“How do brands find you?” is the number one question I get from artists and influencers alike. The answer? I find them.
Many folks have discovered my work via web3 and digital collectibles, but many don’t realize I’ve been professionally freelancing for a decade. I first found my initial clients via magazines and Craigslist (back when Facebook had ‘walls’ and ‘stickers’ …we should bring stickers back), and over time leveraged Instagram and Pinterest to find companies that resonated with me.
Once I had a small list, I’d find an email and reach out! Over the period of many years, this is how I began to support myself without a full time design job. Many may be surprised that I still do this on a regular basis. Yes, I have a licensing agent now, and they are a team of incredible women at Jewel Branding who help me apply my work to product, but for advertising, social, packaging, and essentially all else, it is still just me (with the emotional support of my partner Dave and my family).
If you’re an artist looking to begin their career, just know there is not one way to success. You can work full time for yourself, you can have a full time job and make art on the side, you work can be in galleries, and/or it can be accessible in the home’s of many. As long as you make work that is authentically you, you are a success.
I Love A Good Museum Print
I’ve always loved museum-style prints and posters, which is why I’m updating my accessible print shop to include them! Can’t wait to see these in your homes:
If you haven’t yet already, it would mean the world to me if you ordered my first book, here.
Very insightful read! Always love learning from different artists I admire and connect with. Sending you all the positive vibes in hopes you get that collaboration with Nike - concept post you created was epic!
Love your work, cheers!