Expert: Peter Gabany - 5/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have a BFA in illustration.  I would like to get into advertising.  Would a Graduate degree in advertising be advised?  If so, what kind of programs should I be looking into?

ANSWER: Additional education is always beneficial. If you want to practice illustration and work in advertising the only real gig (my opinion) is to freelance. Few if any agencies will maintain a salary for an illustrator. If it is school and the art department that you wish to work in then I would recommend design school. I have no idea where you are or your illustration style but give us some background and I can recommend further.

Check out AIGA, RGD Ontario, Graphic Arts Guild, ICOGRADA and http://advertising.utexas.edu/world/

I hope that this answers some of your questions and that the links inspire.

Pete



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Pete,
At the moment I mostly do paintings, portraits for people.  My concern is that I want to work on career goals but with a BFA in Illustration I don't know what options are best in a Graduate program.  I enjoy Mass Communications/ advertising. I am just a little vague as to what my Grad options are with a BFA in Illustration.

Answer
I'm sorry, I wouldn't know how to advise you regarding grad options. All that I can advise is to open your sights to include design firms as well as PR, sales promotion and direct marketing firms.

A natural for you is to look into editorial opportunities (magazines) or go back to school for graphic design. If you prefer learning more about integrated communications that too would be beneficial. I know that they have one of the best Int. Comm. schools at Northwestern U.

Let me know if this helps.

Pete