I’m Isabelle Staub, a professional illustrator with a passion for creative storytelling and helping fellow artists develop their own paths in the world of illustration. Whether you’re a company seeking to elevate your brand with custom artwork or an aspiring artist looking for insight into the industry, you’ve come to the right place.
Today, I want to explore the intersection between art and business, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities illustrators face in today’s ever-changing creative landscape.
The Power of Art in Brand Development
In a world saturated with visuals, standing out from the crowd is essential for any brand. Custom illustration has become a powerful tool for companies to connect emotionally with their audience. From the toy industry to entertainment giants, brands like MGA, Far Out Toys, and even platforms like Netflix and Hulu have increasingly leaned on illustrations to bring their stories to life.
The beauty of illustration is that it allows for unlimited creativity. It breaks boundaries and delivers a message that words alone cannot achieve. As an artist, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with clients who want to evoke joy, nostalgia, and connection through my designs. Whether it’s character design, packaging, or marketing assets, custom art allows brands to express their personality and values in a way that resonates deeply with their audience.
For businesses considering custom illustrations, think about the emotions you want to evoke. Do you want your audience to feel excited, playful, or inspired? Art can communicate these emotions on a visceral level. Collaborating with an illustrator is not just about creating something visually appealing but ensuring it aligns with your brand’s goals.
Lessons for Aspiring Artists: How to Make Your Art Your Business
For aspiring illustrators, turning your art into a business requires both creative and strategic thinking. One thing I emphasize in my digital painting course is that success as an artist isn’t just about mastering techniques—it's also about understanding how to market yourself and diversify your income streams.
Here are some tips that have helped me grow my illustration career:
1. Find Your Niche
While it's tempting to try everything at once, I found that focusing on a niche has allowed me to stand out in the industry. My viral Disney reimagined series, where I recreated iconic characters as humans, helped me tap into a specific audience and gain exposure on platforms like Good Morning America. Don’t be afraid to lean into the projects and themes that excite you the most. Your passion will shine through your work and attract the right audience.
2. Diversify Your Income
As much as I love client work, I’ve found that having multiple income streams allows for greater financial stability. I sell digital products like Procreate brushes, prints, and apparel on my website, and I’ve also ventured into teaching. In today’s digital age, platforms like social media and print-on-demand sites make it easier than ever to monetize your skills in creative ways. If you’re interested, I dive deeper into this in my latest Instagram reel on making money as an illustrator.
3. Build a Brand, Not Just a Portfolio
In today’s competitive market, your art needs to be more than a portfolio—it needs to tell a story about who you are as a creative. This is why I’m currently rebranding my business to better reflect my style and expertise. Your brand should speak to both your artistic vision and your professionalism. Think about how your name, your social media presence, and the way you communicate with potential clients can contribute to your overall image.
A Partnership with Purpose
For companies looking to collaborate, I pride myself on creating art that not only meets the brief but also elevates the brand’s voice. I see my work as a partnership, where we work together to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for character designs, visual assets, or a full creative campaign, I’m dedicated to delivering artwork that’s tailored to your brand’s specific needs.
For aspiring artists, remember: art and business go hand in hand. By building a strong foundation in both, you can achieve the freedom to create while sustaining a successful career. If you’re interested in working with me or learning more about my creative journey, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Thank you for visiting, and stay tuned for more tips, insights, and updates!