We are so proud of our Make Art That Sells Alumni, and we are pleased to feature a series of spotlight interviews showcasing their successes and artwork. We’ve asked them to share how the MATS courses have helped them learn and grow. You can see more Alumni Success stories here
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Today, we have an interview with Inga Knopp-Kilpert. Inga has taken MATS A, MATS B, Illustrating Children’s Books and Bootcamp.
Tell us a little about how you got started in art and design
I studied graphic design and than worked as an art director for twelve years in several advertising agencies. In my free time i illustrated and made some exhibitions which had been very successful. I felt more and more that illustration would be the right business for me so i left my advertising career and started my freelance business as an illustrator. Luckily i had my very first project for an agency. Since 2010 i am working for gift books, children’s books, advertising agencies and companies.
Lilla always says “People buy your joy.” What brings you joy?’
I love to make paper collage, this analog technique gives me such a joy. I love to create funny creature which make me smile.
Which is your favorite market(s) to design for and why?
My favorite markets are children’s books and gift books. To create characters and give them a whole surrounding is very good, i can imagine how they would like to l I’ve and what they are wearing. Gift book market is more decorative and with single pieces. I would love to get more work for the Home Decor market.
What are you working on currently?
Currently I am working on my portfolio to try out new things and to get fresh work to show. I am keeping a sketch book which I really love. It gives me a kind of every day art frame to be filled with ideas and pictures. I can go to a coffee bar and get some inspiration. That is always a good place to make some pattern sketches.
What are some of the key things you have learnt from the MATS experience?
My key things that I have learned? That I can do work for different markets. That I can break down a huge project into small steps. The MINI assignments are very helpful.
How have the classes helped your artwork evolve /grow?
The classes helped me evolving my style! I loved to show my work inside the Facebook group and get some very nice comments, I felt that my style is unique and powerful. Especially the Children’s Book live course gave me so many good inspirations and information.
Any aha moments during MATS you would like to share?
My aha moments were during ICB class when I learned how to make a storyboard, finding different point of views of one sentence and to work hard to find a special solution of an image. The development of characters and their emotions were very helpful steps during class.
What are your key successes since taking a MATS class?
Since taking MATS class I know that my illustrations are strong and unique to get some new projects. Now I have to sent them out and aquire new work. I feel very confident with my own personal style.
How would you describe taking a MATS class to a fellow artist looking to develop their art?
Taking MATS courses helped me evolving my style, making art every day and gave me a huge background information for different markets. Especially the Live class was very productive and intense.
What is your dream gig for your artwork?
I would really love to get new children’s books project, that would be fantastic.
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Would you like to experience the Make Art That Sells classes yourself? Browse our live and self-paced classes here
Graduates of our courses have gone on to win work from clients such as Hallmark, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Oopsy Daisy, Uppercase Magazine, West Elm, Midwest CBK, and more. It is industry learning that works in the real world. Find out more HERE and start today!
