Errrr, how do you find illustration work in 2025? Pitching? Instagram? Postcards? SEO?

In this nice an' juicy episode we’re answering the 'Heeelp, how do I find clients as an illustrator?' question.

• What works
• Why we don’t “hunt” clients 😅
• SEO tips to help the right people trip over you
• How to be pals with art directors
• Pitching can feel YUCK (but it doesn't have to)
• Old-skool stuff that still works
• SHOW YOUR WORK, PLEASE

Timestamps, for people who like that sort of thing: 00:00 – Listener question: “How do I find clients?”
01:00 – Why “hunting” clients feels weird (and what to do instead)
02:30 – Laying out your stall: making your online presence irresistible
04:30 – SEO tips to help clients find you
05:15 – The rise and fall of illustration directories and annuals
06:45 – Do postcards still work? (Short answer: yes!)
08:10 – Instagram, visibility and staying top of mind
10:00 – DMs and the etiquette of messaging clients
12:00 – What not to do when reaching out
13:30 – Building genuine relationships over time
15:00 – Do you need an agent or gallery?
16:00 – How to sell your own work (without a gallery)
17:00 – Strategic competitions and why they matter
18:00 – Cards, shops and flinging mud (yes, really)

Links we mentioned:

• World Illustration Awards
• Jo Overend
• Picture Hooks Mentoring
• Good Ship Illustration Courses

Byeeee for now!

x The Good Ship Illustration (Helen, Katie & Tania)

Come and say hello!

✏️ @thegoodshipillustration
🌏 www.thegoodshipillustration.com

p.s. We love answering your illustration questions. Click here to submit your question for The Good Ship Illustration Podcast 🎙