PK 164: Dragons, Myths and Illustration - How Collette J Ellis Turned Her Passion Into a Career

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“Illustration was something I knew I always wanted to do - it was just finding a way to do it full-time. And, as soon as I started drawing what I wanted to draw and what I was interested in, that’s when it started to change.” ~ Collette J Ellis.

Dragons, myths and illustration are just some of the things that inspire today’s guest, Collette J Ellis.

And, in this inspiring interview, you’ll hear how she turned her passion for making art inspired by legends from her native Wales into a full-time career as a freelance illustrator.

You’ll hear how art gradually became a bigger and bigger part of her life, how she developed her own unique style, and how a series of successful Kickstarter campaigns inspired her to leave her part-time job and carve out a new creative career.

So, if you’ve got a passion for drawing something (but you’re wondering how to take the next steps as an artist), you’ll find plenty of great advice in this interview to help you move forwards.  

Key Takeaways From This Interview:

• Why your best art comes from drawing and painting the things you’re truly passionate about.
• How to make the art you really want to make - not the art you think others would like to see
• How to launch a successful Kickstarter or Patreon campaign
• How to say no to low-paid art commissions and working for free
• Why exploring ideas in your sketchbook is so important
• How to approach organizations for funding opportunities
• Why your local audience can often be your best one
• Why dragons, myths and illustration are loved by audiences all over the world
• How to approach galleries and publishers
• Why pursuing your passion can take you to all kinds of new and exciting places!