105. Finding Success as a Freelance Illustrator: The Power of Creating Art That Heals with Alex Cabal

We sit down with Alex Cabal, a Los Angeles-based illustrator whose vibrant work celebrates cultural identity and diverse representation. From movie posters to YA book covers, Alex shares her journey of finding authentic artistic expression and building a sustainable creative career.

Episode Highlights

• Growing up in a strict household and using art as an escape

• Transition from movie poster concept artist to independent illustrator

• How embracing Filipino heritage transformed her artistic practice

• The journey of overcoming colorism and celebrating darker skin tones

• Building a successful illustration career without traditional networking

• Managing multiple income streams as a creative professional

Chapters

00:00 Finding Artistic Voice

03:06 Journey of Self-Discovery

12:06 Breaking Free from Constraints

20:40 Embracing Cultural Heritage

30:16 The Art of Portrait Illustration

37:27 Navigating Income Streams

Featured Work Mentioned

• "I Wanna Be Where You Are" by Christina Forest (First book cover)

• Entertainment Weekly spot illustrations

• Kara Beauty makeup palette illustrations

• Movie poster work: Minions, Secret Life of Pets, Sicario

Key Insights for Illustrators

1. Create work that's true to your voice, even if it doesn't fit current trends

2. Don't underestimate the power of online platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, Behance)

3. Consider multiple revenue streams: client work, art markets, online shops

4. Build strong foundational skills in traditional art techniques

5. Know when to ask for help and build a support system

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:

https://www.alex-cabal.com/

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Website: Martine Severin
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.