Writing cover letters can be tiring especially if you are an artist applying to several jobs, whether full time, or on exclusive commission or even freelance, but here’s a tip for artists and illustrators alike – consider creating a good artist cover letter as part of the job interview process.
Employers look toward working with dependable individuals, and often being an artist, you are usually perceived as flakey or just disorganized, but of course, that’s a stereotype and not necessarily true. As an artist who has something to prove, this is your chance to communicate to a potential employer that though you are amazingly creative and reliable, you can be entrusted to meet deadlines when needed. So with writing your cover letter, bank on your strengths and your build rapport with the client. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your job descriptions and work history, and really write is as if you are talking to them.
Resumes are essential in job-hunting, but all its details would easily bog down a recruiter and limit their reading window down to a few minutes, that’s why cover letters are very effective, they can give a recruiter a quick assessment whether you are worth interviewing and meeting in real life.
As an artist, don’t be afraid to show your passion for your craft, let them know how great you are through your cover letter. Go and get that interview!
Artist Cover Letter Sample
(Today’s Date)
Dear Art Director,
I am applying to your call for artists during this year’s open submission period for Grantham Ballard Press. I am Gregory Poulson, a visual creative and a painter, and a graduate of the South Calgary Institue for Art and Design with a BA (Hons) Drawing degree.
My main artistic style is in Ligne Claire as seen in my portfolio, but I can also do crosshatching and pointilism styles. I also work with traditional mediums and work to scale using oil, charcoal and acrylic given a proper time schedule. I am also a skilled digital illustrator with years of professional experience producing editorial art and illustrations for print and digital. For 2019, I have had a good show, as my work has appeared as accompanying illustrations in articles published by the Atlantic, Midwest Journal, BuzzFeed and New York Press Editorials.
As an artist, I believe that I can make a distinct impact in your design portfolio as a resident illustrator. I am available for monthly thematic commissions and even large-scale public commissioned work such as murals and dioramas. My art portfolio and skills are very diverse than most. With graphics and collaterals, I am quite versatile and well-attuned to the nuances of color and typography. Please see my Behance profile here(link).
If my work interests you, we can discuss the possibility of full–time or part-time employment. I can also work as an artistic consultant for creative briefs, storyboards and other mixed-media visuals.
Please see my attached CV as well. I am just a quick call away at 555-4040 and my email is artistforhire@gmail.com
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Gregory Poulson