Meet Irene Neyman | Illustrator & Graphic Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Irene Neyman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Irene, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
It all began when I was 5 (the earliest memory I have). I was always passionate about drawing, but never considered it as a career path. I drew for fun and found inspiration from other artists. My friends and family admired my drawings, but nobody ever suggested it as a potential job. Years later, one day, I realized I wanted to change everything, and find what I loved. My husband was incredibly supportive and encouraged me to pursue illustration, so I took a leap of faith and quit my job (which wasn’t an easy decision), found online courses, and dedicated myself to learning everything there is to know about illustration. Since I couldn’t attend an art university, I taught myself through self-study. I started from scratch, not knowing how to find clients, take orders, set prices, or organize my files. But, I trusted my instincts and navigated through the unknown, with the help of my good organizational skills and by learning from my mistakes. Before I knew it, I was making progress and improving my skills. The emotion I felt when I successfully finalize my first order was unforgettable and I realized what I really want to do — making illustration my lifelong career.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
All our experiences, style, and creative vision influence who we are at this specific point in life. I am proud that all my previous experiences have brought me to where I am today, where I can enjoy my job and do what I love. Of course, there are always challenges along the way, but it’s important to view these as opportunities for growth and learning.

The most important lesson I learned at the start of my career is that the main thing is the desire to change something. With this desire, actions begin and this process cannot be stopped. If you really want something, it will happen.

Whether through your style, subject matter, or creative process, you bring a unique and valuable perspective to the art world. It is important to be true to yourself and continue to be authentic, as this is what makes you valuable and unique. I hope to convey a similar message through my art – each time different, but still with the same core.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
During my journey, so many people and things have influenced me! I am truly grateful to my husband, who has been very supportive all these years. I was also impressed by artists Renaud Lavency, Clémence Thune, and Sarah Beth Morgan. They continue to inspire me. My latest discovery, Kezia Gabriella, has also captured my heart with her amazing work.

Additionally, I would like to mention books that have been instrumental in my career, especially for those new to this field: “Work for Money, Design for Soul” by David Airey, “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero, and “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon.

Website: www.ireneneyman.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irene_neyman/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneneyman/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neymanirene

Other: Dribbble: https://dribbble.com/Irene_Neyman Behance: https://www.behance.net/irene_neyman