together we discuss the many great features of her book, and the ways that Illustrators can take their art from hobby to career.
As a special treat, Holly is teaming up with EFII to award a signed copy of this great resource to the winner of this week’s competition. Listen to my conversation with her to find out how to enter!
I also announce the winner of last week’s Wacom Tablet Giveaway, and tell you about the new developments in the EFII community.
Here are some of the resources mentioned on the show:
I think there are few things to mention here. First off there are many illustrators doing all sorts of different styles. One thing to keep in mind: it’s not always the most talented that gets the job but the one who yells the loudest with big persistence and a “I wont take no for an answer” type approach.
Also, I do think that the markets you are discussing is licensing & packaging. If that is a market you want to pursue then do your research. Look up Licensing agents & companies and arm yourself with as much information as possible.
Lastly, if you feel you maybe looking in the wrong spots then determine what market or markets you would like to pursue then go from there. It will help narrow your research effort down a bit.
And yes Thomas, how do you get your pic on this thing? (Good question) :)
Cheers!
Holly DeWolf said, on 10/28/2009 5:19:00 PM
Hi Nic!
There are a few approaches here to consider. First off, when meeting with client have a illustration check list. Jot down as much information as possible about said project. If money needs to be discussed in this meeting then ask what budget they are thinking. Write that down. If you need time to come up with a quote then you will have all the information on a sheet to refer to. Never feel pressured to give a number right away if you are not comfortable. Also, when you all in agreement of the project, the price and time frame you will need a Letter of Agreement/Contract. From there you will progress into the idea stage/ roughs/ final roughs and then work on the final piece. All this revolves including the client in all stages that way everyone is in agreement. Keep in mind-Clients don’t like surprises so make sure you include them in the process. It helps to build a great creative relationship. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Holly DeWolf said, on 10/28/2009 5:37:00 PM
Hi Marcus!
I think this is a tough one for many including myself. I do think it helps to have a number in mind. What would your average hourly fee be and why? Do you know how long it takes to come up with roughs/sketches on an average project? Also I do believe that having a yearly fee idea helps because it makes you take a look at how you will get to that number. So if you want to make $50,000 a year-how much will the average month be? Doing it this way makes it easier to wrap your head around such a daunting thing as money. I know some illustrators who charge $50 an hour and some who charge $75 an hour. Both work differently and in different markets. If you have a number that works for you, know how to back it up and throw a little explanation their way. Again, it helps you feel comfortable and your client feel comfortable and less shocked! Plus, also it helps build a relationship with your client. Check out the books- Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing & Ethical Guidelines & The Designer’s Guide To Marketing And Pricing: How To Win Clients And What To Charge Them by Ilise Benun and Peleg Top. Hope that helps some. Cheers!
Jose Gonzalez said, on 10/28/2009 6:37:00 PM
Clearly, I’d like to enter the contest, and thanks!!!!
I started to learn drawing some months ago using books and online resources. Actually sat down years ago to draw doodles from a cartooning book and liked it, so I had to try again. So I re-discovered my art bug. Now I’m interested in learning about illustration in all its forms. Sort of exploring creative expression, and would like to know more about the freelance aspect.
So you see, I don’t have much of an illustrator related item or anecdote to contribute, but I can tell you about my first big obstacle: time. Dayjob and family will take all of your day. Other than that, I’m slowly getting there. And I’m really enjoying the discoveries along the way.
I’m a beginner absorbing all the good advice I can find, and your interview was informative, helpful, and inspiring.
Thanks so much for sharing.
(checking out the show notes)
Scraps said, on 10/28/2009 7:21:00 PM
And btw: to get your picture to show up next to your comments, you have to have a wordpress.com account (with an avatar image uploaded) for the email address you use to leave comments then link them by signing in with the same email/pw combo over at http://en.gravatar.com
serkworks said, on 10/28/2009 8:13:00 PM
Like Thomas and most everyone else pricing was the most difficult thing to wrap my head around when first starting off. Ten years later it’s still difficult.
Pricing aside another question I still battle with is promotion, I’ve tried cold calling, direct mail, e-mail marketing, sourcebooks etc., all with mixed results. I have yet to discover that one thing that works best. There is probably no such thing. I imagine it’s just a little bit (or a lot) of everything. That and luck.
I’m curious what sort of promotional efforts work for other illustrators or if there is an avenue of promotion that I have totally overlooked.
Scott Serkland
Wendy Ding said, on 10/28/2009 8:25:00 PM
Great interview with a lot of inspiring tips and resources, thanks!
My biggest question is how can I go about developing different styles and still have the client or audience remember / recognize me? I tend to like several topics and find that I have various styles for portraying different ones – for example, fashion vs. children’s illustration. I don’t want to be pigeon-holed into one particular style since I’d like to leave it open enough to be considered for more jobs. Any help?
Jessica Alvarado said, on 10/28/2009 8:37:00 PM
Holly-
thanks for all the great replies to everyone. i’ve loved reading them and have learned quite a bit. cant wait to check out your book.
Thomas James said, on 10/28/2009 10:58:00 PM
Thanks for sharing that method for getting a gravatar image. I think I’ll do a post soon to pass on this info so more Illustrators in the growing community can get an image to go with their comments if they want.
Thomas James said, on 10/28/2009 11:00:00 PM
Thanks to everyone for their participation in this competition. And special thanks to Holly DeWolf for taking the time to address these questions. I hope you all find some valuable answers here. May it help you to move forward to all the future questions you will encounter in your career.
Episode 9 of the Escape From Illustration Island Podcast features an audio interview with Jonathan Woodward, Illustrator and founder of Zero 2 Illo, which is a blog for aspiring Illustrators that documents Jonathan’s adventures in building his Illustration career. Together we discuss the resources and topics that he covers on his site, as well as Location Independent, a joint venture with his wife which encourages people to “Live and Work Anywhere You Choose”.
I also announce the entry guidelines for the much-anticipated Wacom Tablet Giveaway, which is just one part of a 3-week series of contests designed to invite EFII listeners to participate in a growing community of artists.
Here are some of the resources mentioned on the show:
Thanks again for another great interview. Jonathan is a great inspiration to get out there and see the world.
Keep up the good work.
Twitter Trackbacks for Episode 9 – Zero 2 Illo � said, on 10/20/2009 1:28:00 PM
[...] Episode 9 – Zero 2 Illo « Escape From Illustration Island escapefromillustrationisland.com/2009/10/20/episode-9-zero-2-illo – view page – cached tags: audio interview, efii, escape from illustration island, illustration, jonathan woodward, Podcast, zero 2 illo by Thomas James — From the page [...]
Bigeyes said, on 10/20/2009 3:15:00 PM
Very inspiring and a lot of information in this podcast.
Great Job!
Wynston said, on 10/20/2009 3:25:00 PM
He’s so fresh, honest and straight forward. I can’t tell you how much i enjoyed finding this site and his. Thank you.
Carlos said, on 10/20/2009 10:38:00 PM
Great interview Thomas. Very valuable, honest and genuine information by Jonathan. Kudos to him for sharing his experience. I especially like that he is thinking outside the traditional box in terms of his market and opportunities for marketing his work outside the traditional avenues. He’s more entrepreneurial than most.
Jennifer Poulter said, on 10/20/2009 11:48:00 PM
Thomas that is fantastic!!!! I’m really enjoying the site!
Love your blog and mood swings :))
Jennifer Poulter said, on 10/21/2009 12:24:00 AM
Jonathan’s talking about being not a natural promoter of self is something I can really relate to – writers are observers not life of the party folk! The need to be blowing your own horn stuff vs look at me look at me is something I have struggles with too..
Thomas James said, on 10/21/2009 5:26:00 PM
Thanks everyone for all the great feedback and love. Jonathan truly is a great inspiration, and I really enjoyed speaking with him.
Do any of the listeners out there do anything similar on their blogs, as far as sharing their efforts to break into the field?
Brian said, on 10/21/2009 6:42:00 PM
To Whom It May Concern,
I’d like to submit my name for the drawing. I’ve really wanted to have one for the longest time. I used one in 2007 and miss it so much. I realize that I am a day late. Are you still accepting entries?
Thanks for your note. I’ll be accepting entries until Sunday the 25th at midnight PST. There are instructions on how to enter in the first 10 minutes of Episode 9 of the Podcast.
Hello everyone!
[...] This post was Twitted by MattiKemppainen [...]
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by Illo_Island: EFII Podcast Episode 14 – Holli Conger: http://wp.me/pw2a6-C5...
Great episode. I have heard Holli on o a couple of podcasts now and she is always insightful. This critique group thing sounds like a great idea. Kind of like a collective but less connected style wise.
EFIIs recources on art reps:
http://escapefromillustrationisland.com/promotion/
Gonna see if I have any links i can add to the list :)
Another great episode Thomas! And thanks to Holli for sharing all her tips. I especially like what she said about forming a critique group. I’ve been searching the net for one and haven’t been able to find anything, so I’m glad she talked about it and how to start one. :)
Thanks, Matt. I’m always looking for more resources for the library.
Holli was a great guest and brought a ton of quality content to the table in our conversation. I’m extremely grateful for her contribution.
Hi Thomas,
Thank you (and thanks to Holli, too!) for another inspiring and helpful conversation. I was particularly interested in her revelation that a potential rep won’t necessarily care so much that you don’t have a long client list…. this is something that I have been considering but dismissing because of this very concern!
Hi Amanda,
I too was surprised and inspired by Holli’s story. It’s very encouraging. Thanks for the feedback!
Thanks for all the nice comments here, twitter and via email guys!
Here’s a link to the page I mentioned that listed all the Children’s Illusration reps:
http://www.phylliscahill.com/greatsites/agents.html
Yes. i too have reconsidered the rep route because of this interview. I figure at the very least I can find out what they’re looking for so I can bring my work up to par. That would make me more competitive with or without a rep.
Good point, Nate. It’s also good to remember that reps are looking for the same things in your work as Art Directors are, so communicating with an art rep can be very rewarding.