I was asked some questions...
Do you want to know the answers?
Like many illustrators, I get requests now and then from students who’ve been set an interview task as part of a professional practice module. I don’t get so many these days, which I hope is because tutors have got the message that we really don’t have time but we often find it hard to say no! Recently somebody happened to ask nicely at the right time (when I was avoiding something else), so I spent a few minutes tapping out a quick reply.
I thought to make the most of it, I’d share the exchange here. This isn’t an open invitation to students to ask me the same questions! But if you’re set a similar take, save your energy and just nick this instead. Pretend you asked me personally, I won’t tell if you don’t.
How did you get into the world of illustration?
I switched careers when I was 30 after realising I was unhappy with what I was doing at the time (silversmithing). After discovering illustrating picture books was a thing (nobody had told me) I spent a good year learning everything I could get my hands on. I started with watercolours.
What was your first published work, and how did you get the job?
My first agent found me via Instagram in 2016 and with her I worked on my first author-illustrator project. It didn't get picked up by any publishers, but one of them - Beach Lane, a US imprint of Simon & Schuster - liked my style and hired me to illustrate my first book 'Pony Poems for Little Pony Lovers' written by Cari Meister.
What does your average day look like as an illustrator?
There's no such thing for me because I'm useless with routine, but it generally will include some amount of admin and promotion (which could be answering emails, updating social media or website etc) and hopefully some amount of arting. If I have a job on, I'll work on that, and if I have free time I'll at least do some sketching. I also try to get outside when I can and also do some dreaming.
Do you think having an agent is helpful, in regards to getting regular paid work?
I think regular work is very hard to come by in illustration full stop. The right agent will get you access to opportunities that are hard to come by on your own, but they never hand you jobs on a plate. It's still up to you to consistently promote yourself.
Do you work full time as a picture book illustrator?
No, I work full time as an artist at the moment, but not just in books. I also sell prints, wholesale greetings cards, and take on a few commissions. I'm always looking for other avenues to explore.
Do you have other creative income streams or a part-time job?
See above! I don't have a part-time job just now, but I'm always open to taking one if something suitable presents itself.
I know each children’s book is very different, so I was wondering how long (on average) it takes you to complete a book project?
Probably around 6-8 months. But they vary wildly.
Within each project, do you communicate with the authors, or is the communication through an agent?
I very rarely have contact with the author. Each project is different, but my main contact is usually an editor, designer or art director. My agent is always ready to help out if I need her.
What inspires you to draw and paint?
Money! Just kidding (ish) creating is an integral part of me that I would (and have) done whether I could make it my job or not.
Do you have any favourite illustrators?
Many past and present: Raymond Briggs, Tove Jansson, Laura Knight, Ravillious, Arthur Rackham, Felicita Sala, Emily Hughes, Chuck Groenik - loads!
I hope that’s been a bit interesting. Of course if you can’t get enough of me, I also have a list of Frequently Asked Questions over on my website so head over there if you want to know more!
Sara.x