As someone who previously quite disliked New Years, I’ve changed my tune in recent years, especially when it comes to my business; I enjoy the opportunity to reflect. Within most freelance work, each month can be very different from the last. I might invest a lot of money on new stock or equipment, and not see the benefits until months later, and sales and commissions definitely fluctuate through different seasons, so a year feels more fitting when making comparative judgement, especially when it comes to profits. I didn’t make the most art this year, but I did work on a few incredible projects for some a great clients, as well as taking part in way more markets, and selling my products in a couple more shops, and consequently made almost double my profits compared to last year! So a HUGE thank you to all my amazing clients, customers and supporters 🫶🏻
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it many more times, I never got into illustration for the money, but of course it helps what what you love doing is finally paying off. Figuring out how to do this, and putting the correct tools in place has been a work in progress for the last 4 years, with lots of trial and error, but this year I feel I’ve really implemented lessons I’ve learnt prior, and this has come with a healthy and reasonably steady flow of income, from multiple streams. The draw back of this though has unfortunately been burning myself out, a LOT… but then it’s also enabled me to spend more time and money on my other interests, which is pretty priceless in my opinion. These interests include attending festivals, seeing live music, travelling, rollerskating, swimming in the sea and covering my skin in incredible art, (I finished my dream tattoo sleeve this year!) - I’m constantly trying to achieve that perfect work/play balance 🤪.
Looking forward, I’d love to start showcasing some of these interests more so within my illustration work. Elements of my personality are defiantly already present within my work; my love for animals and nature, and encouragement of feminist and environmental can be seen pretty clearly amongst my portfolio, but there’s always room for more, and I feel it’s super important to demonstrate to clients what I’m passionate about. However there’s a sense of vulnerability when showing your full self to the world through the internet, and this internal fear that I won’t do these themes justice. But you don’t get anywhere sitting in your comfort zone.
I’m now starting my year travelling Australia, in a van with the love of my life, so I think the burnout will be worth it, and I’m hoping during this time to be inspired and to subsequently create more art, lets watch this space! 🤠
For a fun video recap of the last 12 months, visit my instagram page here!
