Check out all our current course offerings and portfolio review options below and take the next step toward achieving your creative goals! SEE BELOW >>
Empower your visual storytelling. Inspire your imagination. Become a professional illustrator. Make your dreams come true. Sign up today!
The Illustration Initiative® is here to help illustrators (like YOU!) discover how to create a marketable portfolio.
Hear from Emily about why she started the course and the Initiative:
So you want to improve advance your illustration career? It all begins with guidance.
If you identify with any of the below, The Illustration Initiative's coaching could be for you!
From Hobby/Passion to Full-Time: For those who love illustration as a hobby or side gig and want to make it a career, the Illustration Initiative’s coaching and courses can provide the guidance and structure needed to turn their passion into a profession.
Niche Transition: Illustrators looking to pivot from one genre or type of illustration to another (e.g., from picture books to concept art) can benefit from the Illustration Initiative’s expertise in navigating these changes and adapting their portfolios.
Breaking into Children's Book Illustration: New illustrators aiming to enter the world of children's books will find the Illustration Initiative's insights invaluable, especially in understanding the market and honing their portfolios for board books, picture books, chapter books, and more.
Evolving Style and Market: Experienced illustrators wanting to refine their style and move into higher-end, better-paid markets can leverage the Illustration Initiative’s portfolio reviews and coaching to elevate their work and attract more prestigious projects.
Learning and Fun: For those who just want to deepen their knowledge and enjoy the process, the Illustration Initiative’s courses offer a way to enhance skills and engage with the illustration community.
Testimonials
Just a few testimonials from the many!
Coaching Student
Dany Alvarez
Course & Coaching Student Rita Tan
Course Student
Alison Mutton
Coaching Student
Sheri Palmer
Coaching Student
JP Roberts
Coaching Student
Carol Rempto
See what more illustrators like you have to say!
I've worked with some really fabulous illustrators so far. After years agenting, this was the logical next step: help others by sharing my industry knowledge in relation to their work and goals. And the work had led to real results for illustrators across genres and age ranges - from book deals to agents!
Meet your teacher:
Hi there! I’m Emily, and I’m here to empower your illustration portfolio so you can achieve a fulfilling, full-time career in the industry.
With my background as an illustration agent, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of illustrators—from fresh talent to seasoned professionals—helping them secure dream projects and work with top publishers. I’ve collaborated with domestic and global publishers, including all of the Big 5, engaged with thousands of art directors and editors, attended international book fairs, and managed books that have graced the New York Times Best Seller list.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen countless talented illustrators fall short simply because their portfolios were missing key elements. That’s why I’ve launched this coaching and course initiative: to share my insider knowledge and transform your portfolio into a standout piece that gets noticed.
In my courses and coaching, you’ll learn:
- What it takes to stand out and why you might not be attracting the right agents or publishers.
- How to enhance your portfolio to capture the attention and projects you deserve.
- Strategies to identify and address weaknesses, highlight your strengths, and fill gaps—while staying true to your unique style.
Let’s bring your work to the forefront of the children’s book industry. Join my course or coaching today and take the next step toward achieving your illustration dreams!