Illustrator
The Work
Illustrators produce drawings, paintings or diagrams that help make a product more attractive or easier to understand. Sometimes illustration and graphic design are combined.
Illustrators may work on:
Illustrators work in many different styles and for many different projects. They might specialise in colourful drawings for children’s books or detailed technical diagrams for a manufacturer. In most cases they take a brief from the client or designer and use this as the basis for ideas.
Illustrators may use computer design packages, but drawing and painting are still very important.
Once illustration is finished, illustrators might be involved in placing the work in the text, in producing the publication, or in preparing the drawing for printing.
Hours and Conditions
Illustrators usually work between 30 and 40 hours a week, but might work longer hours to meet a deadline. Part-time work is possible. Because most illustrators are freelance, hours may vary and will often be flexible.
Illustrators usually work at home or in a studio. If they are involved in technical or scientific illustration they may also make site visits. Some time may be spent visiting clients to show their portfolio and to discuss briefs.
Skills and Interests
To be an illustrator you need:
Training
Other qualifications and training include:
There are postgraduate degrees and diplomas in fine art and illustration. Entry is usually with a first degree.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
Most illustrators work freelance and may use an agent, who takes a commission, or sell their work directly. It can be extremely difficult to become established and known to commissioning clients and agents. It is also possible to work for a design agency, a publishing company or a magazine, though graphic design skills may be required. A very few illustrators work for industrial or commercial clients directly.
As an illustrator working for a company, progression to art director or design manager is possible. There may also be opportunities to specialise or to teach.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
Income for illustrators varies according to ability and reputation and type of employer.
Income for new entrants is around £13,500 per year.
Experienced illustrators earn £19,600 to £27,000+ per year.
Well-established illustrators might earn £40,000+ per year.
Illustrators who work independently and those with recognised ability may earn more.
Freelance illustrators charge a fee per illustration. Occasionally, they charge a day rate, which could be in the region of £150 to £250+, based on experience. Agents may take up to 30 per cent as commission.
Further Information
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The Association of Illustrators
Tel: 020 7613 4328
www.theaoi.com
IDEASFACTORY
www.channel4.com/ideasfactory
Institute of Scientific and Technical Communicators
Tel: 01733 390141
www.istc.org.uk
Arts Advice
Tel: 0800 093 0444
www.artsadvice.com
