Expert: Peter Gabany - 4/21/2008

Question
Hi there,i've nearly finished reading both Hey whipple and Olivy books really good books, wow I've got my A3 drawing pad, recently started sketching all my ads using magazine pic cut out in relation to pictures i need, im not a great drawer.But i'm still a student with a Year to go studying advertising, will it be possible to work freelance for agencies prob selling my idea to them whilst i'm continuing my studies.How will i know if i'm good enough to do so.How does freelance work.The reason i wanted to do this so my work can be seen,Will you be able to help with a summer internship letter, to work with copywriters.

Answer
Pearl,

This question(s) is a difficult to answer. I don't know you; I don't know where you live or what market  you wish to market in; I don't know your work;  don't know what you really do (art/copy/both)? Furthermore there is no resume or portfolio and I don't know what school you go to or how well you are doing in school.

The answer to your question is - certainly - but I can't be authoritative until I better understand what it is that you are trying to accomplish. If it's simply for ad people to see your work, I recommend that you do a direct mail piece.

If it is to get some experience - you are now ready. Who wouldn't be? You are as good as you are and will only get better by flexing your creative muscle. Being in this business goes well beyond being a good technician you have to acquire great management skills and be entrepreneurial as well.

The entrepreneurial will get you in the door and if you truly are creative - you will be in a lot sooner than others. But it is up to you. And how we carry on with each other will be a good test of your entrepreneurial capability.

While this is more direct that you may wish it to be it is real. I hope and trust that this will give you some direction for what needs to be done to go to the next level.

Pete