Dream projects happen – get seen and be prepared

Another ‘dream project’ just happened for one the our Directory of Illustration artists. The artist wanted me to know about this project after her illustrations were seen in the Directory book and website. She asked me about signing a ‘non-disclosure agreement’ with this client. I think it’s a good question that I would like to address with everyone.

Some projects will require client confidentiality and you may be asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement, often referred to as NDA. It protects sensitive information, builds trust and should not be taken personally…which is all good. Signing a non-disclosure and/or non-compete agreement is just part of doing business and is okay to do as long as you understand the terms and rules.

There are several places to read up on this facet of your business and even make your own NDA so it’s ready when that dream client comes calling.

Projects that will use an artist’s life long skills & passion and give their career a purpose happen all the time. Many artists never realize their infinite possibility unless they market themselves extensively. By doing so they will have a better chance of being seen and getting hired.

Carla Bauer's woodcut illustration from her Directory of Illustration portfolio

The Directory of Illustration offers an international marketing campaign to empower you to reach extraordinary art directors, publishers, editors, etc. Many art directors require serious time and consideration to hire the right artist for their project – I often see this with projects that are more prestigious and/or have a bigger audience or budget.

To create your own NDA try this site: https://www.rocketlawyer.com/form/non-disclosure-agreement.rl

For more information: https://www.rocketlawyer.com/article/to-sign-or-not-to-sign:-what-to-do-if-asked-to-sign-a-nda.rl

You can also refer to the Graphic Artists Guild: https://graphicartistsguild.org/tools_resources/contractors-copyright-licensing

Bottom line: Get seen and be prepared - they may just choose YOU!!

How much are YOU willing to put into your illustration career?

I've known and worked with illustrator Steve Noble for 19 years straight. In honor of his never ending dedication to his illustration career I'm posting a recent article from the respected National Museum of Creative Arts publication ASCENDER which interviews Steve in regards to his commitment to an effective career. There is always something to be learned from this kind of success.

Recently Kraken Rum released three new advertising spots which Steve said were individually hand drawn in the old engraving woodcut style and supplied digitally to the animators. The 3 spots aired during the ESPN March Madness included Existence, Strength and Survival. You'll enjoy these Kraken Rum Illustration Animations. "Release the Kraken!"

The Kraken octopus was illustrated over a supplied wire frame with different Photoshop layers applied for the shadows.

Other favorites are the new logos Steve was commissioned for when he worked on the new redesigned Got Milk campaign.

  “Got Milk” website and commercial national TV spots.

Steven Noble’s Scratchboard, Line Art, Woodcut and Engraving artwork is internationally recognized. He illustrated the back of the $1 bill, refreshed the White House logo and is the artist behind American Express’ centurion.