Ask me anything: Your Top Artist Questions Answered

My ‘ask me anything’ segment is where I take questions asked in my Insta Broadcast Channel and answer them, first and foremost, in my newsletter. Which, if you’re not on my emailing list, you’ll totally want to sign up to. 

I love being able to answer your questions and support you on your journey as artists. This month a few topics came up, so let’s get into it!

“How do you say yes and prepare for an event that isn’t your usual style?”

The first thing to remember is this - if you say yes to this event, you may get more enquiries for the same. It’s the whole “what you put out, you attract”. So only agree to the events/jobs you want to continue doing. For example, if I said yes to illustrating (I dunno) in a digital cartoon-ish style, I don't want to be known for that style so would refer to an artist who actually draws like that. 

But if a look/style elevates what you already do, then there’s no reason you can’t experiment. My Paspaley job is the perfect example - facial portraits weren’t my usual wheelhouse (rather, full portraits), but I was excited to learn and practice. It was a challenge that aligned with where I wanted to go creatively, so it was a “yes”, and now is something I could do for future clients.

On the other hand, if I was asked to paint, say… beer bottles? Would I want more work like that? Probably not.

There’s a difference between:

• a good gut-feeling yes (aligned, exciting, worth practicing for), and

• a guilt/obligation/desperation yes (we’ve all been there, but in those cases… do the job - just don’t post it and do it for the money).

Remember to be intentional with the opportunities you choose to accept - they’ll shape your portfolio.

“How do you organise yourself if you draw by yourself [at] a wedding. I have ADHD and struggle with organising, photos, drawings etc.”

I only recently (this year) discovered event assistants! But I still do 80+% of events on my own. So yes, it’s absolutely doable. 

My main advice: 

• Batch your reference photos early.
I take the bulk of my photos at the start of the event, then settle into painting mode. Getting the ‘admin’ out of the way early keeps the rest of the event smooth and predictable.

• Bring support when you need it.
If you’re new to live wedding illustration, it can be incredibly helpful to bring a partner, friend, or hired assistant. They can help with queue management, photo taking, organising name lists, or answering guest questions. Just don’t forget to factor the assistant cost into your packages!

And if you don’t have anyone in your circle who can help, put out a call on Instagram. You’d be surprised how many creatives are keen to assist at events!

If you have more questions like these, drop them in my Instagram Broadcast Channel and I’ll keep answering them in my newsletters (and here on the blog)!