Bhavya Arora : Graphic designer

Why are you an Illustrator?

I loved art and craft as a kid and wanted to be a part of design industry. The decision of being an illustrator came gradually by ruling out what I did not want to do.

Did you attend school for fine art or design?

I did not. I am a self-taught Illustrator/Graphic Designer who quit her IT job to pursue a career in visual design.

You have a distinct style of illustration. How long did it take you to develop your style?

When I started illustrating, I saw that famous illustrators have their own style and I wanted to have one myself. With time, I realized that illustration style is something that develops and evolves with experience. The work I’d be doing in 5 years would not be in the same style I have currently. To keep practicing and learning is the key to developing your style, and I believe I am just halfway there.

Were there any particular role models for you when you grew up?

My elder brothers. They inspired me to explore and keep an open mind as a kid.

Who was the most influential personality on your career in Illustrations?

For lack a specific answer, I would say my friends. If not for their encouragement, I might not have gotten into illustration as a career. But I really think that we are lucky to be in a time where so many people are doing wonderful work in design and are able to showcase it online. More than anything, I was inspired from such works and felt a need to display my own creativity.

You also do a good bit of graphic designing work. Tell us something about it. What do you enjoy more?

Yes. I do graphic design work for marketing agencies. I also design book covers. While I do enjoy Graphic design, my heart lies with illustration.

What made you decide to become a freelance illustrator? When did you start freelancing? Do you illustrate for advertising?

I wasn’t happy with my IT job and design was the thing that made me happy. I just wanted to be a part of the industry, be it full time or as a freelancer. I have been working as a freelancer for about 1.5 years now. I am still open to be working as a full time illustrator or a graphic designer for a firm.

Yes, I do illustrate for advertising. It is majorly for social media advertising.

Are many advertising agencies getting illustrations made these days? Do you work more with agencies or publishers?

Yes, I find that advertising agencies have woken up to the need for their designs to be appealing and have special recall with their customers. I work with both.

Was there any time when you wanted to quit Illustrations?

Not at all. I quit my IT job to get into illustration. I am here to stay 

Any other Indian Illustrators who you admire?

There are so many of them! To name a few, I really like Chaaya Prabhat’s work. Also Vidhi Khandelwal’s work. She makes amazing guache florals.

You have such a wide experience as a top working professional. What advice do you have for aspiring creative professionals? Would you advise them to take on Illustration as a career option? Is it paying well enough?

My advice would be to do what you love. Don’t get into illustration for money. Do it only if it is something you really want to do.
As a freelancer, you get what you work for. More work = more money.

Whats your dream project?

Illustrating for Children’s books.