Introduction to Industry Structures

Design Houses

Design houses employ artists to create and supply images in a 'house style', meaning drawing and producing in a certain way to fit the specific style of the brand.

• Artists hold no rights on sold images- flat payment only
• Gives a steady source of income
• This can be a good place to start for some, i.e. as a 'desk job' while gaining freelance and other creative work

Freelancing

Freelancing is a way of working that means it is all up to you. You decide where and when you work, for how long and in what ways. Freelance artists can either get commissioned work through networking themselves or working with an agent who secures breifs from clients, possibly on an international scale. It can be very hard to be freelance only and most illustrators and artists supplement their freelance income with other jobs, wether creative or not.

• Majority of artists are freelance
• Use a recognised legal structure (important)
• Can sell work for a smaller initial sum but gain income from copies sold
• Usually start working from home

Networking

Networking is an important aspect of any industry, and especially in the creative sector. Building a chain of industry links leads to commissions and income, and partnerships with agencies and publishing houses can ensure a steady wage.

• Who can help me?
• Who can support me?
• Can lead to introductions to new markets and commissions

Collaborations

A lot of artists collaborate with each others to combine their works in new and unusual ways. Some artists work exclusively together in partnerships, with one member taking on one role and the other something else.

• Collaborations are important
• They combine skills
• Who can help me and add to my work?
• Networking can lead to collaborations

Galleries

Galleries and exhibitions are a crucial part of the creative industry. Again, they can be a source of income if marketed and presented properly, and can open up new links with possible clients.

• Galleries exhibit and sell original work, digital prints and limited edition prints
• Researching relevant galleries will be important in my work
• Galleries can expose new illustrators and provide an entry into the industry

Competitions

Competitions are frequently held in the illustration world, both nationally and internationally. If chosen correctly they can offer huge (even worldwide) exposure and are another window for potential clients and agencies to view your work.

• Industry personel will be there
• Mediocre and bad work will be remembered
• Are held in a number of different disciplines including illustration only