In today's competitive job market, a well-crafted resume is essential for landing your dream illustrator position. Your resume serves as the first impression you make on potential employers, showcasing your skills, experience, and unique style. However, creating a resume that effectively highlights your strengths and stands out from the crowd can be a daunting task.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the process of writing a compelling illustrator resume. We'll cover the key elements that should be included, provide tips for showcasing your work, and explore how to tailor your resume to specific job opportunities. Additionally, we've compiled six real-world examples of successful illustrator resumes to inspire and guide you as you create your own.
By following the advice in this article and studying the provided examples, you'll be well on your way to crafting a resume that captures the attention of hiring managers and opens doors to exciting new opportunities in the world of illustration. Let's dive in and discover how to make your illustrator resume shine.
Common Responsibilities Listed on Illustrator Resumes
- Create original illustrations, graphics, and visual elements using various techniques and media
- Collaborate with clients, art directors, and other team members to understand project requirements and provide creative solutions
- Develop and refine concepts through sketches, storyboards, and mock-ups
- Utilize industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to create digital illustrations
- Ensure consistency in style, color, and overall design across multiple projects and platforms
- Incorporate client feedback and make necessary revisions to illustrations and designs
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines
- Stay up-to-date with the latest design trends, techniques, and technologies in the illustration industry
- Prepare and submit final artwork files in various formats for print and digital use
- Maintain an organized portfolio showcasing a diverse range of illustration styles and techniques
- Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute ideas for new projects and campaigns
- Conduct research to gather reference materials and inspiration for illustration projects
- Negotiate contracts, rates, and project timelines with clients and vendors
How to write a Resume Summary
A striking summary or objective section in a resume can significantly boost one's chances of getting noticed by potential employers. This portion of your document needs to not only captivate attention, but should also serve as a concise and powerful statement of your career trajectory and professional essence -- be it as an illustrator or any other professional for that matter.
Why is there Need for a Summary or Objective Section
Creating a summary or objective section on your resume is a direct way of speaking to the potential employer right off the bat. It generally holds the first impression and sets the tone for the rest of your resume. Being in the creative domain, it becomes even more substantial for an illustrator to curate an interesting and authentic objective section. It's a sneak peek into your personal style, your experiences, and your goals; thereby paving a road into the depths of your professionalism, without even flipping the page.
Telling Your Unique Story
Creating a remarkable summary begins by understanding your unique career story. It may involve your art style as an illustrator-stylized, realistic, or drawing from a particular period or influence. It might also narrate your accomplishments and tools of the trade-such as proficiency in using design software or success in marquee projects. Delineate this story with utter transparency and simplicity to garner authentic engagement.
Reflecting on Your Goals
Aside from shedding light on your past portfolio, the summary should also mirror your future aspirations. This is the space where you give a glimpse of your vision and where you see yourself advancing in the field of illustration. Being clear, precise, and professional could turn out to be quite lucrative in this section.
Spark Engagement Through Authenticity
Art has no dearth of diverse styles, and neither does your career as an illustrator. Rather than trying to just match the buzzwords of the job description, strive for authenticity that not only encapsulates your illustrations but your personality too. The authenticity will forge a connection with the potential employers rendering it a memorable one.
Overall, the art of creating an effective summary or objective section lies in the harmony between professional simplicity, creative authenticity, a touch of your unique story, and clear directional goals. This balance will in all likelihood propel the potential employer's interest in your profile and give you the desired edge.
Strong Summaries
- Passionate Illustrator with over 10 years of experience in creating one-of-a-kind artwork for a variety of clients. Specializing in creating engaging illustrations that communicate ideas while connecting with audiences. Skilled in Adobe Suite.
- Creative and detail-oriented Illustrator with a strong background in visual communication. Masterful at transforming complex information into simple, compelling images. Has an exceptional ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Artistically-inclined Illustrator invested in all areas of visual arts. Proven ability to create concept art that inspires, with a sharp eye for lights and shadows. Skilled in working with diverse art media.
- Well-rounded illustrator gifted at breathing life into imagery using vivid colors and unique designs. Excellent command in using traditional and digital mediums with over 5 years of experience in the industry.
- Highly innovative Illustrator skilled at seeing big picture ideas and elaborating them into elaborate designs. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite with focus on creating illustrations that exceed client expectations.
Why these are strong?
The above examples highlight different qualities that could be beneficial for an illustrator. Examples point out different hard skills such as brilliance in using diverse art mediums, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and ability to meet deadlines. They also highlight different soft skills like creativity, detail-orientation and ability to transform complex information into simple images. They also give a bit of information about the illustrator’s experience and career progression. Overall, these examples are good as they give a comprehensive overview of the illustrator's skills and experience, setting the tone for the rest of the resume.
Weak Summaries
- Summary: I'm looking for a job.
- Summary: I just graduated and I'm free to work anytime.
- Summary: I have always loved watching animated movies and cartoon, so I decided to become an illustrator. I think having this job would be so cool!
- Summary: My hobby includes playing video games, hanging out with friends and watching movies. Also I like drawing.
Why these are weak?
These examples are considered bad practices for several reasons. Firstly, stating 'I'm looking for a job' is obvious and redundant; your application already shows your interest in the job. Secondly, mentioning personal hobbies or preferences such as 'love watching animated movies' or 'My hobby includes playing video games' does not provide any core competency or skill related to the job. Also, these examples lack professionalism: Using casual language like 'I think having this job would be so cool!' is not suitable for a resume. The summaries do not convey a clear understanding or overview of your qualifications, experience or skills instrumental to the role, which is what this section should highlight. A summary section should be concise, professional and focused on your most relevant and impressive qualifications and achievements.
Showcase your Work Experience
Creating an effective work experience section within your resume as an Illustrator involves showcasing your abilities, scalability, and how your unique style has made an impact in the industry. In a sea of other creatives, it will be how you illuminate your experience, your personal impact, how you've progressed over time and the challenges you've overcome that will catch employers' eyes.
Understanding What To Include
Prominently, you should include the names of the businesses/clients you have worked with, dates of your tenure and your role or job title. But the true-to-life elements are in the details of what you did during that time. Enumerate projects you worked on, describe the methodologies you used, demonstrate how you made progress (either within your role, for the project or for the business), outline teams you collaborated with, or situations where you took a leadership role.
Specific examples can include instances when you have successfully liaised with clients to fulfill their briefs, ways you have improved processes, or even how your illustrations led to a measurable improvement - such as an increase in engagement or conversions for a marketing campaign. The key here is to demonstrate that you are not just an artist, but also a contributor to important goals and outcomes.
Appropriate Terminology and Jargon
As an illustrator, you're in a creative field. Therefore, using industry-specific terminology can be beneficial, as it shows familiarity and understanding. These are likely to be terms that strategists and managers in your target jobs will understand and look for. However, it’s important not to overdo the jargon or rely on it entirely to express your value—you need to be able to articulate your accomplishments in clear, measurable terms.
Expert Tip
Quantify your achievements and impact in each role using specific metrics, percentages, and numbers to demonstrate the value you brought to your previous employers. This helps hiring managers quickly grasp the scope and significance of your contributions.
Presenting Your Achievements
For each role you list in this section, consider including bulleted highlights of your key achievements. Aim to make these results-focused wherever possible. Rather than just stating that you've 'designed multiple illustrations', you might want to say that you've 'designed and completed over X illustrations for variety of projects including books, brochures and digital media'. Specifying numbers wherever possible adds significance and scale to your achievements.
Tailoring to the application
Although you may have a general resume on hand, tailoring your work experience to align with the requirements of the job you are applying for is often beneficial. It can demonstrate that you've carefully considered the role, done your research on the company, and understand what it entails.
Remember, the goal of your resume - specifically the work experience section - is about effectively telling your professional story. It's about promoting your unique journey and the value that you bring as an Illustrator. Do it right and it can help create possibilities, open doors and potentially lead to the role that you are hoping to secure.
Strong Experiences
- Designed and developed 50+ highly creative and innovative illustrations and graphics for various clients leading to an increase in customer satisfaction by 30%
- Collaborated with the marketing team to create engaging visual content for company's social media channels which increased followers by 20%
- Led a team of designers to work on a major project which was completed within the deadline and increased the revenue by 25%
- Utilized advanced Adobe Illustrator skills to develop captivating logos, banners and digital ads, reducing ad campaign costs by 15%
- Worked closely with clients to understand their requirements and provided them with tailored illustration, leading to a 90% customer retention rate
Why these are strong?
These examples are great because they highlight the key duties, skills and achievements of the illustrator role. They provide data to back-up claims and demonstrate a strong impact on the business. They also show the individual's team work skills, technical skills and client relationship management ability. Each of these are important qualities for an illustrator and hence underline that the candidate would be a strong choice for the role.
Weak Experiences
- Draw pictures all day.
- Worked on Illustrator works.
- Created some designs.
- Did stuffs on computer.
- Worked with colours, shapes, and lines.
- Sculpted with my computer mouse.
- Used Illustrator a lot.
Why these are weak?
The above examples fail to provide a clear picture of the responsibilities one would handle in an illustrator's role. They are vague, generic, lack specificity, and are missing vital details like what types of designs were created, what projects were worked on, what tools in Illustrator were commonly utilized, and what the final products were used for. The language used is also casual and unprofessional ('did stuffs on computer', 'worked with colours, shapes, and lines'). The lack of measurable achievements makes them weak and fails to demonstrate the candidate's capabilities and accomplishments. Good bullet points should be results-focused, showcasing the value you brought to your previous companies.
Skills, Keywords & ATS Tips
Crafting a precise Illustrator resume demands good understanding of the role hard and soft skills play. Additionally, knowing the connection between keywords, ATS (Applicant Tracking System) and skills matching can hugely benefit you. Let's take a closer look at each of these elements.
Hard and Soft Skills in an Illustrator Resume
Hard skills are specific, teachable, and tangible. In context of an Illustrator, these could be knowledge of design software, illustration techniques, color theory, and typography. These skills display your technical capability to perform the job.
In contrast, soft skills are more related to your personal traits and include communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving abilities. Despite being an illustrator, you might have to interact with clients, coordinate with a team, manage multiple projects, and solve issues - that's when these skills come in handy.
Balancing both hard and soft skills on your resume makes you a well-rounded candidate, appealing to most recruiters.
Keywords, ATS and Skills Matching
ATS is a tool used by recruiters to filter and rank applicants based on certain parameters - one being keywords. Keywords in this context are typically the skills and qualifications mentioned in the job description.
If you can carefully employ these keywords in your skills section, your resume becomes ATS-friendly. This means your resume stands better chances of being shortlisted.
Skills matching is picking up the exact hard and soft skills the employer is seeking and displaying them on your resume. Aligning your skills with the job requirements is mandatory to ace the ATS, as the system is designed to identify the best fit for the job.
So, boiling it down: The skills section of your Illustrator resume must showcase a blend of hard and soft skills. Strictly match the keywords and skills from the job description to make your resume ATS-friendly. Lastly, display only those skills that you genuinely have to create an honest image during the interview. Remember, keywords are your keys to open the interview doors, but your actual skills will help you secure the job.
Top Hard & Soft Skills for Full Stack Developers
Hard Skills
Soft Skills
Top Action Verbs
Use action verbs to highlight achievements and responsibilities on your resume.
Education & Certifications
To add education or certificates to your resume, you need to create a dedicated section. Title it "Education" or "Certifications" depending on the content. List your qualifications starting with the most recent one. For each entry, mention the title of the degree/certificate, the name of the institution, and the year of completion. Remember to include any relevant coursework or specializations that may pertain to your Illustrator career. This will enhance your credibility and potentially make you a more appealing candidate.
Some of the most important certifications for Illustrators
Demonstrates proficiency in using Adobe Illustrator for creating vector graphics and illustrations.
Validates skills in graphic design principles, including the use of Illustrator and other design tools.
Resume FAQs for Illustrators
question
What is the best resume format for an illustrator?
Answer
The best resume format for an illustrator is a combination (hybrid) format that showcases both your creative skills and professional experience. Start with a strong summary statement, followed by a skills section highlighting your technical proficiencies. Then, include your work experience and education in reverse-chronological order.
question
How long should an illustrator's resume be?
Answer
An illustrator's resume should typically be one to two pages long. If you have extensive relevant experience, a two-page resume may be appropriate. However, for most illustrators, a concise one-page resume that effectively showcases your skills, experience, and achievements is sufficient.
question
Should I include a portfolio with my illustrator resume?
Answer
Yes, it is crucial to include a portfolio or a link to your online portfolio when submitting your illustrator resume. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and demonstrate your artistic style, creativity, and technical skills. Make sure to select pieces that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
question
What skills should I highlight on my illustrator resume?
Answer
On your illustrator resume, highlight a mix of technical skills and soft skills. Technical skills may include proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), drawing, sketching, and digital illustration. Soft skills to emphasize include creativity, attention to detail, communication, time management, and the ability to work collaboratively with a team.
question
How can I make my illustrator resume stand out?
Answer
To make your illustrator resume stand out, focus on creating a visually appealing and well-organized layout that reflects your artistic style. Use a clean, easy-to-read font and incorporate subtle design elements that showcase your creativity. Tailor your resume to the specific job requirements and company culture, and emphasize your unique selling points, such as awards, publications, or notable clients you've worked with.
Illustrator
Resume Example
An Illustrator creates visually appealing graphics, drawings, and designs for books, magazines, websites, and other media using digital illustration tools. They blend creativity with technical skills to bring concepts to life.When crafting an Illustrator's resume, highlight your diverse illustration portfolio showcasing various styles and techniques. Detail expertise in industry-standard software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Quantify experience through internships, freelance projects, or commissions, emphasizing your ability to meet clients' needs while adhering to deadlines and creative briefs.
Diana Morris
diana.morris@example.com
•
(815) 917-0910
•
linkedin.com/in/diana.morris
Illustrator
Creative and skilled illustrator with a passion for bringing ideas to life through captivating visuals. Experienced in collaborating with clients and teams to deliver high-quality illustrations that effectively communicate concepts and engage audiences. Proficient in various digital illustration techniques and traditional media, with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to meeting deadlines.
Work Experience
Senior Illustrator
01/2019
-
Present
Bright Pixel Studio
- Led the illustration department, overseeing a team of 5 illustrators and ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality projects.
- Collaborated with clients and art directors to develop engaging illustrations for advertising campaigns, resulting in a 25% increase in client satisfaction.
- Created a series of illustrations for a children's book that received critical acclaim and sold over 50,000 copies worldwide.
- Developed and implemented new illustration techniques, improving the efficiency of the team by 20%.
- Mentored junior illustrators, providing guidance and feedback to help them grow their skills and advance their careers.
Freelance Illustrator
06/2015
-
12/2018
Self-employed
- Worked with a diverse range of clients, including startups, established brands, and individual entrepreneurs, to create custom illustrations that met their specific needs.
- Developed a strong portfolio showcasing various illustration styles and techniques, attracting new clients and increasing revenue by 30%.
- Created a series of editorial illustrations for a prominent magazine, contributing to a 15% increase in readership.
- Collaborated with a team of designers and writers to create a successful crowdfunding campaign for a graphic novel, raising over $50,000.
- Consistently delivered high-quality work within tight deadlines, maintaining a 95% client retention rate.
Junior Illustrator
09/2013
-
05/2015
Vibrant Graphics Inc.
- Assisted senior illustrators in creating illustrations for various projects, including websites, mobile apps, and print media.
- Developed proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop, to create high-quality digital illustrations.
- Contributed to the successful completion of over 50 client projects, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding client expectations.
- Participated in regular team brainstorming sessions, generating creative ideas and solutions for illustration challenges.
- Continuously improved illustration skills through attending workshops, studying industry trends, and experimenting with new techniques.
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
09/2009
-
05/2013
Pratt Institute
,
Brooklyn, NY
Entry Level Illustrator
Resume Example
Entry-level illustrators breathe life into concepts through captivating visuals for books, ads, websites, and more. Crafting a stellar resume? Showcase artistic prowess via a striking online portfolio. Weave in relevant skills and experiences, like graphic design coursework or internships with top creative agencies. And don't forget to sprinkle in those all-important keywords from listings.
Grace Brewer
grace.brewer@example.com
•
(297) 414-6941
•
linkedin.com/in/grace.brewer
Entry Level Illustrator
Talented and versatile illustrator with a passion for creating captivating visual narratives. Skilled in various traditional and digital media, with a keen eye for detail and a strong sense of composition. Adept at collaborating with clients and team members to deliver high-quality illustrations that exceed expectations.
Work Experience
Junior Illustrator
06/2022
-
Present
Vibrant Creative Studios
- Collaborated with art directors and designers to create engaging illustrations for various projects, including children's books, magazines, and marketing materials.
- Developed a series of illustrations for a successful Kickstarter campaign, contributing to the project's funding goal being exceeded by 150%.
- Created a set of character designs for an animated short film, which was selected for screening at multiple international film festivals.
- Assisted senior illustrators in conceptualizing and executing illustrations for a high-profile client, resulting in a long-term contract for the studio.
- Participated in regular team brainstorming sessions, contributing ideas and sketches to enhance project outcomes.
Freelance Illustrator
01/2020
-
05/2022
Self-employed
- Provided illustration services for a diverse range of clients, including small businesses, non-profit organizations, and individual authors.
- Created a series of illustrations for a self-published children's book, which received positive reviews and achieved strong sales.
- Developed a set of custom illustrations for a local restaurant's rebranding campaign, contributing to a 20% increase in customer engagement.
- Collaborated with a team of designers to create a series of illustrations for a mobile gaming app, which achieved over 100,000 downloads within the first month of release.
- Continuously updated skills and techniques through online courses and workshops to stay current with industry trends and best practices.
Illustration Intern
06/2019
-
12/2019
Whimsical Designs Inc.
- Assisted senior illustrators in creating illustrations for various projects, including greeting cards, stationery, and gift products.
- Developed a series of illustrations for a company's social media campaign, which resulted in a 25% increase in follower engagement.
- Created a set of illustrations for a limited-edition product line, which sold out within the first week of release.
- Participated in team meetings and contributed ideas for new product concepts and design improvements.
- Gained valuable experience in working with clients, meeting deadlines, and collaborating with a creative team.
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
09/2015
-
05/2019
Pratt Institute
,
Brooklyn, NY
Professional Illustrator
Resume Example
Professional illustrators visually interpret ideas through artistic graphics for publishing, advertising and digital media. Key skills: creativity, technical prowess with illustration tools, and ability to convey concepts powerfully. When crafting resumes, highlight your distinctive illustration style with an eye-catching portfolio. Emphasize diverse projects showcasing versatility. Detail relevant software expertise alongside traditional artistic talents. Present qualifications in an aesthetic, easily digestible format.
Connor Montgomery
connor.montgomery@example.com
•
(703) 734-9627
•
linkedin.com/in/connor.montgomery
Professional Illustrator
Creative and passionate illustrator with over 8 years of experience in digital and traditional art. Skilled in creating captivating illustrations for diverse projects, including children's books, graphic novels, and commercial campaigns. Known for strong storytelling abilities and unique artistic style that brings characters and scenes to life.
Work Experience
Senior Illustrator
01/2020
-
Present
Penguin Random House
- Lead illustrator for high-profile children's book series, consistently meeting tight deadlines while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Collaborated with authors and editors to develop engaging characters and storylines, resulting in bestselling titles.
- Created promotional artwork for book launches and events, increasing brand visibility and sales.
- Mentored junior illustrators, fostering a supportive and creative work environment.
- Implemented new digital illustration techniques, improving efficiency and expanding the studio's capabilities.
Freelance Illustrator
06/2016
-
12/2019
Self-employed
- Worked with diverse clients, including publishing houses, advertising agencies, and independent authors.
- Developed a strong portfolio showcasing versatility in styles and subject matter.
- Consistently delivered high-quality illustrations within budget and time constraints.
- Built a loyal client base through effective communication and professionalism.
- Continuously expanded skill set through self-directed learning and workshops.
Junior Illustrator
09/2014
-
05/2016
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
- Assisted senior illustrators in creating artwork for educational textbooks and materials.
- Developed illustration skills in various mediums, including digital painting and traditional techniques.
- Collaborated with design team to ensure illustrations aligned with project objectives and brand guidelines.
- Contributed to successful completion of multiple projects, earning praise from supervisors and clients.
- Participated in company-wide initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in educational content.
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
09/2010
-
05/2014
Rhode Island School of Design
,
Providence, RI
Adobe Ilustrator
Resume Example
As an Adobe Illustrator, you'll be responsible for designing high-quality vector graphics, illustrations, logos and other digital artwork for marketing materials, user interfaces and publications. Strong skills in vector graphics software, typography and color theory are essential. To craft an impressive resume, showcase your proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Illustrator, through descriptions of relevant projects and a link to your online portfolio highlighting your best work. Emphasize your artistic talents, creativity, keen eye for detail and ability to translate abstract concepts into visually striking designs. Include any relevant education, certifications or specializations that demonstrate your commitment to mastering graphic design principles and industry-standard software tools.
Gina Cooper
gina.cooper@example.com
•
(632) 670-6676
•
linkedin.com/in/gina.cooper
Adobe Ilustrator
Creative and detail-oriented Adobe Illustrator with over 8 years of experience in developing visually stunning illustrations, logos, and graphics for various clients across industries. Adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver projects that exceed expectations and drive business growth. Passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest design trends and techniques to create innovative and impactful designs.
Work Experience
Senior Illustrator
01/2020
-
Present
Ogilvy
- Lead a team of 5 illustrators to create compelling illustrations and graphics for high-profile clients, resulting in a 25% increase in client satisfaction.
- Develop and implement new illustration techniques and styles, leading to a 20% reduction in project turnaround times.
- Collaborate with the creative director to conceptualize and execute award-winning campaigns, including a Cannes Lions award for best illustration.
- Mentor junior illustrators, providing guidance and feedback to help them enhance their skills and grow within the company.
- Create a series of illustrations for a major tech client, contributing to a successful product launch and a 30% increase in sales.
Illustrator
06/2017
-
12/2019
AKQA
- Developed a range of illustrations and graphics for digital and print campaigns, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding client expectations.
- Collaborated with the UX team to create user-friendly and visually appealing illustrations for web and mobile applications.
- Created a series of illustrations for a major sports brand, contributing to a successful social media campaign with over 1 million engagements.
- Participated in brainstorming sessions to generate new ideas and concepts for client projects.
- Worked closely with the account management team to ensure client needs were met and projects were delivered on time and within budget.
Junior Illustrator
09/2015
-
05/2017
Deutsch
- Assisted senior illustrators in creating illustrations and graphics for various client projects.
- Developed a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of design principles.
- Created illustrations for a children's book project, receiving praise from the client and the creative director.
- Participated in workshops and training sessions to enhance skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
- Demonstrated strong time management skills, consistently meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
09/2011
-
05/2015
Rhode Island School of Design
,
Providence, RI
Illustration
Resume Example
Illustrators breathe life into concepts through visual art. Key responsibilities include ideating creative designs, executing polished illustrations, and mastering relevant art software. For illustration resumes, highlight your artistic abilities, detail your proficiency with industry tools, and include a curated portfolio demonstrating your strongest work samples. Showcase your unique creative perspective and technical skills.
Steven Kuhn
steven.kuhn@example.com
•
(866) 921-9634
•
linkedin.com/in/steven.kuhn
Illustration
Creative and passionate illustrator with a knack for bringing ideas to life through captivating visuals. Skilled in traditional and digital mediums, delivering high-quality illustrations that engage audiences and exceed client expectations. Known for strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Work Experience
Senior Illustrator
01/2019
-
Present
Penguin Random House
- Lead illustrator for bestselling children's book series, resulting in a 25% increase in sales
- Collaborated with authors and editors to develop engaging illustrations that complemented storytelling
- Managed a team of 5 junior illustrators, providing guidance and mentorship to ensure high-quality output
- Implemented new digital illustration techniques, reducing project timelines by 20%
- Recognized with the company's 'Illustrator of the Year' award for outstanding contributions in 2022
Freelance Illustrator
06/2016
-
12/2018
Self-employed
- Delivered illustrations for a diverse range of clients, including magazines, advertising agencies, and startups
- Developed a strong reputation for creating unique, eye-catching illustrations that effectively communicated client messages
- Managed all aspects of the freelance business, including client acquisition, project management, and invoicing
- Consistently met deadlines and maintained open communication with clients, resulting in a 90% client retention rate
- Expanded skill set by experimenting with new illustration styles and techniques
Junior Illustrator
09/2014
-
05/2016
Leo Burnett
- Supported senior illustrators in creating illustrations for high-profile advertising campaigns
- Assisted in the development of storyboards and concept sketches for client presentations
- Collaborated with art directors and copywriters to ensure illustrations aligned with campaign objectives
- Demonstrated strong work ethic and willingness to learn, resulting in increased responsibilities and opportunities
- Contributed to award-winning campaigns, including a Clio Award for Best Illustration in Advertising
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
09/2010
-
05/2014
School of Visual Arts
,
New York, NY
Freelance Illustrator
Resume Example
A freelance illustrator is a visual artist who creates artwork like illustrations, drawings, and designs for clients across various industries on a project basis. Their resume should showcase an impressive portfolio, highlighting their distinct illustration style and skills with different mediums and tools. It should also demonstrate their ability to understand client requirements, meet deadlines, and provide top-notch work. Including positive client testimonials can further validate their professionalism and expertise.
Darryl Jones
darryl.jones@example.com
•
(269) 685-9119
•
linkedin.com/in/darryl.jones
Freelance Illustrator
Versatile and imaginative freelance illustrator with over a decade of experience creating captivating visuals for a diverse range of clients. Skilled in both traditional and digital media, delivering high-quality illustrations that effectively communicate ideas and engage audiences. Known for strong collaboration skills, attention to detail, and the ability to bring clients' visions to life.
Work Experience
Freelance Illustrator
01/2018
-
Present
Self-employed
- Collaborated with clients from various industries, including publishing, advertising, and entertainment, to create bespoke illustrations that effectively convey their message and brand identity.
- Developed a diverse portfolio showcasing proficiency in multiple styles and techniques, attracting a wide range of clients and projects.
- Consistently met deadlines and exceeded client expectations, resulting in a high rate of repeat business and referrals.
- Stayed current with industry trends and technologies, continuously expanding skill set and exploring new creative approaches.
- Managed all aspects of the freelance business, including client communication, project management, and financial administration.
Illustrator
06/2014
-
12/2017
Penguin Random House
- Created illustrations for book covers, interior pages, and promotional materials for a variety of genres and age groups.
- Collaborated closely with art directors, designers, and editors to ensure illustrations aligned with the book's theme, tone, and target audience.
- Developed a keen understanding of the publishing industry and the role of illustration in capturing readers' attention and communicating the essence of a story.
- Consistently delivered high-quality work on tight deadlines, contributing to the success of numerous best-selling titles.
- Received praise from colleagues and clients for the ability to interpret abstract concepts and create engaging, emotionally resonant illustrations.
Junior Illustrator
09/2011
-
05/2014
Leo Burnett
- Assisted senior illustrators in creating illustrations and visual assets for high-profile advertising campaigns.
- Contributed to the conceptualization and execution of illustrations that effectively communicated clients' brand messages and resonated with target audiences.
- Developed a strong foundation in the principles of commercial illustration and the role of visuals in advertising and marketing.
- Demonstrated a willingness to learn and take on new challenges, earning increasing responsibility and opportunities to work on a variety of projects.
- Received recognition for strong work ethic, creativity, and the ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced agency environment.
Skills
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
09/2007
-
05/2011
School of Visual Arts
,
New York, NY
