The 2023 AOI Mentorship scheme is fully underway, and we are proud to introduce and champion this year’s mentees in a new series of interviews. A free program first introduced in 2020, this initiative champions a select group of 22 underrepresented illustrators, empowering them with dedicated support and guidance in the course of six months.
Driss Chaoui is an Illustrator based in Toulouse, France, paired with mentor and Illustrator Marcus Marritt. Continue reading to learn how his mentorship is going so far, their key takeaways from the experience, and much more.
What does being part of the AOI Mentorship mean to you?
I couldn’t be more delighted to be part of AOI’s mentorship scheme! Being an illustrator is an ever-learning journey, and being part of the mentorship has been an amazing opportunity to assess where my career is at so far. Comforting me in what I’ve been doing right while challenging me on what I could’ve done better. I’m learning a lot through industry insights, artistic advices and even by simply chatting with my mentor on non-related topics.
“Every time I talk to Driss I leave happy and more positive in life. He has a real passion for his craft as an illustrator, an energy to make things happen for himself. It is super exciting to see where his portfolio leads, with talent and an artists voice, I think Driss can do anything as an illustrator in the commercial world.”
– Marcus Marritt
How has the mentorship helped you tackle your goals? In what way(s) has your mentor supported you?
Marcus has been a wonderful mentor. Not only my quality of life as an artist significantly improved these last few months, but Marcus also expended my goals and changed how I view my career. It’s easier to make the right choice when you know which options are available to you in the first place.
We were able to chat about the good, the bad, and the beautiful of being a designer. Midway through the sessions, I already feel even more able to navigate the industry.
“Being an illustrator is an ever-learning journey, and being part of the mentorship has been an amazing opportunity to assess where my career is at so far.”
– Driss Chaoui
What has been a key moment or takeaway from the mentorship so far?
During our last session, Marcus mentioned working directly in a publishing house. While this was not something I even considered before, this is something I am now thinking about.
Would I choose to take this path or not, it feels empowering knowing the pieces of the life puzzle are slowly coming together!
Thank you Driss for taking the time to give us this interview. See more of their work on his website and instagram.
Keep checking our Mentorship section to meet more mentees!
Learn more about the AOI Mentorship and our 2023 Mentors.
The AOI Mentorship scheme is one of many initiatives offered by us. Find out more about membership today.