Kashmir-born freelance illustrator believes social media plays key role in gaining market for an artist

Ghazal Qadri, a Kashmir-born freelance illustrator, believes that use of technology and social media platforms plays a key role in creating hegemony on the market and influencing commoners through talent.

“To be honest, social media has played a very crucial role in the journey of an artist. From WhatsApp stickers which I created three years back to the current list of projects I am working on, I owe a lot to the traffic on my social media platform. I am always active on my social media, and that has helped me gain a lot of market in the Illustration freelance industry,” Ghazal said and added, “A lot of my clients have reached out to me through social media platform like Instagram etc,"  Ghazal Qadri said.

She said, “I always recommend creating a social media presence to begin with as it has certainly helped me in my career growth.”

Born and brought up in Kashmir, Ghazal later decided to move out for higher studies.

“Currently I am a freelance illustrator, represented by Sara Crowe of the New York-based literary agency, Pippin Properties Inc based out of Georgia, Atlanta,” she said.

Ghazal had done his masters in Illustration from the prestigious Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore USA in 2020.

“I started my first online store in the Spring season this year when I was at home. I sold tote bags, stickers, postcards, and other stationery items. It was a great experience for me. I received an overwhelming response that helped me in promoting my store on social media,” Ghazal continued.

She said for the past several years I have been quite active on Instagram where I share my doodles, comics. “It is overwhelming when I draw my stories in public”, he said.

Ghazal adviced aspiring illustrators to not be hesitant and they should be willing to connect with the art communities and keep showcasing their work with the art directors.

“You should be willing to take criticism and feedback, reach out to your shortcomings and address them with sincere mind. Create a good network as it is the key to success. Make right use of social media, constantly upskill and learn new and updated software. Most importantly do not neglect professionalism,” she added.