Podcast Summary: The Good Ship Illustration – Episode “Help! I found my illustration style… and I don’t like it”

Release Date: June 13, 2025
Hosts: Helen Stephens, Katie Chappell, and Tania Willis

Introduction

In this episode of The Good Ship Illustration, the hosts Helen, Katie, and Tania tackle two pressing questions from their listeners. The first concerns an illustrator who feels dissatisfied with their supposedly discovered style, and the second explores the necessity of understanding the color wheel and color theory in illustration.

Listener Question 1: “I found my illustration style… and I don’t like it”

Timestamp: [00:25] - [07:08]

Lisa's Dilemma:
Lisa expresses frustration over identifying her illustration style, only to find it "too normal" and mainstream. She wonders, “What can you do if you don't like your style?” ([00:25]).

Hosts' Insights:

1. Stage of Development:

   • Katie ([00:45]): Suggests that Lisa hasn't truly found her style yet since true discovery should bring satisfaction. Her ongoing dissatisfaction indicates there's more work to be done.

2. Identifying Dislikes:

   • Tania ([02:17]): Emphasizes the importance of pinpointing what exactly Lisa dislikes about her style. Is it too literal? Does it lack texture? Understanding specific elements can guide improvement.

3. Authenticity vs. Market Expectations:

   • Helen ([03:45]): Shares a mentoring experience with illustrator Emma Tripolone, who initially tailored her work to what she perceived publishers wanted. Upon guidance, Emma removed less exciting drawings from her portfolio, leading to greater authenticity and publisher interest.
   • Katie ([04:06]): Highlights Chris Horton's journey of staying true to his unique style by seeking international publishers, ultimately gaining recognition for his distinctive approach.

4. Freak Flag Philosophy:

   • Helen ([04:16]): Advocates for "flying your freak flag," meaning embracing and showcasing one's unique style rather than conforming to market demands.
   • Katie ([06:21]): Discusses the mindset shift from viewing illustration purely as a vocation to embracing it as a form of creativity, free from the constraints of pleasing others.

5. Technical Skill vs. Creative Expression:

   • Tania ([07:12]): Challenges the notion that technical perfection equates to a "good drawing," arguing that expressive and playful approaches can be more appealing and distinctive.

Notable Quotes:

• "You can’t have found your style but not like it. You've obviously done a lot of work towards it, but you're not there yet." — Katie ([00:45])
• "We’re all slight variants, micro variants, even within our portfolio. And you want to know what style of you do they want." — Tania ([11:20])

Listener Question 2: “Do you need to understand or use the color wheel or color theory to be an illustrator?”

Timestamp: [12:01] - [21:39]

Freya's Inquiry:
Freya questions the necessity of mastering the color wheel and color theory, noting that she often works intuitively without formal study. She asks, “Am I missing out?” and whether illustrators should decide on a color palette before starting a piece or work more spontaneously. ([12:01])

Hosts' Insights:

1. Understanding vs. Intuition:

   • Tania ([12:28]): Assures that while understanding the color wheel is beneficial, it's not mandatory. Intuitive color sense is valuable and can form part of an illustrator's signature style. However, without planning, it might lead to overwhelming or unharmonious color choices.

2. Planned Color Swatches:

   • Tania ([12:28]): Recommends creating color swatches and deciding on the emotional tone of an illustration beforehand. For example, the color palette for a map of Mexico would differ vastly from that of Norway to convey distinct geographical and emotional vibes.

3. Workshops and Practical Application:

   • Helen ([14:18]): Mentions their free color workshop available on their website, which helps illustrators explore and develop their color identities.
   • Katie ([14:31]): Shares her transformative experience from the color workshop, emphasizing the impact of learning to mix colors and use neutrals effectively.

4. Digital vs. Traditional Coloring:

   • Tania ([15:51]): Discusses the challenges of digital coloring, where the ease of selecting any color can lead to inconsiderate and jarring palettes. She advocates for mixing colors traditionally on paper to achieve more organic and harmonious results before digitizing them.

5. Limited Color Palettes:

   • Katie ([19:40]): Explains the benefits of limiting a color palette to a few base colors, allowing for harmonious mixing and preventing palette oversaturation. This approach fosters consistency across illustrations and enhances brand recognition.

6. Practical Tips:

   • Helen ([20:34]): Suggests limited palette strategies, such as using three tubes of paint and mixing desired colors from them to maintain harmony.
   • Katie ([21:07]): Reiterates the importance of understanding and applying color theory through practical exercises rather than rote learning.

Notable Quotes:

• “Having an intuitive sense to color is part of your personality and part of your signature style.” — Tania ([12:28])
• “Perfect drawings just kill things, don't they?” — Tania ([07:54])
• “Your color workshop changed everything for me.” — Katie ([15:34])
• “It's like being trapped in a room full of shouty people and you wonder why they're not working.” — Tania ([15:51])

Conclusions and Final Thoughts

The episode underscores the importance of authenticity and intentionality in an illustrator's journey. Whether grappling with dissatisfaction in one's artistic style or navigating the complexities of color usage, the hosts advocate for a balance between technical skill and creative expression. Embracing one's unique voice and making informed, deliberate choices in color can lead to a more fulfilling and recognizable career in illustration.

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity Matters: Staying true to your unique style attracts genuine interest and opportunities.
• Identify and Address Dissatisfaction: Pinpoint specific aspects you dislike about your style to guide improvement.
• Color Planning Enhances Harmony: Whether intuitive or studied, a planned approach to color fosters consistency and emotional resonance in illustrations.
• Limit Palettes for Consistency: Restricting color choices can maintain harmony and strengthen personal branding.
• Continuous Learning: Engaging in workshops and practical exercises can significantly enhance your skills and creative confidence.

For more insights and resources, visit The Good Ship Illustration website and explore their free color workshop under the "Freebies" section.

End of Summary