My Terrible First Art "Job" | Art + Storytime

When you're desperate to make it as an artist, sometimes you have to put up with a lot of nonsense.
Read my webcomic! ★ castoff-comic.com/
(Tapas mirror: tapas.io/series/Castoff/info )
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Special thanks to @MegaRonTV and @wild-jinx for their voices in this video! Check out the D&D show we're all in together! • What's Left of Us Seas...
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[@WallflowerDoodles]

Can we talk abt how predatory it was to be like “hey, we don’t like your resume, but you COULD work for us for FREE…”

[@AceLeGoose]

So true! If you don’t like it, move along! (Also hehe, 600th like (:< )

[@Shadow_buddy._.]

@@AceLeGooseI’m 660!

[@cheescak]

@@Shadow_buddy._. im not

[@pleurnicheuse1443]

Exactly- why even say that if you want someone to work for you for free- it's really just sorting out young people who didn't learn how to value themselves yet.

[@Basil_Flowerz]

@@Shadow_buddy._. Im 2k!

[@zoe_bee]

I think stories like these are so SO important. ANYONE can get pulled into red-flag-filled situations; no one is immune to sketchy jobs. I'm so glad you were able to get out and make the stuff you want to make 🥰

[@prosperosmoon]

ahh, " *sketch* y" Hahaaa

[@another-niko-pfp-holder]

why am i seeing you everywhere now

[@bettyunicorn6132]

Didn’t you get in the same situation to Zoe?

[@cosmicreef5858]

Everyone who pays attention is

[@The-one-and-only-Fruitcake]

If you hadn’t specified she was blonde, I would’ve assumed she’s Colleen Ballinger because of the “bad music video” thing

[@likesaly]

Exactly what I thought

[@juice3287]

cute venti pfp

[@Broeckchen]

My brain went "Gabby Hannah?"

[@fakeemail6815]

and the specific mention of "haters" too

[@rebeccameyer6612]

The numbers wouldn't have matched up for that time period. But I see where you are coming from

[@Ashley-xu1lk]

Parents need to realize that it's so much harder getting a job now than it was in their generation. I graduated recently with a degree in engineering and it took 6 months before I got a break. Job hunting is a hard process to go through as it is, even harder when you see your friends that graduated with you get job offers before you.

[@Darknight0681]

They also need to realize getting a job in this field is nothing like what it is for MOST other professions. Sure they have their difficulties too, but out here you could have qualifications out the wazoo and still be called inexperienced or some other bullshit. Not because you are, but because said person/manager doesn’t want to pay you what you’re actually worth to them. Granted this is trickling into other professions these days too, but the art careers have had it bad like this as long as I can recall. It’s why most of us are self employed these days, and even then it’s no magic bullet away from that.

[@Ashriel08]

uh well, i never had a job...

[@ItzPeachMilkyChannel]

me either lol bc im in school still

[@averagefnaffanfr]

same

[@LittleTimmy2016]

I'm having a job interview today

[@partypoison_]

me neither, but one day we'll get jobs. Hopefully ones we like

[@I_eat_bugs8272]

Same

[@StrawberryNova]

Oh boy, when you talked about the "this is what my life is going to be" thought, that REALLY hit home. I've been in that boat for a long time and I have to admit that I fully fell victim to it. It's only been recently that I've started to move past it and it's still a battle. Your videos are so good and relatable and I hope your career continues to take off wonderfully 💙

[@fuzzytadpole]

I wish you the best of luck

[@mx.menacing]

I'm in the same boat rn :')

[@StrawberryNova]

@@mx.menacing I'm sure you'll get through it. It can be hard, and discouraging, but I bet you can 💙

[@austinmiller2170]

I was in that position for a couple years out of community college. I have 3 pieces of advice. Try to ignore places with a high turn-over rate like Amazon or Dell. Those places will chew you up and spit you out with no career advancement. Find a job you can hold down. I worked at Walmart for about a year and a half and having a long employment record actually helped me get a job down the line. Third, attend events that help with job placement. I gave my credentials to a group at a job fair and was contacted for a job something like a year later after I 'd forgotten about it. Sorry for the wall of text, I hope this helps.

[@StrawberryNova]

@@austinmiller2170 I think it's all very useful advice! I'm still working on securing a job in my preferred field (currently leagues away), but I've been able to hold a job for quite awhile now and it definitely makes you appeal more to places

[@KyleeNim]

LMAO MY ART JUMPSCARE AT 12:10 I am so sorry you had to deal with that, and thanks for crediting my art even if the memory you have of your experience was bad and my art happened to be the example shown

[@Cally_Frostbun]

CONGRATS

[@undefinederror40404]

Hahaha niiice I really like your versions! I love how you used different body types, facial structures etc. They look like they have personalities :D Also really like how you colored them, I'm in the process of working on that and hope to get to your level some day ^^)

[@yunarukami6161]

Oh snap I remember reading your pokemon nuzlocke myths of unova when I was a kid. I was only 10 years old when I found your work on DeviantArt on my laptop and I always enjoyed reading it.

[@felixisfruity]

that’s your art? epic!!!

[@wercatpng]

As an artis whose never was in an art school but still wants to be a storyteller, i really needed this video. I want to create my own studio and wanted to go to an actual one to see how it works, but yeah, i think it was needed more like validation. I try to make something by myself now, while studying in college for the different profession, but in the end i gonna be who i really want to be. Thank you for video, for the backstory part too, i believe in you.

[@Miranoo]

Please do that. I'm sure you're full of potential and skills which will lead you into making fabulous storytelling !!! If you ever need anyone motivated to tell stories, I'd love to hear more about your projects :D

[@wercatpng]

@@Miranoo thank youu😭😭

[@TheRealStarspeed]

I graduated in 2020 (BIG OOF), and I relate heavily to your story about post-graduation funk. I've got my own sci-fi webcomic up and running, but I'm not able to monetize it yet, nor do I have a large audience... But I still find stories like this inspiring from the standpoint of "the conventional path isn't always the right path" and I'm really happy you post these videos from time to time. You honestly really inspire me and I always find your storytime videos fun and soooo relatable!

[@vanillaplanifoliae]

what's your webcomic? i'd love to check it out :0

[@Flamingaaa]

hey man, whats the webcomic called?

[@masquerading18]

dont be shy drop the web comic :3

[@dreamt0wn739]

Drop the comic buckaroo

[@kitturstars]

Whats your comic? If its on webtoon I could swing by and check it out :0

[@SageAsuka]

Hearing about the parent fights and stress in the beginning made my blood pressure sky rocket. Glad you managed to work things out with an art job. I'm still kind of in limbo with mine, but I flat out had to move across the country away from my parents because being told that I was a liar who stole their money for college and wasted their 20+ years of parenting is something I still gotta recover from.

[@Casualdevy]

Proud of you for taking that first step and going away from your toxic environment... You will blossom away from them

[@stripedpolkadots8692]

Your parents sound like COMPLETE assholes, I’m sorry you had to go through that, you absolutely did not deserve it and I’m sure you tried your best.

[@succojones]

I believe in you buddy!

[@KevinMcLean]

I really like this story's unique nature. Most animators and artist I follow have a story of struggle but always end up getting "the" experience with a studio or big opportunity at some point. But since your story never got that "big" opportunity it resonates differently. It really cements the fact that you can be successful without them.

[@jqyena]

hearing this made me feel like : *”id never make a mistake like that”* But tbh if i actually was in that position, it would be so pressurising i wouldn’t even realise that what I was doing was a big mistake

[@blizzard_the_seal9863]

same lol, being real i ABSOLUTELY would make a mistake like this

[@mincrafter1572]

As an up and comin artist planning to go to art school, I never even realised how hard it’d be to get into a studio. I saw this tiktok/short where someone applied to Disney while still in art school, not thinking they’d accept but they actually did, I think that’s why I thought it wasn’t hard to get into studios 😭

[@matticelery52]

it’s pretty unfair that your parents would hound you for not finding work when whether or not you did was out of your control. especially when later on you mentioned your mom swaying you toward animation instead of what you initially wanted but regardless, i’m proud and happy for you being able to create your own work in the end. all those jobs missed out

[@Nireni]

I fell into many predatory $200 dollar "job" because the people around me told me over and over that its "a starting point that everyone goes through." Never, accept such low pay for your work. It doesn't matter if you have a degree or not. Your time and your work are important and these people don't see that value. It's horrible but I feel worse for putting down other jobs for those $200 ones.

[@LiMe251]

I really underestimate art value, $15 per page sounded incredible to me, I should remember this when I start learning art.

[@michaellavallie3896]

it's stories like this that make me sooooooo upset at people that generally believe art is "easy" or isn't important enough to pay your artist fairly. The nerve to think $200 dollars is enough for a 16-page fully done comic is outstanding. Glad Star was smart enough to know her worth. 👍

[@catsupy]

I am so SO glad you didn't get a studio job. Just look at the state of the media rn. I was accepted into an animator program at SCAD, but I rescinded the offer because my parents didn't think I should take out any loans (THANK YOU PARENTS) At the time I was super mad, but I absolutely know I'd be exactly where I'm at right now (except in like 70k worth of debt). I ended up going to my local community college, which thankfully had TONS of art programs. In my graphic design class, this guy asked me if I could draw a comic for him (paid). I had no clue what the rates were, and much like you in your story, just REALLY wanted to get in to the scene and add something relevant to my resume. in the end, we agreed to $10 a PAGE. I was reluctant, but all my friends and fam were like "Oh but don't comics (manga in particular) sell for like $10?" I agreed and took the offer (more due to peer pressure than otherwise). I did some sketches for him and he accepted them, but I....just couldn't bring myself to do the pages. I'm sorry, but the story sucked, the idea sucked, and I knew it'd hurt my reputation more than help it, so I quietly ghosted him and he stopped bringing it up.

[@gluttonousmaximus9048]

I'm certain one day something led by studio-bound folks will rain down on this indie art community that crushes EVERYONE EVERYWHERE IN THE WORLD.

[@Kendra_thelast]

3:33 the pain In her voice

[@princess_shymiera]

So far, I've had three jobs. All three were excuses to get out of the house for me lol. But seriously, my dream job is a comic artist, which I'm doing now. Granted it's still in the drafting phase, but it's a start. I won't be quitting my day (or night) job any time soon. Gotta make money somewhere

[@TheMandiStudio]

Man this hit home for me, I havne't gone to school for art but I've been drawing for years and left my full time job to improve and get a job in illustration. After 7 months of nothing I got a part time job to help pay for bills. I'm glad that you are doing so well and your art looks amazing!

[@charlieelioooo]

Good luck :)!!!!!

[@TheMandiStudio]

@@charlieelioooo Thank you!

[@sxmplyblossom8048]

i wish you best of luck!

[@TheMandiStudio]

@@sxmplyblossom8048 Thank you!

[@chillpenguin7679]

As someone who has been working in the VFX/Anim industry for over a decade, I highly recommend taking on internships if you want to get your foot in the door. Yes, unpaid internships are predatory and unethical (though more internships in the industry are becoming paid!), but internships are invaluable for not only getting you EXPERIENCE, but also for building RELATIONSHIPS with people who work in the industry (Yes, you need to NETWORK and TALK to other artists to get ahead). Those are the two most important things in your arsenal for working in this industry. And please, to all the college/art school students out there-- snag an internship WHILE YOU'RE IN SCHOOL! They can be good for college credit, and many internships ONLY hire people currently going to school! (or at least favor students). And make sure it's an internship that's related to what you want to do as a career. Tangentially-related internships are more likely to go NOWHERE, so try to be a little picky!

[@deezname6417]

Think a 34 year old can still get internships? When I see the internships, they list that they're looking for recent graduates. I've been chasing the dream for almost 20 years and still nothing so far

[@adadomu]

I don't really know what to say, they sometimes abuse the hell out of that kind of internships. Recent graduate of higher education at 3d animation and videogame design (here in Spain is called Grado Superior. It's not a university degree; rather like a 2-year course where they teach you the basics and all the main cool stuff to work on the industry, and in the second / final year you have to take an internship so as to prove you'd "fit" in the industry), and lemme tell you; internships while you are at school sucks a LOT. There aren't many animation-focused companies here where I live, and the only two "big" ones who were willing to take interns were... metaverse and nft-related. Yup, totally something that someone who's studying 3D animation would love to do. My school didn't even bother telling us to send our portfolios to actual CG companies because most of us "didn't made the cut" or "didn't have enough level to actually get there". What a great way to encourage students, but eh, that's an entirely different thing. Long story short (to not bore people out), I and another classmate got into one of those two because my teacher said "we were the best of our class", and we were put there without being really given a choice to choose another company we may have liked to stay in more. Since what we were studying was so broad in terms of skills, we could have even choosen a videogame indie company but no, they "kind of" forced us to stay there, since they had everything arranged already and it'd have made my studying center look bad. They exploited us a LOT (alongside the fact that they didn't really tell us we'd be working 8h beforehand, and having our easter holidays gone because the company wanted us to stay working since "there was too much work") Like, a good chunk of the actual CG and graphic work (not all of course) was done by only the interns who were staying there (5 out of 25 workers if I recall). And to top it off, the person who was tutorizing me was a classmate I had last year (one year up from me), and had another internship! A different one than the school internship, but still an internship. That meant that once she finished her school internship last year, they didn't offer her a job but rather another internship that lasted almost an entire year (10 months), being paid about 450€/month for +8h per day and even sometimes having to do extra hours that were almost in night-shift hours. And they also offered me that too, but I didn't want it at all because I knew all of this beforehand so, I politely declined. And guess in what they made me work in while I was there? Roblox. Not animating in Maya or Blender, or actually setting up a videogame or animation. Roblox. It's a pretty long story I don't intend on explaining, since I want the company to remain anonymus (they are after all a honest one, and deserve respect)... but eh. Sorry for all the ramble!

[@divalea]

Not everyone has the means to do unpaid work for a semester.

[@chillpenguin7679]

@@divalea I didn't either. Which is why I took on a part time paid job at a library to support myself while taking classes and doing the two unpaid internships that i did. First internship led nowhere. Second internship led me to making the connections i needed in order to land my first animation gig. It's all about how much bs you're willing to go through to achieve your goals :)

[@NostalgiaArtist]

It was nice to hear a nontraditional artist story for once. Like a non major studio artists story of struggle and finally finding work ❤ Thank you for sharing this old deredged up memory star. It gave a spark of hope to little old fellow independant artist me.

[@kasiako355]

That story was actually quite inspiring, you've gotten though a lot, but eventually you've made your dreams come true! Thank you for sharing it💖🤗

[@doctordubstepgaming6706]

they wanted anime girls to rep professional programs for serous topic's like medical if you worked in japan that might work but in Texas?????? TEXAS??????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?????????? WHAT?

[@jesternightlight]

i live in texas and it is literally the last place i'd ever expect to make anime girl gijinkas for your professional business

[@useyowords9745]

You’d be surprised.

[@PerryPictures]

I'm at 16:40 and it sounds like such a small but genuinely promising premise that I'm already angry knowing the other shoe is about to drop X_X us content creators who choose to collab need to make sure we're looking out for each other and not taking advantage. uggggh I'm gonna unpause and see what "Becky" did, but I kinda wish the story could end here on the hopes and dreams and wish fulfillment XD

[@zynpkrdg]

No one: Me: starts tearing up because this person i never knew before this video can tell stories now and i'll be reading cast off now because i also love stories.😭😭

[@mollydewsketches1380]

I graduated college 2 years ago and i finally got myself into a full time graphic design job. Keep your head up and work hard!! 😄

[@weirdreapr]

The beginning really resonated with me, as I myself am going through the same thing at this moment in time. I’ve applied to I don’t know how many jobs, and all I’ve ever felt was like a leech to my mother. It’s hard. I’m glad I’m not the only one who has experienced this.

[@MegaRonTV]

It was a pleasure reading for this video! I hope it has convinced Emery to spare Vernon. 🥺 After watching, it makes a lot of sense that you would have banished these jobs to the memory wastebasket. They sound awful!

[@maveroni4154]

I totally get the hopeless feeling. I’ve been applying to creative writing/writing in general jobs and haven’t heard back or have been denied. The most I’ve gotten is two commissions from random people on poorly moderated discord servers that I eventually left. The most I’ve been able to do is apply to writing contests, failing those as well despite me having an almost finished degree. I recently had to start a dishwasher job and it makes me so tired and my body hurt but it’s better than having no money. It makes me wonder about or regret the degree I’ve been pursuing

[@Hawk_Leigh]

Love how they told you, "hey you're not skilled enough to get paid to work for us...but by the way how about your first free work for us can be making the company's demo animation reel. You know, the thing we show to possible clients to prove to them how skilled we are." Yeeeeeah that don't check out the logic test, sir. That's honestly so crazy manipulative! I can't believe businesses get away with this stuff. So sorry you were dragged into that situation. Glad you were able to get out of there!

[@meez.cooler]

the end is nice and castoff is absolutely amazing and im so glad it did work out making comics, thank you for being so cool🥰

[@blackcat4898]

OH Dear Fu#$!??! The " This would be would be my life now " Hits ME HARD!?! As a student at an art college just looking for work and am worried about the future . This is just my exact worries , thank you for making this video . This really helped me understand who not to trust when looking for a job and What are the difficulties that might come from a job as well. Sorry my grammar is also not that good :].

[@kevinbyrne6142]

"you don't need to work at a big name studio to be good enough". (hugs) thank you!

[@Bluebloom1]

You’re really strong for keeping up with all this even when no real jobs were coming through, it’s a good thing you’re where you are right now 😊😊😊

[@cloud_poof3216]

Currently, my job is stacking bread at my local store- It’s technically my brother’s job, but he’s supposed to pay me when I help out, but, yeah, your stories are chaotic

[@cakepann]

Not sure why but the algorithm pushed this too me. I’ve always LOVED storytime podcast, storytime in general, but ART ACCOMPANYING IT? ah, this is perfect. I love your content. Please make more pleasee!

[@skunkgirl456]

God I feel this story so hard especially the is this gonna be my life forever part... im really trying to get over that hurdle and get my foot out the door but its definitely hard... but i still have somewhat hope

[@Kruhee]

If you're willing to work for free lots of people are willing to "hire" you... It's a trap! And it's so sad and predatory! Thank you for sharing!

[@Juany1985]

Kind of a sadder story, but I’m glad it all worked out 😊

[@shatteredprism]

I read a bit of Castoff, and I like it so far. I also don't understand why they had you be a photographer, when you showed no indication of being a photographer.

[@Freakz0id]

Honestly, considering I’m going to go college to aim for an animation/Art therapy degree, you making this video feels like a friend telling me about their experiences. It means a lot to me that you make story time videos like this. Thank you.

[@Dea_Skull]

i wanna be an artist but i dont really know what i wanna do with it.. i dont wanna work with a group. I mostly do art commissions but no one likes my art enough to commission me and im so low on money- i do digital art and im still in high school. Theres a lot i wanna do when i get older but now that i think of it i dont actually know what i wanna do with it. I wanna become a great chef, baker, artist, and singer and get a job as a animal caretaker but i also wanna be known for my art, i just have no idea on how i want to make that possible because being a commissioner only puts you so far but i also dont have the creativity to make my own artwork ideas nor would i have the heart to sell them- Decisions suck-

[@Dea_Skull]

(example of my art is my pfp)

[@Wallis_2001]

You have plenty of time to think about it! I know it seems like you need EVERYTHING to be figured out by the time you’re in university/college, but that’s not necessarily true. Higher education can be where you begin your long-time career, but it can also be an opportunity to _explore_ careers. Try out different jobs, talk to people who have experience, ask for help, and keep practicing. Planning ahead is always good, but there are some things you gotta experience firsthand and feel your way through :)

[@Letstalkaboutaugust]

Ngl i really want to see the music video

[@jesternightlight]

ME TOO

[@Oblivitana]

When I was like 9-10 my dad wanted me to draw the dog and cat of his friend, he was very forceful about it and I did cry. They didn’t come out as well as I would have wanted and it was for free

[@Doodle_Dragon]

Ooof! My dad also knows that I'm gonna go into art and animation and has talked about stuff I could do (dummy suggested nfts big yikes) but I can't imagine being so nasty as to make your 10 year old draw for free. Sorry dood :(

[@Oblivitana]

@@Doodle_Dragon 🙏✊

[@divalea]

That sucks that your dad did that to you. I hope he didn’t get anything out of it, or if he did it was awful.

[@Oblivitana]

@@divalea its alright, im sure he didn't

[@rosemary3029]

My dad knows I'm an artist but he's the opposite of your dad he's very kind and supportive and what i learned from his dad it turns out my dad was an artist himself

[@lairdofpawblins]

Once when I was in high school I got my art stolen by a substitute teacher. (I know it's not really a job, but this topic just reminded me of it, and every time I remember this story I just get so angry and feel like ranting about it. sorry. Feel free to delete if this isn't appropriate discussion for your video.) I was like 16 or 17, I think? And one day my Spanish teacher was unavailable so we had a substitute. The real teacher had left a lesson plan, but instead of using that or doing any kind of lesson, the sub said we were going to do a "fun" arts & crafts project, and she had us draw our school's mascot on the backs of dominoes that she said she was going to have glazed and turned into necklace pendants for us and bring back the next day. I was really proud of mine and wanted to wear it to the next school event, but she never did bring them back like she promised, and then a few weeks later one of my classmates said they saw the necklaces for sale in a local consignment shop. Honestly, if I had the knowledge and confidence back then that I do now as an adult, I would have gone to that shop, told the shop owner about it, and taken the necklaces back to my classmates. Just thinking about some old lady taking advantage of teen artists like that just gets me so upset every time. lol

[@Eaten_Fishnuggets]

I heard that finding jobs in art industries is super hard to do(before watching the video), especially when your resume and art portfolio don't match what many people want. At this point it sounds like you're better off creating your own platform and starting off as a freelancer. For me I decided to choose a different major for my degree, but I am finally starting my own comic(still in the progress of doing) that I've been putting off because of school and thinking it will be better after getting an art degree.

[@olofskivarp]

I'll be honest, I've already stumbled upon your comic on webttons more than a year ago but didn't end up reading it I just found you on KZbin through recommended and I find you entertaining so I'm gonna give your comic a try 😁

[@AussieFiggy]

Sounds like a trauma-response to me! As you process and discuss certain memories, others you had COMPLETELY blocked out are uncovered.

[@EeveeFromAlmia]

I love you drawing your multi-platoform comic while telling this story; you've done it! You're doing so much better! Yeah!!

[@carymeron]

My only job was living. Man, I repressed SO MANY MEMORIES-

[@a_very_angry_pickle]

I loved the little phonecall sections

[@Chocibunny]

The breaking down crying thinking this is what your life is going to be hit home so hard. I took a job at a bakery just to have one and it was hands down the most miserable job I've ever had mainly bcs of my mental space. I broke down crying after coming home and scrambled for a way out. I still don't have the job am dreaming of but am much better after quitting the bakery and trying something else.

[@The-one-and-only-Fruitcake]

I just got my very first art commission It doesn’t pay super well but it’s for a person who I know will pay and it’s not terribly difficult. I eventually want to get to the point where I could charge $100 or more but my art’s not there yet. I’m practicing though, and I think I really am getting better at art

[@Nadohunter]

I relate to this story so much... right down to having lived in Texas lol

[@electrofonickitty823]

Wow...gives me hope as an author too. Your stories actually give me some amazing ideas. You are awesome and I wish you could come to Daku Con in Colorado

[@cde3003]

Do this, but the opposite. Best client stories. That's something I'd like to see.

[@illBreakUrKneecaps8D]

Wow. Like, genuinely, WOW. This is my first time seeing you (my name’s also Starr!), and I’m so happy to hear your story. I’m someone who would love to make her own KZbin channel and tell her own stories, and hearing everything you said was such a blessing to me. I don’t want to make this long, but thank you. Because of you, I have even more motivation to fulfill my dream of becoming an artist and story teller on KZbin. Best of luck, enjoy your sub! ❤

[@nintenL0]

this is the first video i've seen of yours and it's honestly the one i NEEDED to see. i have wanted to be an artist for as long as i can remember (even tho i lost sight of that dream in high school and college) but i have never felt good enough. my education wasnt standard, i didnt have experience, and i always get rejected for creative jobs. i've been thinking about starting youtube or streaming my art alongside gaming, and i recently opened up an etsy store. i'm slowly doing what i can to make art a career for myself, but i still have major imposter syndrome. it's really nice to see the process that other self-made artists go through and gives me hope for my own journey. so thank you for everything. you're wonderful

[@MorglortheMangler]

First time commenting and I love the video. It’s sad that some artists don’t get paid a good amount of money for all the hard work they do. Thanks for sharing your story and I’m looking forward to seeing more great videos.

[@Epscillion]

There is something to be said about following your passion and gut to forge your own path. I had the same issue when I graduated art school and my parents were definitely upset and not understanding why it wasn't super easy to get an art job. I feel you there 100%. I've been a freelance illustrator since, and art tutor, and it's worked pretty well for me. So glad you've been supported by your following to do what you do!

[@dianaquill9969]

One of depression's highlights is that it makes you forget. A lot. It's awful, but I'm glad you're out of that awful situation!

[@Amanda-rh1ei]

The start of the story, your whole post graduation experience really hit home hard. I had the exact same thing happen, except I never was able to get a break into any art job, still doing random jobs here and there that have nothing to do with my illustration/animation degree. It really sucks, and I often try not to think too hard bout my life cause it's really depressing. I'm glad ya managed to snag something eventually and that you've only gotten more successful, starting your own thing. Very cool to see, very happy for ya.

[@Crispyywheat]

Honestly this really put into perspective the struggles of finding an art job. I never went to college, I graduated back in 2021…and it honestly is hard to find something and even get noticed as an artist out there. I’m still searching for a place but hopefully with time it’ll come around.

[@elianatheartist]

I definitely appreciate your story, Im still a high school student but basically I want to be an idependent artist too. Hearing stories like these I think are very helpful so I can start shaping my future. Thank you for sharing, youre impacting people every day :D

[@CJYOLO66]

Oof, i feel you. Im kinda still there (job i dont like) im waiting till i can get out.

[@happyhippoeaters4261]

No, I don't think I have ever had a job so bad I have had to repress the memories of. At least not that I can remember.

[@TARINunit9]

I just wanna say, I discovered your comic for the first time last week and have binged the whole thing. It's amazing and I love Vector and Adriana and your art and I haven't been so eager to read something in years. A Plus and thank you

[@boombooomz]

Thank you for telling us all of this. Stories like this are really important to hear!

[@Love-qk1rg]

As a young artist, I was able to start off selling my art thankfully because of my supportive community and huge family who for some reason were happy with my earlier (terrible) art lolol. We all start somewhere and some of us are lucky to have a head start and audience who cheer us on ❤😭

[@SpaceshipX74]

Star, I'm actually trying to start a webcomic of my own, and I've just started diving into your channel yesterday and today. I looked at your website, watched more of your videos, veiwed some of your art, and oh boy am I glad I did. Your stories are amazing, I love how simple yet complex your art style is (as well as how the characters look omg) and you're actually a huge inspiration to me! I watched your video on what you should never do when making a webcomic, and it was very informative and helpful, not to mention entertaining! I just wanted to say thank you for being who you are and doing what you love despite those times when you were treated that way. Again, you are a huge inspiration. Gosh that was long as [REDACTED]-

[@illustrations.by.sheposco]

Thanks for making this, I'm at the begining of this journey, right in that post grad funk trying to know what to do next and its helpful to hear others experinces

[@MyMelo_uwu]

I started watching ur videos in January and I found them so interesting! Your stories and art have inspired me! :>

[@kazbob]

I feel so much kinship with you. I also took on part time retail after I graduated, and fell into post-graduation funk. And now I work as an illustrator for an educational company. I hope one day I will be able to push my career to the next level like you did~

[@Glenningway]

Your post college life reflects what many of us went through after graduation and the crushing reality that followed. One thing though that stands out is you never gave up. Sounds like you had lots of positive support to keep you going. This "career" is very tough to do if you have no support, not a lot of money, and many people (in my exp.) see art as a laughable career choice. Being a guy in Arizona telling people that you want to create cartoons/comics for a living without them laughing or raising an eyebrow, or worse, badmouth about you within earshot when you walk away. With jobs being bottlenecked in L.A. it adds insult to injury. Also learned many animation jobs are heavily outsourced as well or projects get done and you're out of work. Thank you for sharing your story! EDIT: Is that software clipstudio by chance?

[@Shuhkky]

Tbh it's amazing you stuck with art after all this, im worried that because my art isn't any good i may not be able to much, but I'm hoping to do something with it, but I've got programming experience that I can use in the meantime/as well as.

[@Regalis_Regium]

This was very inspriational and a nice way to start my morning. As a beginer artist, this video was very educational in way. Thank you!

[@Melonpatch1445]

i really hope it's sarah brand

[@sylaisee_bebop]

omg hearing that ur from texas made this video hit home for me bc i recently graduated and it feels like i can’t find any work in what i wanna do and i’ve been trying to bite the bullet in looking for at least a part time job but everything just makes me wanna SOB

[@megisawesome]

I had the exact same experience once I graduated university with a film degree, and I was getting so much pressure from my parents and my Grandma and I had exactly the same routine as you replying for jobs every day. Parents just not understanding.😩. So I do sympathise with you.

[@Star-Mania]

Oof, sorry to hear that star. I hope that any other smaller/ younger artists can take the lessons learned from this story and apply it to their own art careers!

[@loodgack]

I found this video by accident. having a totally different degree, and drawing as hobby, I still didn't get to find a job, which lasts longer than 2 months. and I'll be 30. and I'm not picky, since I cannot even afford food by the end of the month. I used to work for example at fast food restaurants with oil sensitivity, etc, so really, I'm not picky. so this desparate struggle can totally be someone's life, until they give up entirely on life itself and decide next to a drastic something. I do not know, what is wrong. I can do multiple things,and people usually don't even give me a chance. not even with commissions. (my yt is not related to my arts)

[@ShamcySab]

Already a red flag, when the studio pays you 0, and makes you work more than the actual employees of the company.

[@SourSalty]

24:47 that gives me hope to continue on the path of music production. Thx alot

[@thebigheartyradish]

the art in his one was really good!

[@simlemperor8400]

I came to find this video randomly and im so glad i found it. I just graduated my communication design major around 3 months ago and i been looking for job in illustration or character design field even before I graduated. No calls, no emails, there were several tests and one interview but all I got was either ghosting or rejection. So the beginning of the story of this video kinda give me a pat in the back because as sad as it sounds, it made me feel like I dont feel like I’m alone and a failure for keep being rejected and there is others who can relate with me. 🍀

[@phantomic4828]

Off topic but the way you draw hair is AWESOME, it's something I personally struggle with, so it's neat to see how other people draw it

[@SpaceShip-Orion]

I did come here because of that last video you mentioned at the start. You make good stuff. I should look up your comic some time and bookmark it.

[@joaquinchavez9766]

My friend sent me Castoff and I just got caught up last night it’s amazing and I’ll be here until we get a physical copy. Keep up the good work love ur art style too

[@kidklein6897]

You know what's freaky? When you're reading comments and they say the same word you are reading, it happened to me just know and its scary

[@StarGazerStudiosTV]

Your story was very inspirational. Love your content! ✨

[@AnubisFanVani]

Aaah I feel you, also had lots of pressure with getting a job and got some bad mental issues with that. I left this whole pressure behind, also because I can't have a normal job anymore due to my mental stuff but I want to be a freelancer anyway now. Duck the system, right. Let's see how it goes for me. I'm glad you found your way. Didn't read your comic yet but your art looks very krisp, like it. :D Also THANKS for telling how much a comic page can be worth, I would have had trouble pricing such stuff.

[@miraculusmelody1835]

I can't tell you how much your story resonated with me. I'm currently in that same position; not a lot of work is coming in, being in a state that is far away from my family and friends; I and my mom have tiffs here and there, and I'm constantly depressed all the time. I tend to deflect and blame myself for many of the outcomes in my life, even if they are out of my control. I've been in that same dark place believing that everything I've done thus far hasn't amounted to anything. so hearing your story has lifted my spirits a bit I still very much view art as a possible career but as of now, I'm content,, as doing it as a hobby and who knows maybe I'll give KZbin another shot. But in the meantime, I'll be making my own webcomics from my regular 9 to 5 in my free time. But your story shows me that I'm not alone and every experience is a new lesson learned.

[@sillyestel]

Thank you for sharing this story with us it was very helpful! 😊

[@michelleoliveira121]

This is so relatable that it hurts hahahaha I'm glad you found your path!! I spent 7 years in studios and now I want to find my own way of doing things. It's hard but I hope I can make it

[@RedRoninGM]

13:50 YOOO!!! I was thinking about the word “Becky” due to your thumbnail, because the blonde girl looked like one, and when you said Becky, I was like, “DEAR GOD! 😂😂😂😂 Great minds think alike!”

[@laytonpro8655]

I just graduated from an animation degree and I feel a lot like how you did, I just started working at a well known bakery and I remember calling my mum excited how I had finally gotten a job and suddenly out of nowhere I felt defeated and depressed, as if I had given up on my dream job. My mindset is a bit better now but I think the pressure just finally got too much

[@gokuxsephiroth4505]

I'm a freelance writer and I... uh, have my own stories like this. I only started 3 years ago but good god, I feel like I was so naïve back then. I never worked for FREE per se, but safe to say when I started, my wage wasn't nearly enough to live on and it was supplemented by validation. It feels almost like a rite of passage where a young artist falls into the trap of taking exposure and validation instead of a wage. Perhaps if the people in our lives were more supportive of creative careers and endeavours, we wouldn't fall victim to it so often but I digress... Thank you for your story. I'm sure you're inspiring many young artists by telling it, because when you're wading through the slush, trying to get a creative career going, it really feels like there's no light at the end of the tunnel sometimes.

[@jasminesamson8098]

Off-topic but I am in love with the use of the TAZ soundtrack you used!!

[@Shaked_Simcha]

I really like watching your videos and your comic is really good. It gave me inspiration to make my own comic

[@Darknight0681]

2004 BFA graduate here. I see things have NOT changed at all. The arts in general is still (maybe even more so now) a wildly disrespected field. There’s a lot of people out there who will want you to work for next to nothing or nothing at all, and smile in your face the whole time telling you it’ll be good for experience. The thing about parents, mine were a lot like this, particularly my Grandmother who I was living with at the time after college. Of course none of them went through what we did because the jobs they landed were MUCH easier to land. And I remember for me even when I finally got that seasonal job (yes seasonal) nobody really warmed up to that until at least a few years after the fact. Don’t expect to have a lot of support in the beginning unless the folks around you understand and get it from the jump. Keep the friends you do have that understand hella close, they might be ALL you‘ll have for a while. All I can tell you is hang in there and do what you can while filtering out the noise no matter where it comes from. It WILL be difficult on a lot of days. And while that opening might come, be aware that it might not happen for a while.