Monday, December 21, 2015

Create An Illustrators Portfolio For Publishing

Create an Illustrators Portfolio for Publishing


Having an illustrator's portfolio, sometimes called an art portfolio, is an important element for artists and illustrators to put together early on in their careers. Your illustrator's portfolio is your calling card when you present yourself and your work to potential clients or any agency you may want to consider representing you and your work. Putting together an illustrator's portfolio is an ongoing process that you will revise as your career evolves and will help ensure that you are always prepared to show your work to get the jobs and opportunities you desire in the world of art.


Instructions


1. Write a short bio that includes your personal background and upbringing, where you're from, where you currently live and some of your interests. Focus on events in your life that may have inspired you to get into illustrating as a career. Don't forget to include any education you have regarding any type of art schooling. This isn't the place to list every job you've had, but you can mention some of your most successful works. Have an 8 by 10 glossy head shot of yourself to include as part of the portfolio.


2. Include a resume. Your resume should be a complete list of any art-related jobs you've had, work you've done as a freelancer and any contests you've won. When possible, include tear sheets from magazines that may have featured your work or any articles about you and your work. The resume is ongoing and should be updated to keep it complete.


3. Select a sampling of your best illustrations. Between ten and fifteen 8 1/2 by 11 examples you consider representative of the type of illustrations you do best will be adequate. Include both illustrations you may have done for clients as well as unpublished work. The goal of your portfolio is to help further you as an illustrator. Clients who see illustrations that have been successfully sold elsewhere may be more inclined to work with you. Add variety to your portfolio by including a selection of illustrations that show your range and capabilities.


4. Organize your portfolio. You can purchase a leather portfolio case to carry everything in. Consider purchasing an illustrator-specific portfolio that has plastic sleeves for displaying your illustrations. Your bio and resume will be first in the portfolio, followed by your illustrations. Avoid stapling work together or using a three-ring binder.

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