Do you think I should go back to school for art ?

Question

I wanted to be an illustrator, and start my own comic book, but I had to quit college and make money for my family. Now I have the chance to go back, is this a good idea ? What kind of money can I make from cartoons ?

Answer 1

Quite honestly, I believe that with time and effort you would very well be able to create your own comic book. You do not necessarily need to go back to college to achieve this. Many newspapers allow for comics to be submitted and the best ones are published. Although, it may not be exactly what you're looking for it's a great way to get your name out there. At first, you will start out not making any money. But you never know who is reading those papers. If they like your stuff they can turn it into something much more famous then a small part in the back of the newspaper.

To answer your questions exactly I would not suggest going back to college for this. The talent an illustrator like yourself must have cannot necessarily be taught in schools. You will save much more money if you do not go to back to college and instead continue working, just set aside time to work on your comics. Share your work with the world! i hope everything works out for you.

Answer 2

It's a very tough and competitive business, but if you are talented and determined you can do it.

Going back to art school would be a good choice if you want to develop your skills and style in the environment of other artists. The advantage there is you get practice, gain new insight and techniques, get exposed to new ideas you may not have considered, and have time to develop strong pieces to add to your portfolio. You might also make some contacts that could help you later in the industry, and a degree and school name recognition can be an advantage if you have a goal of working for an agency or in-house art department.

However you sound like you want to do more independent creative work (i.e. publishing your own comic or freelance illustration and cartooning). If you feel your skills and artwork are marketable right now, you don't necessarily need a degree to get work. A lot depends on the strength of your portfolio.

Get the Artist's & Designers Market 2007 (they update it every year) at your favorite book store. It has contact information, submission guidelines, and estimated pay for artwork for almost every artistic market (magazines, newspapers, greeting card companies, etc.).

The is also the Graphic Artist's Guild (GAG) Pricing and Ethics Guidelines book, which has information on recommended industry agreements, contracts, and of course fair pricing.

And to wrap up on a comics note, you can hone your comic skill by publishing an online comic if you have the resources (software, web site space, etc.) to do so. It could be a good way to judge how other like or dislike your work.

Do what makes you happy, and remember nothing beats drawing pictures for a living! Good luck in the future!

Answer 3

yes u should do that but it's is not as easy as 1,2,3.u've to attend the class at least 2 yrs.sometimes u've to create ur own ideas by going outside collecting clues from the people or experienced artists of the same line.school can only provide u the theories.u can make tons of money if u r famous in making ur own comic books which can be on sales local n abroad.

Answer 4

Good idea, but don't go to VCU Art School. Even though they bill themselves as a top-notch art school, they are notorious for milking their students for the money. They will dangle your degree for as long as they think they can continue to get you to pay. Their graduates also really aren't prepared for the "real world". They have something against "commercial" artists for some reason. They'll try to beat the desire to make a living income out of you.

Answer 5

I am thinking and I am thinking and I cannot see your future yet. No you must take a very sensible approach. What matters most is your friends and family. You are a loved person don't go for the bird in the bush. Life is so risky isn't it? I know about risks and they got me good or bad. It is good enough what you have. Boyfriend took his guitar and went to Nashville. He was good but it ate him up. He is broke and has a habit. Life is mainly pure hell for most of us. You are a very lucky man. Do art for your own pleasure only. Risk is great. Hear Me!!!!!!!

Answer 6

Please do enrol in an Art School immediately for a commercial art course. Enough of duties, now live your life a bit too. Make it meaningful - you can use your art skills to express your views and make people aware of issues, apart from satisfying your own creativity.
If you are really creative, you will get opportunities not only with the media, but also in the ad world. You'll know how from the Art Schools themselves.

Answer 7

Do what you gotta do, its your choice. Maybe people will respect your choice. But I'll tell you, this choice is your future. You can't go back at the past. You have to deal with your problem if you ever have a problem what you chose. For me, this is a great deal for me if I get to come back for drawing comics. I'm going to respect whatever is your choice is. But still, its going to be your future. :) good luck!!

Answer 8

Are there actual employment prospects if you do go back and graduate? It doesn't seem like an industry that requires a degree, just talent and experience.

Answer 9

look at stan lee
marvel comics worth billions

Answer 10

If you can be successful at something you love than I bow to you. Please don't pass up that chance, not many people get it!