How to find illustration work without an agent

In the most recent installment of Creative Career Conundrums from If You Could Jobs, an illustrator who relocated from India to Dublin three years ago inquires about securing freelance work in the UK and Ireland without the help of an agent. Katie Cadwell, co-founder of the branding studio Lucky Dip and The NDA Podcast, suggests prioritizing platforms like Behance and Dribbble instead of Instagram, as art directors often scout talent there. She advises developing specific portfolio projects, reaching out to local publishers and agencies in Dublin, and becoming a member of the Association of Illustrators (AOI) for valuable resources. Cadwell highlights the importance of identifying a niche and fostering community through local gatherings.