Confucius once said, “Choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” In the interview zone today, I have someone who is the epitome of this saying.
You might have come across her beautiful illustrations, and if you have, I’m definitely sure you might have loved them too. I’ve been following her on Instagram for a while, and I adore her work. Finally, the day before yesterday, I mustered the courage to ask her for an interview, and I was astounded by her humble response.
If you are still not sure, I’ll tell you: I’m talking about Jen from @zingpandora.
Jen is a full-time digital illustrator and social media advertiser. So, go ahead and read our conversation.
Me: Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background and how you got started in graphic illustration?
Jen: I’m Jen I’m a mom of three. I have a 22-year-old son and twin Boys who are 13. I’ve always had a passion for art, and at first did it as a hobby. I then decided to study digital artistry. I now am a full-time illustrator.
Me: What inspired you to become an illustrator, and who are some of your biggest influences in the field?
Jen: When my Kids were little, I would spend time with them drawing, painting made special memories. That made my Kids happy it motivated me and inspired me.
My mom was my best friend, influence she pushed me to do what I love. Sadly, I lost her in August last year to cancer.
Me: What is your creative process like when starting a new illustration project, and how do you approach the ideation phase?
Jen: I sometimes doodle and an idea would pop into my mind, I use procreate, Adobe illustrator and at times photo shop. I also love traditional art pencil to sketch pad. Which is how I first started drawing. Old fashioned way.
Me: How do you keep up with the latest trends and developments in the graphic illustration industry, and what resources do you rely on?
Jen: I am a fan of Pinterest, so I look at ideas and at time gain inspiration.
Me: Can you walk us through the tools and software you use to create your illustrations, and how has your workflow evolved over time?
Jen: The challenge I faced was getting my art noticed but by constantly sharing, posting and hours of time put into creating I’ve succeeded.
Me: What do you think are the key skills that every graphic illustrator should possess, and how do you stay sharp in those areas?
Jen: I think that the ability to think out of the box is important. Exploring different styles of art. The variety and techniques are endless. My secret is practice and dedicate time to perfection. An illustrator must be imaginative and be able to apply that into their work.
Me: How do you manage client relationships and ensure that their needs and expectations are met throughout the illustration process?
Jen: I spend time with my clients discussing at length every aspect of their needs and I offer advice as well.
Me: How do you balance the business side of being a freelance illustrator with your creative work, and what advice do you have for other freelancers in the industry?
Jen: I work with a planner which I religiously follow. I balance my time according to the schedule. Find it so much easier.
Me: What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about the graphic illustration industry, and how do you think those can be dispelled?
Jen: The largest misconception of all time is that graphic designing is childish and also very easy to do.
Me: Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring graphic illustrators who are just starting out, and what qualities do you think are essential for success in this field?
Jen: My advice would be create your own style, constructive criticism always helps, be confident and believe in your talent. Don’t give up practice makes perfect.
You can find her on @Zing Pandora
What an inspiring read. Importance of having a mom who supports you, your career and life plans is undeniable.
As a fellow illustrator, I loved this post and learning about Jen! I’ll definitely be looking out for her on socials and for her artwork.
I love art and it is just so much fun when you have a passion for art. You get to be creative with it. Nice to meet you, Jen!
Wow, she is awesome. It would be great to be able to work with her for my online business.
This is great, sharing an artist and their work. I love those digital designs of women. Very talented.
Wow! She is truly so talented!! I’m always in awe of artists. I love that she followed her passions!
Digital illustration is a charming mode of expression. Love James work and will follow her on social media. The story is indeed inspiring
Jen, not James
I love Jen’s talent. I wish I have a family that supports me like this. Talent + Family Support = easy success.
Aaawww…thank you for this inspiration, Jen! What would the world we are living in today do without graphic designing? You people drive this world literally.
Wow so amazing! I wish I could do that! She’s so talented and I love that she’s inspired by her kids! I bet they had the best school projects growing up!
These illustrations are gorgeous wow!!! Jen is very talented, amazing work….
I absolutely LOVE her art as well. SO inspiring and SO cute! I enjoyed it greatly, she captures the sense of her models
I love this artist! Great post
Her story is so inspiring and her work is so very cool.. It proves to me that I can still continue to pursue my own dreams as well..
Digital illustration is a charming mode of expression. Love James work and will follow her on social media. The story is indeed inspiring
What am inspirational story, loved Jens work and it looks beautiful.
The illustrations that Jen has created are really good. She really has a talent for creating great characters through her art. It’s interesting to hear Jen uses Pinterest for inspiration, I find it helpful too.