Freelance with Illustrator and Graphic Designer Careshia Steenkamp

10 questions for freelance illustrator and graphic designer Careshia Steenkamp on career, life and freelancing.

1. FCT: When did you start working as a freelancer?

I’ve only been freelancing full time since the 1^st of Feb 2017. But I’ve been taking on freelance jobs since I started working 3 years ago.

2. FCT: Sum up your skills in 7 words.

Passionate, spontaneous, storytelling illustrator and designer.

3. FCT: What do you enjoy most about freelancing?

The variety of work that I have everyday means that I’m never bored.

I also enjoy the freedom that I have to move around and manage my own time. It’s great.

4. FCT: Do you think freelancing is unconventional?

Yes it is, but the world is moving toward it more and more, especially in certain industries.

5. FCT: Describe the verb to freelance in the dictionary according to you.

 free·lance | ˈfrēˌlans/ verb: To work on your own terms, self-employed and not commited on a long-term basis.

6. FCT: Tell us about your work ethic.

Hard working, self driven and very curious to try new ways of creating art.

7. FCT: What do you believe makes you stand out from the crowd?

My style can be quirky and fun.

8. FCT: Describe the space where you work at?

I work everywhere; from my flat in Tamboerskloof that overlooks Table Mountain, to a nice coffee shop. I especially enjoy one of my new client’s home in Vredehoek- with amazing fibre internet!

 9. FCT: How have you benefited from Freelance Cape Town?

I landed a job at Quirk and stayed there for a year and a half, as well as freelance jobs here and there.

10. FCT: What are your words of wisdom/encouragement for those who are thinking of embarking on the freelance journey?

• It’s scary at first, but super exciting.
• You need to have a portfolio website with only your best work on it and you need to impress on the get-go.
• Always be willing to work on jobs that you usually wouldn’t, because you never know where it might lead to.
• Save money!!!
• Work hard.
• Try and do exciting personal projects to better yourself and to explore- this is the time to do it, because you can and you have the freedom to pursue it!

You can view Careshia’s profile by clicking here.