Creativity On Demand

Creativity on demand is the crux of being an illustrator. It’s an odd shift to draw and create for something other than just enjoyment. Other than just a whim or desire that is followed only when it arises. You start to find yourself drawing for something much less romantic; necessity. Even when you have a clear concept in mind and the piece inspires you, working to time frames can conjour the feeling of necessity strongly. As such it means that you need to approach your process differently.

 

If only there was an On/Off switch for creativity

 

I would class my emotions as quite a strong influencer on my work. I draw about things that I am passionate about, things that interest me and my work is a representation of my beliefs and opinions. Illustrating means working with someone else on their beliefs and their opinions and creating work from that. It’s not just the process that differs but your mind set that changes too.

 

Quality takes time

 

I think that the best friend to aid this new process is kind timescales. The reality is that creativity on demand just doesn’t work. It’s not like we aren’t busy enough with a million non-creative jobs to do as well though, right? Those spreadsheets don’t update themselves, orders don’t pack themselves and products don’t photograph themselves either. Sometimes your mind isn’t in drawing mode, and that’s ok. Give yourself timeframes that accept this and be open with your client about those too. Nail them down before you accept a job so that everyone’s expectations are realistic.

 

Teamwork makes the dream work

 

As for working with the beliefs and opinions of someone else, being clear about what they are is the absolute necessity here. Clear recorded conversations, asking questions and recording everything. Not just asking as well but actually listening. You are being approached because that person enjoys your style and creativity, so put your ideas out there. If they are a fan of your work they will listen. If they have their own ideas, just make sure that you are both comfortable with what gets agreed. There’s creativity in everyone and clients can have some really great ideas sometimes. Listen authentically and you never know what you might learn!