#estherreads: the WAR of ART

I recently reread this book on a trip to Korea so I thought I would write about it for #estherrreads while it was still fresh(ish) in my brain. When I first read the book a couple years ago it really helped me to understand the ways I self-sabotaged myself from just even drawing every day. It forced me to face up to the excuses I made and also gave some insight in how to overcome them.

This time around as I read the book it was more about how to get to the next level. I have been able to work as a professional creative for several years now and am committed to this path but have been afraid to reach for higher goals. Its hard to admit you are afraid to go up but there is a lot of self-doubt that can come along and this time around the parts of the book addressing that fear really struck me. I feel like I need to reread those parts right now but I left the book at my friend's house in Korea(gosh darnit) and am contemplating re-ordering it.

I think often more than skill and ability the mental toughness required to make a creative career is what prevents people from pursing this path. It really helps to read about how to work as creative. There are so many great books out there. For those just beginning it doesn't have to be so mysterious or opaque read as much as you can! I think it will make all the difference. For those going on a couple years it helps to keep from burning out and for moving up to the next stage. There is never an end to the pursuit of knowledge.

#estherreads : How to Create a Portfolio & Get Hired by Fig Taylor

Although I've been working as an illustrator since 2007 I'm always reading books about illustration, design, freelancing, etc. No matter where you are in your career it's so important to keep learning and staying informed.

Often after I read a book like this I wish that I had read it sooner, like ten years ago sooner. This book is so thorough and a pleasure to read! It's not always a given that an expert in their field is going to be a great writer. This book is gorgeous to look at, super informative and well-written

The book covers so many different styles and industries for designers and illustrators.

Fig Taylor is able to speak from the perspective of what a client will want having worked as an artist agent for over twenty years and has so much insight in how to make sense of the marketplace.

Whether you are just out of school or have been working for a long time I think this book will have something for you.

I recommend reading it thoroughly. Don't just choose the parts that apply to you.

So this is definitely staying on my bookshelf as a reference book and a refresher read from time to time.