Ginni’s Guide to Turning an Artistic Passion Into a Career

Make it stand out

3D animator and illustrator Ginni’s world is instantly recognisable: hyper colourful, super cute, and so plush and tactile you feel like you could reach through the screen and touch her designs. Her distinctive style has seen her collaborate with brands such as Slayfire Cosmetics and Pink Purée Cosmetics, and fellow artists like slime_og.

It was only eight months ago, however, that Ginni embarked on her current path, having previously worked as a 2D illustrator with a different style. But in listening to her instincts and staying faithful to herself and what she knew she wanted – and learning new skills in the process – she found what she now feels is a style that expresses exactly who she is, a comfort that shines through in her work. 

Here, she tells us about her journey into 3D animation, how she hit upon her true style and made career out of what she loves, and her advice for anyone who wants to do the same with their art. 

Follow what you really love because it will show in your work – even if it takes practice

Though Ginni’s professional path took her down the 2D illustration route at first, she knew her heart really lay in 3D animation. “Even though I felt a strong connection to 3D, I had developed a following and community for my 2D art so a part of me was always scared but also excited by the idea of switching style completely,” she says. 

Explaining why she made the leap, Ginni tells us: “Around 9 months back, after years of working as a 2D digital artist, I was going through a phase in my art journey where I wasn't really happy with my artworks. I'd spend hours trying to find the right reference to draw from, and I was feeling lost about my artistic style. I liked doing realistic portraits as much as I liked doing cartoony ones, and at the same time, I was also leaning towards 3D.”

“When I chose to give a 3D text tutorial a shot, just to test the waters, I found it incredibly enjoyable! I posted my work on social media, and the feedback was surprisingly positive right off the bat,” she says. “Fast forward 8 months, and now, after dedicating myself to practice every single day, I've transitioned into being a full-time 3D artist and animator. It's amazing how passion, consistency and following my excitement lead me to what it feels like my path.”

Don’t think you have to stick to one style forever

Before she made the jump into 3D, “the whole idea of having a specific style that defines me as an artist was stressing me out,” Ginni says. “You kinda think that you're supposed to settle on one thing forever, so people can instantly recognize your work in a sea of art. But then, it hit me one day. I realized that's not the kind of artist I want to be.”

Ultimately, she says, the thing that makes your work cohesive is you. “All I want is to make things that make me happy, with no restrictions, limits and no worries about what others might think, no matter what style or form it comes in,” she says. “When it comes down to it, everything I make is linked by the fact that it came from my mind and creativity and that’s enough.”

Use social media to your advantage

Once you’ve established what kind of thing you want to make, “sharing your work on social media is essential and will lead to amazing work opportunities,” Ginni says. “90% of my clients reached out to me after coming across my work through just TikTok and Instagram. Collaborations with other artists, creators, or brands are a great tool as well and it can introduce your work to new audiences.” Thinking outside the box in terms of how you present your work can also be really helpful, she adds: “In the last few months I realised how much people love to see the behind-the-scenes of the creative process. I suggest to share reels and TikToks of how you create something rather than just the artwork itself!”

Consider all the ways you can use your skills to diversify your earning 

Ginni uses Patreon to share her skills with artists who are just starting out – another way in which she uses her art to pay the bills. “It's really rewarding to assist artists who are just beginning their journey in the world of 3D. I've been in that same position before, so I know firsthand how valuable guidance and support can be. It brings me a lot of happiness to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and helping fellow artists navigate their way in the 3D realm!”

Elsewhere, she is always considering other ways that her art might develop. “I’ve been pondering the idea of using 3D printing to bring some of my creations to life,” she says. “It would be quite fascinating to see my 3D models integrated into domestic environments. Nevertheless, I'm equally drawn to the idea of crafting with my own hands. The realm of ceramics Is something that I would love to explore.”

Take the initiative – shy kids don’t get any sweets! 

“I've always focused on creating work that genuinely excites me and then sharing it with the world as extensively as possible,” Ginni says. She advises taking the bull by the horns and claiming the attention of the people you want to work with: “Whenever there's a brand I admire, I take the initiative to create fan art or free artwork dedicated to them,” she explains. “This approach not only showcases my genuine enthusiasm for the brand but also has the potential to attract similar brands. It's remarkable how this proactive approach have led to some incredible opportunities.”

She also recommends never being scared to intro yourself: “By reaching our directly, sharing your portfolio, and highlighting what you can offer, you create a pathway for potential collaborations.”

All artworks by Ginni