Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Greg Houston. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Greg, appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
I have been a full-time, professional freelance illustrator for the last 35 years. However, I have had to diversify by creating my own projects to make ends meet. I’ve written and illustrated two graphic novels of my own and signed on to illustrate another for a client, written two books on illustration (Illustration That Works, and Understanding Caricature— both for The Monacelli Press/Phaidon Books), created and sold original artwork to buyers, and taught — initially at the college level and now at my own private, unaccredited illustration school. The market has changed over the years and I’ve found it more difficult to get steady work even as my work has, in my opinion, evolved and improved over time. In terms of my journey, I graduated from Pratt Institute– for my money, the best art school in the country– returned to my hometown, Baltimore, and started working. It’s been hard and, in some ways, frustrating but hugely rewarding as it’s the thing that I absolutely love to do above all else. There have been a ton of missteps and milestones– how could there not be over 35 years? Especially when I started out as an 18 year old kid? But you learn as you go. Mistakes are important. Embrace them. What could have sped up the process? The internet. It didn’t exist in any real way when I started in 1988. Now, the whole world can see every piece I do instantaneously– at no cost to me. That’s pretty amazing and it opens lots of doors.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was just a kid who liked to draw and whose parents and extended family supported me in that endeavor– and that was key. Furthermore, I had wonderful middle and high school art teachers and my decision to attend Pratt was supported by my folks. I got a brilliant education there. The rest is history. I’ve worked for lots of different kinds of clients over the years and, because I work in lots of styles, I never get bored and am able to continue to challenge myself. I work traditionally– ink, acrylic paint on paper and/or canvas board, primarily. I work fast. I’m very proud that I’ve never missed a deadline. And I can handle just about any type of subject matter. I think anyone who visits my website (www.greghoustonillustration) or my Instagram account (@ghoustonillustration)– on which I have over 600 pieces posted– will understand what I do. My images should speak for themselves.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect is living a creative life. Problem solving. Working with interesting people and organizations. Indulging in my love for illustrating, making images. I think any time you can monetize your passion you’re very, very lucky.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
I think NFTs are a scam.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.greghoustonillustration.com
- Instagram: @ghoustonillustration
- Facebook: Greg Houston Illustration
- Twitter: sorry Elon Musk– no twitter