0021: Processing Feedback

A Habit of processing Information

Sep 05, 2024

An Illustrator’s Job

I once said that an illustrators job is to turn emails into pictures.

For the most part that is the job isn’t it. I have about 80 pages of feedback worth of feedback in my inbox on the two books that I’m finalising. These are the final bits so it’s actually one of the most fun parts of the job. But still that’s a lot of feedback to go through. here’s how I do it.

First, I get out of the studio.

I have my phone to read the emails and download the files, and a notebook to rewrite the feedback in my words.

Example:

Cockroach Spread (25m)
Colourful background
Fun Eyes
Draw one Cockroach under rock
Universal: more texture in black

Doing this exercise is very different from just reading the feedback, first of all it’s a commitment to what I’m going to do. But in a sense I’ve already started working on it subconsciously .

And I’ve estimated how long it will take to get done.

The estimation is priceless, when I have a few hours of studio time, I can assign my self work based on the time estimations. It also lets me know If I can get everything done in the available time

A Habit of Processing Information

This kind of processing doesn’t just need to be done when you get client feedback.

You can process a class you’ve just taken.
A critique from your critique group.
A video you’ve just watched.
A day you’ve just lived

Some News:

A gift for Free Subscribers, coming soon:

I’m writing a manual for taking time for your creative practice, I have an outline and I’ve fleshed out a couple of sections. I’m writing it as a gift to all my free subscribers hang on for that, my tentative goal is to get this done in September.

And for Paid Subscribers

I’ve also written 30 invitations (prompts) to build your creative practice.

For thirty days I will send you an email that unpacks an idea, tool or technique around building a creative practice, and invite you into a ten minute challenge. I’m sending these out in October daily to complement all the drawing challenges that spring up at this time of year.

Creating space for our creativity is a challenge in itself.

I’m looking to reframe that challenge as invitations.

10 minutes a day can transform your creative life.

Here's why:

Accessibility: We all have 10 minutes somewhere in our day.
Consistency: Small daily actions nurture powerful creative habits.
Low Pressure: It's short enough to sidestep our inner critic.
Idea Incubator: Quick sketches often spark unexpected inspiration.
Skill Nurturer: Regular practice, even brief, helps our craft flourish.

This practice meets you where you are. Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or returning to art after a long break, these 10 minutes are yours to explore and grow.

“If you are looking for daily prompts to keep drawing, you couldn’t ask for a kinder, funner host!“
Wendy MacNaughton, DrawTogether with WendyMac

“Adam gives thoughtful advice and support for every stage of your illustration journey!”
Beth Spencer, Introvert Drawing Club

“Adam is unrelenting in his quest for creative success! His tips and techniques for consistent growth are top notch. ”
Jacob Souva, Drawing a Blank

By signing up, you will also be able to enjoy BONUS CONTENT including,

🗺️ My roadmap from illustration outsider to securing 10 five-figure picture book projects in 18 months.
🧠 Micro-Lessons on lots of useful topics to accelerate your illustration career.
🎥 20+ Hours of Video Workshops and Discussion.
💬 Vibrant Creative Community Connect with like-minded artists in our exclusive chat. Share experiences, seek advice, and grow together.

🏴‍☠️ Press the shiny, green button to unlock that secret treasure