How should I handle criticisms of my design?
Every artist will get criticised at some point- it’s to be expected. And it’s common for clients to not be satisfied with your work on the first attempt every time. Even though it’s often not personal, I always still find it frustrating when having produced a great piece of work (as far as I’m concerned) to then be told it needs amending. If a client is stressing me out with changes and criticisms, I take a break, talk to my friends or do something else for a while to calm myself down. If it’s trolling, you have to do your best to ignore it.
Do you work individually or do you work with other team of designers?
Almost always I’m on my own, which is the nature of freelancing. I’ve worked in-house on web design projects in the past, but these days it’s not common. I might liaise with another graphic designer or art director, but this is often only ever over email.
Have you worked with any print media before?
Many times. Other than my how-to books, I’ve created art and designs for magazine covers, posters, leaflets, apparel and gift items. There are certain considerations to think about when working for print compared to web, for example; print resolution, colours models such as CMYK, calibrating your screen and digital set up to mirror print profiles and reproduce your work as accurately as possible. I explain these in my book ‘Digital Manga’.
How have you been able to manage your time ensuring you have time for your family and friends?
Having said that, I make sure not to overload myself and not work those crazy long hour days if I can help it. I’d rather have less money and a life than become a work machine.
Are there other people’s designs that you admire, what is unique about their designs?
Sure. I love looking at art even more than producing my own! I’m a big fan of both eastern manga artists, and western comic artists, illustrators, graphic designers, tattoo artists and concept artists. Too many to name.
The uniqueness is hard to pin point. It often comes from the attention to detail and flourishes added which gives the creation more depth, interest and vibrancy than a typical, bland piece of work.
What are the major qualities of a good artist/designer?
Every designer will have their own unique qualities and skills they can bring to a project. Universally we all share a love for art, visual communication, creating and aesthetics. A good artist is never satisfied with their current level of ability and aspires to improve and achieve a high standard of work.
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If there’s a question you’d like answered relating to art, or digital illustration, feel free to contact me or leave a comment.
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