Here at the AOI we champion illustrators at all stages of their careers and working in a wide variety of mediums. The ways we provide support are quite extensive, but rather than just listing them we’d rather let our members tell you directly!

Lucy Truman is an illustrator and long standing member of the AOI. Her specialism lies within portrait, lifestyle and fashion, working for many clients including, Ralph Lauren, LVMH, Vanity Fair and American Girl. Her portfolio also diversifies into children’s books, working with publishers such as Penguin Random House and Candlewick Press.

We speak to Lucy about how she’s used her AOI membership and her experience of our services over the years.

How has being a member supported your illustration career?

I have been an AOI member since graduating (a really long time ago)!!!

I have always used my membership, from attending workshops, seminars and using their extensive online resources. This is without even mentioning the individual support you receive via the membership email and phone line. It is an unparalleled service, unlike anything else in the world. If you’re serious about a career in illustration then it’s a no brainer. That is how highly I value the AOI.

“It can be tricky having confidence when you are feeling unsure. Speaking with an AOI advisor has given me power to avoid pitfalls such as fee erosion techniques, or missing a vital clause in a contract.”
– Lucy Truman

Has the AOI helped you to successfully negotiate the terms and/or licensing for a specific project?

I have lost count how many times the AOI has helped me understand how to negotiate a good deal and better licensing terms. By giving me clarity and knowledge I have been able to see something I would have perhaps missed without the conversations regarding contracts. On an individual level this has helped me with specific jobs, and given me confidence to speak with clients in the knowledge I sound professional and “clued up”.

It can be tricky having confidence when you are feeling unsure. Speaking with an AOI advisor has given me power to avoid pitfalls such as fee erosion techniques, or missing a vital clause in a contract. I have also learned a lot through attending their Contracts/Rights events in person, and online “Negotiating with Confidence” webinars. I use the knowledge on a daily basis, more or less.

Would you recommend us to other illustrators?

I would absolutely recommend the AOI to other illustrators. In fact I would go so far as saying it is a MUST! I wouldn’t have had 20+ year full time career as an illustrator without their help and resources along the way.

Many thanks to Lucy Truman for taking the time to answer our questions and for her kind words.

Make sure to see more of her fantastic work on her website and instagram.

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