BLAKE KATHRYN THOMAS

DESIGNER + ILLUSTRATOR

West Los Angeles, CA

blakekathryn.com
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Ello

WHAT DO YOU DO?

“I’m a designer and illustrator, sneaking in bright colors and happy vibes into as many projects as I can. ”

My work is heavily influenced by surrealism and pop art, spanning from minimal 2D iconography to intricate 3D compositions. I've worked with clients from all backgrounds including musicians, small businesses and tech companies.

WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?

Before going full-time freelance I practiced often in my after work hours. By sharing my passion projects through social channels over time I was able to attract side gigs by evening (and eventually by day), as well as meet digital acquaintances that became IRL friends.

FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?

Often it's missing that extra dose of passion that leads people to settle instead of blindly dive into and better their work.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?

I'm currently designing a series of illustrations for an editorial site, working with a brewery to re-design their brand and labels, as well as developing artwork for a few musicians.

WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?

I love creating minimal, often abstract pieces that exude a positive air. If I could pass the days designing more work in the essence of this and this my heart would be so full.

WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?

I'd love to put more focus into my animation abilities, my time for personal projects has been tight lately and it's one of those skills that really calls for that.

WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?

Emails! Seriously, how does anyone achieve inbox zero?

IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?

Aid in developing mood boards + concept decks, as well as handle initial email conversations. The early stages of projects generally follow the same process and can be quite time consuming for one gal.

LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?

To find what inspires you and pursue that. During college I put a heavy focus on being marketable and landing a solid start to a commercial design career. A few years later I took a step back and began to focus on work that made me creatively satisfied, leading to such a professional and personal fulfillment.

IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?

Pricing and setting long-term business plans. Being a freelancer you are your own business and the mystery encapsulating these topics I strongly feels put a limit on the independent creative industry more than help it evolve.

WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

I enjoy working on projects that are fresh or experimental to a brand, often that leads to shorter-lived social media pieces but I'm totally open on the scope of a project! Breaking brand rules is always an exciting time – I've been fortunate enough to shake things up with Western Digital and Adore Me recently.

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.

I've been itching to work on a project that's medium is an environmental space. It's too commonplace for people to experience artwork from the control of a personal device, making it harder to authentically connect to the audience.

WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?

Not to sound cliche but it depends on the project's scope. I'm open to both hourly and flat project rates.

HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?

A hello via email accompanied by a token emoji or GIF is always the best! The conversation will naturally lead into project specifics, but it's equally important to know our personalities will compliment each other from the start.

HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?

Experiencing more off the screen

Blake Kathryn Thomas