Creative Career Talks and Mentorship
I'm passionate about supporting emerging illustrators, designers, and creatives who are just starting out or looking for guidance in the industry. Whether you're navigating art school, building a portfolio, or figuring out how to find freelance work, I offer virtual mentorship and am available for career talks and Q&A sessions. My aim is to create a supportive, down-to-earth space where you can ask questions, gain insight, and feel more confident on your creative path, no matter where you're starting from. If you're a student, educator, or part of a creative organisation looking for a guest speaker or mentor, I’d love to hear from you.
These can be virtual via email or Zoom, or in person around the East Riding of Yorkshire area.
Click the contact button below or email me directly: jodiesmithillustrator@gmail.com
These can be virtual via email or Zoom, or in person around the East Riding of Yorkshire area.
Click the contact button below or email me directly: jodiesmithillustrator@gmail.com
Jodie Smith Illustrator Author Career Talk Leeds Arts University
Jodie Smith Illustrator Author Career Talk Leeds Arts University
Jodie Smith Illustrator Author Career Talk Leeds Arts University
Reviews:
“Jodie’s talk for our students and graduates was fantastic. She was very open and directly engaged with all who attended in an extremely helpful and supportive way; nothing was off limits! Jodie even put one of our graduates in touch with a publisher to help support their early-career development.” James Sharpe - Alumni Relations and Development Officer, Leeds Arts University, March 2025.
“Jodie’s talk for our students and graduates was fantastic. She was very open and directly engaged with all who attended in an extremely helpful and supportive way; nothing was off limits! Jodie even put one of our graduates in touch with a publisher to help support their early-career development.” James Sharpe - Alumni Relations and Development Officer, Leeds Arts University, March 2025.
"Jodie's talk about her journey from graduation to becoming a published author was honest and inspiring. She talks of both the highs and lows of life beyond a degree within the creative industries, and her deep belief in the power of art as a therapeutic tool. Her realistic approach is a refreshing change, yet she also shows how important it is to maintain one's own integrity in the world of work. Anyone thinking of setting foot in this area should go hear her." Sarie Kate, March 2025.
"I saw Jodie speak at LAU for the alumni series. As an illustrator interested in licensing and children’s books, I was very keen to see her presentation about her career. Jodie’s openness about the industry alongside her mental health battles really resonated with me. Her advice was honest and practical and I really appreciated her insight. I reached out to Jodie after the talk for advice about my children’s book (which also had themes of mental health throughout) and she took the time to write detailed feedback about potential next steps. Jodie is helping to build a community amongst illustrators to help and support each other, and I really appreciated being involved!" Rachael Powick, March 2025.
"Jodie’s feedback was invaluable and gave us a great deal of insight into the illustration industry. During the portfolio chat Jodie had lots of useful tips and nuggets of information about the industry as well as giving individualised feedback and answering any questions we had in clear and informative manner. Would highly recommend." Rachael and Phillippa of Corcutt Collective, May 2025
"Jodie’s feedback was invaluable and gave us a great deal of insight into the illustration industry. During the portfolio chat Jodie had lots of useful tips and nuggets of information about the industry as well as giving individualised feedback and answering any questions we had in clear and informative manner. Would highly recommend." Rachael and Phillippa of Corcutt Collective, May 2025