INK for IMPACT: Basics of Book Illustration

8th Feb - 1st March 2025, Saturdays 10.30-12 pm

This comprehensive and progressive course will walk you through all the basics of working as an illustrator, both in a business sense and a creative sense. This is key information for illustrators who are starting out and wondering how to start! We will cover all the essential need-to-knows to get you started, including copyright 101, contracts, agents, marketing, and the rest.

All sessions will be recorded for your reference.

Course outline:

Week 1: Foundations

  • Welcome, and Where Do I Start?
    Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of a professional illustrator's workflow, focusing on essential aspects such as effective time management, the selection of appropriate tools, and strategic project planning. This foundational knowledge will set the stage for the weeks to come.

  • Getting Started:
    This session provides step-by-step guidance on how to enter the book illustration field. Participants will explore various resources and techniques, including sketchbooks, creating sample work, and strategies for building initial career momentum.

  • Digital vs. Traditional Illustration:
    This segment will delve into the unique characteristics of digital and traditional illustration methods. Participants will gain insights into the advantages and limitations of each approach, helping them identify which method best aligns with their personal style and workflow.

  • Q&A Session:
    An interactive live discussion will allow participants to address any questions and challenges they may face as new illustrators, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Week 2: Portfolio Building & Character Design

  • Portfolio Essentials:
    Participants will learn techniques for building a professional portfolio that effectively showcases their unique style and skills. The session will cover important considerations such as content selection, layout design, and how to tailor portfolios for different market audiences.

  • Finding Your Voice:
    This session will focus on helping participants balance their personal authenticity with a marketable style. Students will explore strategies for developing a distinctive voice in their work that resonates with audiences and stands out in the industry.

  • Character Design:
    Participants will delve into the key aspects of character development, learning how to create engaging and relatable characters. The session will emphasise the importance of consistency, expressions, and understanding the target audience.

  • Q&A Session:
    A dedicated time for participants to seek feedback on character design and portfolio-building efforts, allowing for targeted guidance and support.

Week 3: Storytelling & Composition

  • Visual Storytelling:
    This session will teach participants techniques for enhancing narrative impact through illustration. Students will learn how to effectively bring stories to life, engaging readers on a deeper level.

  • Scene Composition:
    Participants will explore layout principles that are essential for creating dynamic and immersive scenes. The session will cover arranging visual elements to capture the audience’s attention and guide their experience.

  • Pacing & Flow:
    This portion will focus on structuring illustrations to create a smooth and coherent reading experience. Participants will learn how to pace their work to ensure that the narrative unfolds in an engaging manner.

  • Emotion in Illustration:
    The final segment of this week will cover techniques for conveying mood and tone through colour, contrast, and character expressions. Participants will learn to evoke emotions in their illustrations, enhancing the storytelling experience.

  • Q&A Session:
    An interactive discussion focused on storytelling and composition, allowing participants to receive constructive feedback on their work.

Week 4: Business Essentials

  • Business Basics:
    Participants will acquire essential knowledge in client management, pricing strategies, contract negotiation, and the logistics of freelancing. This information is vital for successfully navigating the business side of illustration.

  • Copyright Fundamentals:
    This session will provide an overview of copyright laws, helping participants understand how to protect their work and intellectual property rights, which are crucial for their professional development.

  • Digital Tools & AI's Impact:
    Participants will explore the advantages and limitations of various digital tools and discuss the role of artificial intelligence in illustration. They will also gain insights into how these advancements may influence creative professionals in the industry.

  • Q&A Session:
    The final session will focus on professional practices and strategies for long-term growth in the illustration field, providing participants with actionable takeaways for their careers.

Optional Mentorship:
Participants can enhance their learning experience by purchasing a discounted mentorship package. This offers personalised career guidance and addresses individual challenges through one-on-one feedback from Sarah Horne, fostering a deeper understanding of the industry and supporting each participant's unique path.


Pricing:

  1. Ink with Impact course: £199 /£179 for mentees past and present.

    • Includes access to all course materials and live sessions.

    • Opportunity to participate in Q&A sessions.

    • It is ideal for those seeking foundational knowledge without additional support. 


  1. Ink with Impact Course plus 1:1 Mentoring: £329 

    • Includes everything in the Basic Package.

    • Access to recorded sessions for later review.

    •  3 x additional 1:1 mentoring sessions with Sarah Horne. (15% off) sessions by arrangement. 


“... I cannot thank Sarah enough. She has helped me ‘level up’, and I’m looking forward to the direction I’m heading. She is a wonderful teacher, mentor, illustrator and just a fabulous human. Can’t recommend working with her enough, in any capacity! At the very least go and track down some of her work, because it is outstanding 😅

Feeling very lucky for the experience of working with her and for meeting my fellow students. What. A. Week.”

 #illustrator #illustration #childrensbookillustration #mentoring #firstclassteacher #illustrationlevelup

– George Elliot @gkelliottpicsandwords