Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance- Part 4

Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Laura C. who is a first year Media and Animation student at The Art Institute of Orange County. For her report, she was required to interview someone in the Animation Industry to get an idea for the field and the types of jobs that are available.

In the next series of posts, I will share with you the questions she asked me and my responses based on my journey and perspective as a Freelance Artist. Please feel free to comment below with any questions you may have for me, and I would be happy to answer them for you. 

Interview with Michael Voogd - Freelance Artist
Animator – Illustrator – Caricature – Comic Strips – Instructor

http://VoogDesigns.com

How long did it take to get your business up and running?
I realized the first thing I needed was a website to promote myself, and some business cards for my face-to-face meetings. After launching my website I started scanning in my old drawings just for visual stimulation to give viewers a taste of my style. Then I searched sites like craigslist.org for people that needed artist to hire. I was professional in my email responses to their ads, and always included my new website for them to view my work. I knew that if I could get them to reply to my emails, and begin a conversation with them, that I had a chance. And sure enough, within the first week I started receiving personal replies and offers. In fact, two of my current clients I found on craigslist, and I am still working with them 3 years later!

Remember, it’s all about presenting a strong portfolio, and NOT necessarily about having a degree! People don’t care that I have an Associates in Art Degree. What they care about is what they see in my portfolio and what they will expect their projects to look like.

Were there any setbacks?
A-B-C… Always Be Closing. Or put another way, “Always Be Creating”. One thing I learned from my former sales jobs is to keep your “pipeline” full. Which means to always have projects that you are working on, while continuing to pursue new clients. If you just settle on working with your existing clients, you neglect your next paycheck, which you will eventually need. With this mentality, I have been able to avoid potential setbacks.

Is it ever hard to find new clients?
Not when you follow my previous advise. There is ALWAYS a need for ART. Some people have the vision, but it’s the artist that brings the vision to life. I do believe that you should have a specialty, or the art that you prefer to create. BUT, that is when you need to decide how you want to market yourself. In the beginning, I marketed myself (and still do to some extent) in the following areas: Animator, Illustrator, Caricature and Comic Strip Artist. I also am an instructor and teach drawing classes in the local home schooling community to fulfill a need for parents that want their children exposed to art, but don’t know how to draw. Versatility is important. There will be times that caricatures aren’t in demand, or illustrations; in which case you’ll need to market comic strips, or logo design, or tutoring. READ:

READ: Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

"Toon"Into VoogDesigns by Email

Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance- Part 3

Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Laura C. who is a first year Media and Animation student at The Art Institute of Orange County. For her report, she was required to interview someone in the Animation Industry to get an idea for the field and the types of jobs that are available.

In the next series of posts, I will share with you the questions she asked me and my responses based on my journey and perspective as a Freelance Artist. Please feel free to comment below with any questions you may have for me, and I would be happy to answer them for you. 

Interview with Michael Voogd - Freelance Artist
Animator – Illustrator – Caricature – Comic Strips – Instructor

http://VoogDesigns.com

Owning your own business sounds like the dream. What made you want to open your own company rather than taking your talents to a studio?

'Whether you think you can, or think you can't- you're right.'

–Henry Ford 

Back in the late 90’s studios began changing how animators were contracted. Rather than hiring them for a period of years, they hired them per animated picture. When the film was completed, many of these animators got laid off and had to reapply to get onto the next film. In a scramble for these out-of-work artists to make a living, it became very difficult for new talent to get hired by studios when all the veterans were completing for the same jobs. At the time it was still a very young Internet and portfolios still needed to me printed and mailed. It was very discouraging and so I lost interest in my pursuit.

Between 2000 and 2009 I pretty much stopped drawing. I would doodle a little here and there, but nothing serious or consistent. These moments however, reminded me how much I loved to draw and that I was good at it. And it was during these 10 years that the Internet came into it’s own and websites were popping up left and right.

Our habits change when our thinking changes, and this “change” usually happens when you are fed up with a circumstance in your life that you want to improve. This pivotal moment occurred to me in the quiet hours of working a graveyard shift at a company that had me doing unfulfilling and monotonous work. In these hours of frustration, an idea began to take shape. “What is my PASSION and PURPOSE in life? What are the gifts and talents that God has blessed me with? How can I use these gifts to live a happy and rewarding life, while adding value and filling a need in society? I want to draw. I want to CREATE! But how can I earn a living doing what I love.”

So I began thinking this idea through on how to practically make it happen. I realized, “I can draw the images, but what niche do I want to focus on? I know how to create a website to display my artwork, but how will I attract customers? How can I advertise my services on a very limited budget?” You probably already guessed the answer... SOCIAL MEDIA!

With Social Media I could have unlimited viewers! My friends and family would be happy to promote my services to their circles of followers, and best of all…IT’S FREE! My vision was coming together, but more importantly, I BELIEVED I could do it. And with that conviction, I grabbed a composition book and began writing down every idea that came into my head as to how I would make money with my art. Nothing was left off the table. I became a jack-of-all-trades so to speak.

READ: Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance Part 1 and Part 2

"Toon"Into VoogDesigns by Email

Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance- Part 2

Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Laura C. who is a first year Media and Animation student at The Art Institute of Orange County. For her report, she was required to interview someone in the Animation Industry to get an idea for the field and the types of jobs that are available.

In the next series of posts, I will share with you the questions she asked me and my responses based on my journey and perspective as a Freelance Artist. Please feel free to comment below with any questions you may have for me, and I would be happy to answer them for you. 

Interview with Michael Voogd - Freelance Artist
Animator – Illustrator – Caricature – Comic Strips – Instructor

http://VoogDesigns.com

What sparked your interest in animation? What main type of art/animation do you do?

It was the summer of 1988, when my family embarked on a road trip around the United States. At 13 years old I already had a fondness of hand-drawn animation, but it was when we visited the newly constructed Disney MGM Studios in Orlando, Florida that I knew what I wanted to do.

The attraction was called ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’. At the time you were able to watch real Disney Animators at work from behind a glass curtain after viewing a short movie on the process of creating an animated movie. Once I stepped in, it was a slice of heaven for this young artist with a love for cartoons.

I enjoy creating 2-D hand-drawn animation, but also enjoy the visual beauty of what is now being created with CG animation. What these talented animators are able to create with computers is truly amazing. Yet, you must always remember that the software is just a tool. The computer DOES NOT animate a scene on it’s own, just like a pencil doesn’t draw a picture on it’s own. It’s the vision of the artist that uses these tools to create the illusion of life that viewers see on screen.

Read: Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance- Part 1

"Toon"Into VoogDesigns by Email

Advice to a Class from Real World Freelance- Part 1

Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Laura C. who is a first year Media and Animation student at The Art Institute of Orange County. For her report, she was required to interview someone in the Animation Industry to get an idea for the field and the types of jobs that are available.

In the next series of posts, I will share with you the questions she asked me and my responses based on my journey and perspective as a Freelance Artist. Please feel free to comment below with any questions you may have for me, and I would be happy to answer them for you. 

Interview with Michael Voogd - Freelance Artist
Animator – Illustrator – Caricature – Comic Strips – Instructor

http://VoogDesigns.com

Tell me a little more about growing up an artist and your journey into owning your company. Was you family supportive of your artistic ambitions?

From my recollection, it was subtle support. They would often praise my work and encourage me to continue, but I never felt they forced or pushed me to draw. I think they recognized that I enjoyed doing it, and allowed me to embrace that peace and happiness when I would draw.

To their benefit, drawing also makes for a great babysitter when your parents have stuff to get done around the house. It would occupy my interest for hours, allowing my mom to cook dinner and clean the house without being distracted, which I am sure she was grateful for.

But as with any parent that wants the best for their children, as I got older they did encourage me to go to college and earn a degree, just in case I needed something to “fall back on”. So I attended a local community college and earned an Associate in Art Degree right after High School. Simultaneously, I attended the California Art Institute as a way to develop my figure drawing and quick sketch portfolio, which were standard requests when applying to animation studios.

It was during this time that I had my first epiphany. A “degree” means nothing if your portfolio is sub-par. You can receive high grades in all your art classes in college, BUT it really is your PORTFOLIO, the proof of your work that sells you to the studios. Another way to put it is that studios will hire you more on the work in your portfolio, than the grades you received in school.

There was a vast difference between art classes in a local college and that of an art instruction school. Where colleges teach Art History, Color Theory, and drawing pretty shapes with shadows and perspective, the classes at the Art Institute were not based on grades, but developing your work to strengthen your portfolio.

A few years ago, I attended a seminar by a veteran in the Animation Industry who said something in his lecture that I completely agree with. He said, “If you have been told to get a college degree so that you have something to “fall back on”, this is subliminally telling you that you will not succeed.” In essence, you will never put forth your entire effort because you have a safety net; something to fall back on. It’s when you don’t have a choice, when you HAVE TO succeed, that’s when you become intensely focused with unwavering dedication and determination. That’s when you succeed.

"Toon"Into VoogDesigns by Email

VoogDesigns Vocation

vo·ca·tion  

/vōˈkāSHən/

Noun A strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation. A person's employment or main occupation, esp. regarded as particularly worthy and requiring great dedication.

Synonyms calling - profession - occupation

My "Calling"
I wanted to share with you a series of events that helped solidify for me, that I'm headed in the right direction with my vocation. Ever since the first grade I knew that I wanted to draw. In my late teens I created a name and designed a logo for my future company, which is what you'll see on my Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn pages. But I didn't know the relevance it's meaning until recently.

Voogd + Designs
I felt that there was something special that was happening with my company, so I started researching the meaning of my last name and discovered that "Voogd" (originally Vogt) ultimately derives from the Latin [ad]vocatus) or advocate, meaning to exert guardianship or protection over a territory or area of responsibility.

The second half in my company name is "Designs", which is also a synonym for one who "Creates".


My first name is Michael and for many years I have felt empowered by Saint Michael the Archangel, who in the Bible, was the Defender of God (The Creator).


VoogDesigns
Like a puzzle I began connecting what seemed more than a coincidence, and used these three elements to design a new image to represent my company. "Voogd Designs" in Latin is "Advocatus Creatoris", which translates to "Advocate (or Defender) of the Creator".

The Wings pay tribute to Saint Michael the Archangel, from which my first name was given.
The Sword symbolizes the meaning of my last name- "Voogd" (the Defender/Protector).
The Pencil is the tool through which ideas flow, and is held by the Artist, or Creator.

I knew I was born to draw, to create, and I know there are many youth that feel the same way I did when I was in the first grade. Don't fight the gifts and talents that you were blessed with. Sharpen them. Strengthen them. Use them.

Within the next month I will be launching NinjaToons.com which will be an online school for "creatives" that can sharpen their skills in numerous Arts such as Drawing, Painting, Sculpting, Writing and Acting. Parents, if you see these talents in your children, embrace it and encourage them. And VoogDesigns will be an advocate, or "defender of the creators" in this world. 

"Toon"Into VoogDesigns by Email

Exercise Creativity

Go Play. As kids our parents often told us to "Go outside and play." It's not until we become parents ourselves that we fathom the wisdom of their ramblings. While many artistic people believe that it is going outdoors for a run that eases their 'block' in composition, scientific evidence suggests it's physical exercise, or playing.

Musicians, artists and writers say running can aid their creative thinking.  

“Bid me run, and I will strive with things impossible.” (Shakespeare, Julius Caesar).

Physical Exercise, Mood and Creativity
The  ideas was debated in sports science 10-15 years ago that physical exercise could enhance creative thinking. Some scientists found that exercise enhanced creativity occasionally. Other scientists researched the impact of various physical activities on mood and found that for some sports a single session could improve an individual’s mood.

Physical Exercise Enhances Creativity
In 1997, Scientific evidence of a definite link was reported between exercise and creativity – giving some support to the stories of artistic runners. Psychologists found that exercising or playing enhanced an individual’s creativity. Published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (Volume 31, Issue 3), Steinberg and colleagues from Middlesex University, United Kingdom reported findings that mood and creativity were improved by physical exercise independently of each other.

Exercise for Creative Breakthroughs
The Runner’s World Guide to Running states that running ‘helps you to reach creative breakthroughs’ (p.25). Psychological research has found that bodily movement can enhance creative thinking. This supports the belief held by many men and women that going for a run can help them problem solve and overcome mental blocks. Running as a creative outlet can also bring wider benefits to health and wellbeing.

Benefits of Creativity
Studies have shown that there are several wider health and social benefits to creativity. Most creativity experts do agree that the benefits of creative expression include:

• Concentration on creative works strengthen the immune system
• Creativity releases emotions, reduces pain and contributes to repair of physical injury
• Personalised creations – of music, art, storytelling and writing – can lift self-esteem

If exercise can enhance our creativity regardless of our mood and bring such rewards, then let's "Go outside and play!"

"Toon" Into VoogDesigns by Email

Drawing, Dinner and Disney

As I know we are all making our summer plans, I wanted to share with you what VoogDesigns Art Academy has in store for the Summer of 2012.

On the fourth Friday of every month this Summer, we will be hosting an opportunity for parents to celebrate "Date Night"! We'll entertain your kids while you take advantage of 4 romantic hours together. Enjoy a dinner on the beach, be enchanted by a trip to the theater, or simply relax in the quiet.

Here is what we have planned to entertain your kids for 4-FULL HOURS:

• 5:30-6:00 Check-In at VoogDesignStudios
• 6:00-7:00 Draw the featured Disney character (who may even show up!)
• 7:00-7:30 Dinner, Drinks, Dessert and Snacks will be provided
• 7:30-9:00 Watch their favorite Disney Movie on a 12' x 7' Jumbotron Screen!
• 9:00-9:30 The pixie dust has landed and they're ready for Pick-Up
  

Because of the size of the lawn, we're limiting this event to 25 kids, but please feel free to invite your friends and neighbors as well. Registration is $40 per child.

RSVP by June 7th and it's $25/child

Call (805)768-4503 or email VoogDesigns@gmail.com

I hope you are as excited to bring your child(ren) to this "Cinemation Experience" as I'm sure they are. For June 22nd, we will be showing Disney's Aladdin.

Remember to RSVP by June 7th for the 40% Discount!

"Toon"Into VoogDesigns by Email

FREE Caricature Contest

Every week VoogDesigns creates a heart-warming comic strip for our wonderful client Bruce Sallan titled, Because I Said So. Bruce is an author, motivational speaker, radio show host and his most important role, "Dad".

Visit www.BruceSallan.com to view this Comic Strip

Last week Bruce announced on his Radio Show show a "Secret Word", which is the key to entering to win a FREE Color Caricature by VoogDesigns. 

Discover the "Secret Word" and Enter the Contest HERE!

On January 26th from 11:00am-12:00pm PST, VoogDesigns will be a featured guest on his radio program to discuss the comic strip and the contest.  TUNE IN to am1290

To Protect and Serve

Protect and Serve. Two powerful words that remind me to remain honorable and humble.Those who know me may recall a time in my life in which I pursued a career in law enforcement. Last night I had the benefit of receiving an eye-opening education on an important subject matter that unfortunately, is very dark and disturbing. However, it's what you choose to do with the knowledge that makes the difference.

Last night I attended the VIRTUS Certification Training to assist parents, teachers, volunteers and anyone working with children, to be aware of what we can do individually and collectively, to protect God's children. After receiving this certification of training, I choose to use the information in a proactive approach, openly communicating with my students and their parents.

The 5 Steps: A Plan to Protect God's Children

Step 1: Know the Warning Signs- If we know the warning signs, then we can identify potential situations before they happen and do not have to rely on a child to report an incident.

Step 2: Control Access- Controlling access means that we are careful about whom we allow to work with our children.

Step 3: Monitor all Programs- Our classes are held in areas where other adults can always pass by, and we encourage parents to view and monitor our classes at any time.

Step 4: Be Aware- When we observe and communicate with our children, we are more likely to detect any subtle signs of a problem.

Step 5: Communicate Your Concerns- We advocate and encourage open communication with our students and their parents. Only by communicating our concerns can we use our knowledge to protect children.

If you are a parent, teacher, volunteer or an adult that is working with children, I would highly recommend that you participate in this education. There is no charge to attend this 3-hour session, and the knowledge you gain will give you the tools that may prevent another tragedy. 

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you, and help protect God's children. 

Creative Learning

There are many "schools of thought" about improving our educational system today. However, integrating the arts into core academic subjects was the focus of a free workshop this week hosted by the department of teacher education at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.

Below is an excerpt from the article in our local paper, Teachers Learn the Art Way, about the importance of art and the benefits they have on student learning.

"Because it's all about the scores, they want you to just work on the standardized tests and core subjects. Now they're realizing you have to stimulate both sides of the brain, and they're learning that arts draws out dialogue from children and helps improve their reading, writing and critical thinking skills, so it's so exciting to have your craft promoted in the field."