Milan-based illustrator Giulia Giovannini has a charming style that adds a touch of joy to every project she works on. We recently collaborated to create an illustrated logo for Mr Eion Coffee Roaster. To get better acquainted, I asked Giulia 10 questions about her life and livelihood.
1. How did you get started as an illustrator?
I started my career as a translator and developed a passion for translating children books while working in the publishing industry. When approaching a translation you come in close contact with the text and its inner meanings, and I was particularly drawn to the illustrations as a powerful means of communication. Could you imagine a children’s book without its illustrations? I felt like I could really help tell people's stories, so I gave it a shot.
2. What are your go-to tools for illustrating?
I like to just rough-sketch digitally on Adobe Photoshop with my Cintiq and other times with my ipad.
3. What’s the last thing you drew?
A room inundated by morning sun rays coming through a window.
4. What are the best and worst bits about your job?
Absolute best is when people appreciate what you’ve created, especially if you’re lucky enough to work with children. The worst is last minute changes!
5. Using a movie title, how would you describe your life?
Giulia’s A Series of Unfortunate Events
6. How did you learn the business side of being a freelance illustrator?
I owe a lot to the internet and its incredible tools. I joined the AOI to get me started and the rest I’ve gathered mainly through social media and collectives like Random Colors run by Emil Paun.
7. What’s been your biggest career fail and what did you learn from it?
One word, ergonomics! I found myself neglecting my posture while working and that resulted in a significant setback for me, both mentally and physically. So don’t forget to always mind your posture.
9. For anyone looking to commission an illustrator, what are your tips for a successful collaboration?
My suggestion would be to spare the time for a video call. Illustrators are visual ghostwriters, we are there to help visualize your story, therefore we are visual beings. Also, remember to pay illustrators handsomely.
10. Now that drawing is your full-time gig, do you still draw for fun?
Well, believe it or not, I like to paint frescos.
Give Giulia a follow on Instagram and check out more of her work here
