In a world where creativity often faces the pressures of deadlines and commercial demands, Kaitlin Brito's approach to illustration is a refreshing reminder of the importance of nurturing one's artistic soul. Her story, a testament to the power of 'pure making,' offers a unique perspective on the creative process and the challenges artists face in balancing commercial work with personal expression.
The Power of Pure Making
Kaitlin's journey began with a moment of creative block, a feeling all too familiar to many artists. She describes it as a scary emptiness, a state where the mind feels depleted and uninspired. It's a moment that can make one question their entire creative identity. But from this low point, Kaitlin emerged with a powerful insight: the need to prioritize personal, unadulterated creation, even when it means sacrificing time dedicated to paid work.
"If I have an idea, or just want to draw my breakfast, I do it. I don't ignore the call to create, because it helps me later by rewiring my mind to see drawing as more than just a job." - Kaitlin Brito
This philosophy is a radical departure from the typical grind of commercial art, where deadlines and client demands often take precedence. Kaitlin's approach is a bold statement: art should be driven by passion and personal expression, not just financial incentives. By setting aside time for 'pure making,' she ensures that her creative well doesn't run dry, and that her paid work benefits from this unfettered creativity.
Unlocking Creative Freedom
Kaitlin's tool of choice, a simple black ink pen, is a fascinating example of how constraints can lead to creative freedom. As an overthinker and perfectionist, she finds that the pen's irreversibility forces her to embrace a more spontaneous, intuitive style. It's a fascinating psychological insight: by limiting her options, she frees herself from the paralysis of choice and the pressure to create 'perfect' work.
"I've never considered it a constraint. It's a key to unlocking a freer part of my brain." - Kaitlin Brito
This approach is a powerful reminder that sometimes, less is more. By simplifying her tools and process, Kaitlin taps into a deeper, more authentic creative voice. It's a strategy that many artists could benefit from, especially in an era where digital tools and endless options can lead to creative overwhelm.
Finding Wonder in the Ordinary
A key theme in Kaitlin's work is her ability to find magic and wonder in everyday, mundane subjects. Whether it's a piece about beans for NPR or a sticker sheet featuring vintage trinkets, she transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. This skill is a testament to her unique perspective and ability to see the world through a lens of curiosity and whimsy.
"Drawing was always my favourite thing. Even as a child, my paintings were outlines. I've always wanted to make work that feels warm and exciting, like images in a picture book that make your eyes linger." - Kaitlin Brito
This approach is a powerful tool for any artist or creator. By finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Kaitlin's work resonates with a wide audience, offering a fresh perspective on familiar subjects. It's a strategy that can help artists stand out and connect with their audience on a deeper level.
Maintaining Analogue Charm in a Digital World
When working digitally, Kaitlin goes to great lengths to maintain the charm and imperfection of traditional, handmade work. Her rules for digital illustration are a fascinating insight into her creative process: she chooses brushes that don't smooth or uniform lines, and she avoids redrawing lines, instead filling in uneven sections as she would on paper. This approach ensures that her digital work retains the warmth and character of traditional art, a strategy that many digital artists could learn from.
"I try my best not to redraw a line more than once. It mimics the charm of analogue, can't-undo-your-mistakes work." - Kaitlin Brito
Navigating Client Briefs and Editorial Work
Kaitlin's approach to client work is characterized by a desire for genuine collaboration and an understanding of her unique artistic voice. She's learned to spot briefs that won't deliver this back-and-forth, and her strategy for unclear briefs is to open up the floor for discussion, gauging the client's true interests and vision. This approach ensures that her work remains authentic and aligned with her creative vision.
When it comes to editorial work, Kaitlin finds a unique challenge and enjoyment. She embraces the opportunity to rely more on concept than look, and her process of reading drafts and pulling out visual elements is a fascinating insight into her creative problem-solving.
"It's a bit like grouping puzzle pieces together before I can see how they'll fit." - Kaitlin Brito
Nostalgia, AI, and the Future of Illustration
Kaitlin's nostalgic, whimsical style is a timely reminder of the enduring appeal of sentimentality in art. In an era where nostalgia is having a moment in illustration, she feels confident that her work speaks to a deeper, timeless theme: the wonder and excitement we all once had and still crave. Her perspective on AI image tools is one of evolving confidence: initially seen as a threat, she now feels reassured by the continued demand for human-made, bespoke art.
"I'm no longer as worried about AI. Watching brands commission human-made art and audiences respond positively reassures me." - Kaitlin Brito
The Long Game: Success and Self-Care
Kaitlin's advice to her younger self is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care and enjoying the creative process. In an industry that often equates success with output and constant learning, she now values a quieter, more sustainable version of success: the simple joy of waking up every day and drawing.
"Real success feels simple: I get to wake up every day and draw, a dream come true." - Kaitlin Brito
This perspective is a much-needed counterpoint to the grind culture often associated with creative industries. By prioritizing self-care and enjoying the process, Kaitlin ensures that her creative well remains full, and her work continues to evolve and resonate with audiences.
