Finding a job
Art and illustration
Research shows that freelance and small businesses make up most of the creative industries. However, you can go into many different areas, particularly within the creative arts and design sector. Employers outside of the creative industries are also keen to recruit art and illustration graduates into their design departments, so keep an open mind!
Who recruits art and illustration graduates?
The range of employers who recruit in these areas includes:
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advertising agencies
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marketing agencies
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publishers
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graphic design companies
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web design or animation companies
Self-employment
Most illustrators are self-employed and generate their own work based on client needs. Paid vacancies are rarely advertised.
Potential clients can include advertising agencies, design consultancies, publishers, print (newspapers and magazines) and events management companies. Other areas that you may work on as a freelance illustrator include:
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film posters
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billboards
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greetings cards
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packaging
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fine art posters
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animated commercials, television shows, short films or government information services (including health and education)
Get advice on starting or growing a business from our Student Startup Team.
Where to start your job search
Arts Culture Media
The best jobs in theatre, music, museums, dance, marketing and PR, visual arts, media and culture. Clients include virtually all the major theatres, festivals, art galleries, arts venues and museums in the UK.
Creativepool
Online networking site for people working within the creative industries. Allows you to set up a personal profile with which to network online as well as listing advertised vacancies.
MyCareer
The University's online careers platform is where you will be able to find graduate jobs across different sectors and locations.
The Association of Illustrators
Provides a listing of agents, awards and events.
Useful X (Twitter) feeds
Check out the following X (previously Twitter) feeds for news and information about current projects and to tap into the hidden jobs market.
Tips for finding a job
Most of the jobs are not advertised in the traditional way, so be proactive with your search and apply speculatively. Here are some tips to gain access to the hidden jobs market:
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Keep up to date with art and illustration news by following the professional bodies on X (Twitter). This information might help you identify opportunities to network and tap into the hidden job market.
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Keep your online job search flexible as some employers might use different titles to describe the same job role.
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If you are keen to focus on a specific sector check out the specialist websites for these areas for current vacancies
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Approach design agencies directly, even if they are not advertising vacancies, send your CV and your online portfolio anyway, it may lead to something
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Most companies have an X (Twitter), LinkedIn and/or Facebook account. Register with them as this is often a place where new opportunities are posted and where you can keep in touch with their current activities.
Are you looking for a role in Hampshire? Our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy can help!
If you're in the final year of your degree, you can register for support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy. They work with over 3,000 employers in the local area to place our students into fantastic graduate careers.
