In a world where creativity is often commodified and deadlines loom large, Kaitlin Brito's approach to illustration stands out as a refreshing reminder of the importance of pure, unadulterated creation. Her story, a testament to the power of self-care and artistic integrity, offers a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of a creative career.
The Importance of 'Pure Making'
Kaitlin's journey began with a familiar creative block, a moment of emptiness that threatened to stifle her artistic voice. Her solution? Prioritize 'pure making,' a concept that might sound simple but carries profound implications. By carving out time for personal projects, even when deadlines are pressing, Kaitlin ensures that her creative wellspring remains full and her mind stays fresh.
"It's easy to forget that you also do this thing for fun." - Kaitlin Brito
This philosophy is a stark contrast to the relentless pursuit of productivity often encouraged in creative industries. Kaitlin's approach emphasizes the value of intrinsic motivation and the joy of creation for its own sake. By nurturing her own creative desires, she finds that her paid work benefits too, as if her mind has been 'rewired' to see drawing as an integral part of her identity, not just a job.
Unlocking Creative Freedom
One of Kaitlin's most intriguing tools is a black ink pen, a seemingly simple instrument that, for her, represents a key to unlocking a freer, more intuitive part of her brain. As an overthinker and perfectionist, she finds that the pen's irreversibility forces her to embrace a more spontaneous, less self-critical approach. This tool, a symbol of her creative freedom, highlights the importance of finding methods that allow artists to bypass their inner critics and tap into their raw, unfiltered creativity.
"I'm often overwhelmed by choice... If I give myself a pencil, I'll redraw and erase something a million times." - Kaitlin Brito
Finding Wonder in the Ordinary
Kaitlin's work is characterized by her ability to locate the magical and whimsical in everyday subjects. Whether it's a piece about beans for NPR or a sticker sheet featuring vintage trinkets, she transforms the mundane into something captivating. This talent is rooted in her vintage illustration collection, a source of inspiration that adds a unique charm and nostalgia to her work. By drawing from references found in her collection, she infuses her illustrations with a sense of history and a playful, old-school aesthetic.
Maintaining Analogue Charm in a Digital World
When working digitally, Kaitlin strives to retain the handmade quality of traditional art. Her rules for achieving this are simple yet effective: use a brush with no smoothing effect and avoid redrawing lines. By mimicking the imperfections and charm of analogue work, she ensures that her digital illustrations retain a sense of authenticity and character. This approach is a deliberate choice to avoid the overly rendered, sterile look often associated with digital art, adding a unique, human touch to her work.
Navigating Client Briefs
Kaitlin values clients who understand the importance of collaboration and respect her unique artistic voice. She has learned to identify briefs that might not offer the creative back-and-forth she seeks, often signaled by an initial openness that later reveals a specific, uncommunicated vision. Her strategy is to initiate early conversations about concepts and themes, ensuring that both parties are on the same page. Even with challenging briefs, such as abstract editorial jobs, she finds a way to rely on concept rather than look, a testament to her adaptability and problem-solving skills.
Nostalgia, AI, and the Future of Illustration
Kaitlin's nostalgic style, a reflection of her sentimental nature, has found a timely place in the illustration world. While some might worry about being associated with a trend, Kaitlin's work is deeply personal and speaks to a universal desire to reconnect with the wonder of childhood. As for AI image tools, she initially saw them as a threat but has since found reassurance in the continued demand for human-made art. She believes that brands and audiences alike value the authenticity and inspiration that come from bespoke, handmade creations. This perspective highlights the importance of human connection and creativity in an increasingly digital world.
A Different Path to Success
Kaitlin's journey offers a different perspective on success. Instead of equating it with output and skill acquisition, she now values the simple joy of waking up every day and drawing. Her advice to her younger self is a reminder to savor the process, a powerful message in a world that often prioritizes the destination over the journey.
In a fast-paced, deadline-driven industry, Kaitlin Brito's approach to illustration serves as a much-needed reminder of the importance of self-care, artistic integrity, and the pure joy of creation.
