Cat Willett
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I am an illustrator based in Brooklyn, NY. ”
I focus on making drawings that empower women, the community, and small businesses. I work in digital and traditional media and love to explore unconventional ways of bringing good art to the masses.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I studied fine art in college before moving to the Big Apple. Since moving to Brooklyn 5 years ago, I've participated in countless illustration projects and am currently finishing my MFA in Illustration at the Fashion Institute of Technology. I've also worked as a curator for the past few years, scouting talent for a tech company and working on public art activations, editorial work, and events.
How do you stand out in your field?
I research everything I do and love to draw on historical context when I'm making something. I'm adaptable, and as a Gemini, not only do I value communication above all else, but I can usually understand both sides of the coin :)
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
A book of female pioneers throughout history who were revolutionaries in their respective fields. And have a few freelance projects going on in the background.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I love clean, bold lines, and flat, vivid color.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Learning. I wish I had time to take more classes, tutorials, etc. The internet has made so many resources available to everyone and I wish I had more time to take advantage of the wealth of knowledge that's out there.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Instagram's stupid algorithm. I get most of my commissions through social media, and IG is making it harder than ever for people to find each other.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
IG marketing, packing print orders (no one likes going to the post office).
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
"Trust the process"
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Delicate ways to avoid compromising an artistic vision when working with a strong-willed client.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Projects that empower women, that highlight impactful members of the community, that make people feel strong and happy.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
More murals!
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
It depends on the project. To gauge a project rate, I need to know how my images will be used, how many images are required, project timeline, and how the project will be promoted.
WHO IS A CREATIVE THAT HAS HELPED YOU ELEVATE YOUR WORK?
Monika Maniecki, monikamaniecki@gmail.com, an illustrator, my thesis advisor, and a lovely person.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Please email me with proposals and include as many details about the project as possible.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
I read a lot of books and always work with music playing!
This member profile was originally published in February 2019, Updated May 2020, Updated April 2023.