I started a freelancing career

If you’re here, I assume you’re a client, a fellow freelance artist, or my boyfriend. Either way: welcome! My goal is to create a monthly update that covers everything from new services to showcasing what my clients are doing, or even sharing advice for other artists in the field. For whatever reason, I hope you can find some value, or at least something to read while you’re on the toilet. (Wishing you luck out there!)

In October 2024, I got a call from my supervisor telling me a financial crisis had hit and my hours would be cut drastically. After being there for over 6 years with little to no job insecurity, I had no backup plans. (Working in animation, this was my own fault.) But there was no time left for excuses! I needed to put my ass into gear and figure out how to earn some cash. 

However, let’s rewind a bit… 

Ninokito is a YouTuber and streamer focusing on gameplay and challenge commentary. Back when he was just starting out, I knew his potential and wanted to help out with his branding. This led to 2023, where I was drawing my first emotes, YouTube thumbnails, and even my infamous thumbnail assets. Yes, I technically did a lot of work for free back then, but I already had a stable job and found this fun! 

This may sound controversial in this economy, but…

HEAR ME OUT…

I get it. If you have no income and no time, working for exposure is not possible. But for me, this was building a library of work. When I later realized I needed to do commissions, I already had a portfolio tied to a YouTuber— Proof that I could draw this sort of art with a client in mind! (Trust me, clients need to know you can work with a client.) If you have no examples and no clients, it might be in your best interest to reach out to someone who you want to collaborate with. It does not need to be someone with a platform, just someone who you want to help. It has to be on your terms!

So what did I have at this point, October of 2024? A bunch of art examples for one YouTuber, cut down hours, the worry of what was left of my job would disappear, and… thank god, savings! 

I only saw one option.

I had to become a YouTube freelance artist. 

To avoid cramming in too much detail into one newsletter, I’ll split this story across multiple issues. If you want to find out what happens next… You‘ll need to be patient!

Back to present day!

 If you’re unaware, VGEN is the website I funnel all my commissions through. And as the negative sentiment around social media grows (AI, commodifying your life, scammers, bots, negativity) VGEN has been the savior. I will touch on this more in the future of my freelancing journey, but for now… Get on it!!!

Here’s my profile!

I have some new couple emotes on my store! These are pre-made sets that you can mix and match with your twitch-squish. Literally so me and my boyfriend. Or so you and your girlfriend. LITERALLY so you and your polycule. Literally!

A new asset set style! I wanted to create something a bit more affordable for those who want something simple and bold.

And also… this newsletter! While VGEN has saved the life of my freelancing journey, you never know what could happen. It could pull a Patreon, piss off their user base, and leave their artists floundering as all the paying clients boycott the site. While I doubt VGEN would do anything stupid (seriously… the best team!) I want to create something as a backup— build a little community without needing to shout into the algorithmic void of twitter.

This is my shoutout section where I want to highlight some of what my clients are up to (in regards to what I’ve made for them)

As a treat, tell me you read my newsletter in your next commission request and I’ll implement a 10% discount to your invoice! ❤ (Expires 22/8/2025)

I hope you have a wonderful month. Keep creating and inspiring! <3 

See ya.