CTN experiences: Cheryl Johnson.

Hello!

After CTN, we are trying to compile all the experiences we can, form the ones of us that went there with a booth, to show our portfolio or just for fun! So we share experiences and tips that may be useful for us in the future!

Here is Cheryl Johnson, she is 8th term and ready to graduate ! She had a booth shared with Chloe Bristol, and for both of them was their first time!

Here is her experience! I hope you guys enjoy!

1. Talk about your experience at CTN How was getting ready, what did you expect, if it was accomplished, what did surprise you, what would do different or better next time.

Overall, having a table at CTN was an amazing experience. I went last year as an attendee, but for me, having a table was so much better. It's not for everyone, though. To really do well with it, you have to be personable, approachable, all-smiles. You also need to know exactly what you want to say about yourself as an artist.

Getting ready was a lot of work. Some people prep up to a year in advance but Chloe and I decided to do this in August and began preparation in September. It was enough time for us because we didn't do anything too fancy with our table, but if you have big plans, best to start earlier. 

I already kinda knew what to expect because I had been to CTN before. What I didn't expect was how many artists were asking ME to look at their work! I never refused, though, and gave them my honest feedback.

Next time around, I'll be working on developing work that is even more unique to me. People who get the best response really have something special they want to tell the world. It's not all just nice, pretty, rendered pieces.

2. Will you do it again? Was it good profit?

Definitely! I plan on doing it again (hopefully with Chloe) next year. I didn't sell anything this time around, but I will next time. What sells best is sketchbooks and FAN ART. People really dig fan art. And pieces focused on characters and character interaction.

3. Did you learn anything new from doing this any tips for people that may wanna have their own booth on the future?

I learned so much. I learned that the animation world is filled with so many nice, genuine people. Really, it was pretty amazing how nice everyone was. I learned how important it is to have your own, unique voice as an artist if you want to stand out at all. For the most part, everyone there is exceptionally talented, so to stand out, really seek out what you like to do and do that! (Yes, I'm telling you to not listen to your Art Center teachers. Do what YOU want to do.)

Tips: Be nice. Smile a lot and ask lots of questions (be engaging). You never know who is looking through your stuff. It could be someone really important. Show you work to your idols - they will look at it! Come on - who doesn't like looking at art? If you don't get the response you want, don't be discouraged. Just take it as a sign that there is still work to be done and keep moving forward! It's not a "no", just a "not yet".

For those that are not familiar, check Cheryl's work, she is amazing!

Blog: cbjart.blogspot.com

Tumblr: cbjart.tumblr.com

Thanks Cheryl for sharing!