Creative careers

Karen Neville

When it comes to careers, you can think outside the box, especially if you’re more creative in your outlook. Illustrator Jenny Tang tells us more

Creative souls can often feel their spirit is a little crushed by school… and that was certainly the case for Jenny Tang.

“I had a tough time at school,” says Jenny, AKA Definitely Jenny, a full-time illustrator who has created murals across the South East, as well as artwork for magazines, events and games. Jenny earned her foundation, followed by a degree in Graphic Arts at Bucks New Uni. “My work is tied together with bright, bold colours, quirky characters and trying to capture a sense of fun within my illustrations,” adds Jenny.

Jenny would advise any creative young people, and their parents, to follow their heart and work will follow, because there is only one of you! “When I was deciding on my A-Levels,” she says, “there was a lot of pressure from my dad who wanted the classic prestigious job career path – think doctor or lawyer. He meant well as what he really wanted was a high-paying and stable job so I was financially comfortable.

“My mum, who didn’t give unsolicited advice ever, took me to one side and told me: ‘follow what you want to do – you are the one living this life so if there’s something you want to explore, do it!'” In that moment it was like clarity had struck me to the core. I hope by sharing this advice, it helps someone else!”

In 2020, creative industries in the UK employed about 2.1 million people, contributing more than £100 billion to the economy. Creative professionals often work in industries such as:

Visual Arts & Design (graphic design, illustration, animation, architecture)
Performing Arts (acting, music, dance, theatre production)
Writing & Literature (journalism, fiction writing, copywriting, screenwriting)
Film & Media (directing, cinematography, editing, production)
Fashion & Textiles (fashion design, costume design, textile arts)
Technology & Digital Innovation (UX/UI design, game development, web design)
Music & Sound (being a musician, sound engineer, music producer, or working in music composition for film and video games)
Game Design & Development (technology and gaming combines creativity with coding, design, and storytelling)
Fine Arts (painting, sculpting, creating mixed media, traditional and modern art independently and for galleries or institutions).
Interior Design (creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces).
Advertising & Marketing (branding, campaigns, and digital marketing, creating compelling narratives & visuals for companies).

Creative careers can be competitive. Rejection is part of the process, so persistence is key. Sharing your work and getting feedback can help you grow, so set up a portfolio.

When it comes to careers, you can think outside the box, especially if you’re more creative in your outlook. Illustrator Jenny Tang tells us more

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