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Working in a Digital World

Kyle T. Webster talks about illustrating with digital tools

Scholastic Art: What is your job?

Kyle T. Webster: I create digital illustrations for books, newspapers, and magazines. My work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Time, and many other publications. I also recently wrote and illustrated my first children’s book, Please Say Please!   

SA: What is a digital illustration?

KTW: It is a work of art created in a digital environment, meaning on a computer or tablet. Instead of using a paintbrush, I use a stylus, which looks like a pen. When I drag the stylus across the computer screen, the illustration software translates that movement into the effect of a brush being moved across a canvas. Depending on the setting I chose, I can create digital oil paintings, digital charcoal or ink drawings, digital pastels, and more.

SA: What is your working process?

KTW: I create my roughest sketches using a Photoshop pencil tool that creates the effect of a regular 2B pencil on paper. I start by sketching the large shapes. So for a person, I’ll draw a big loopy shape. When I like the composition, I start adding more detail. But I won’t get into the very specific details, such as the crinkle of an eye, until I have a final, tight sketch.

Kyle T. Webster begins his digital illustrations with rough sketches.

SA: Is working with a stylus similar to working with natural-media tools?

KTW: Very similar. You rotate your hand and apply pressure with the stylus the same way you would with a natural-media tool, such as a brush or charcoal. I recommend training with natural-media tools and then experimenting with digital ones. I think if you’ve only ever worked digitally, you miss out on knowing how to manipulate media.

SA: What is challenging about your job?

KTW: There are thousands of illustrators out there. And with social media, self-promotion is cheaper and easier than ever. One of the main challenges for young illustrators is figuring out how to stand out. An engaging website and an Instagram page can show off your skills and set you apart.  

Career Profile: Digital Illustrator

Salary: Digital illustrators can earn between $35,000 and $75,000 per year depending on experience, project, and location.

Education: Most illustrators have a fine arts degree or a bachelor’s degree in illustration or new media illustration.

Getting Started:

  • Use natural media. Explore the diverse effects of using brushes or other tools.
  • Experiment with digital tools. Practice creating different effects using Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator.
  • Start connecting. Create a website and an Instagram account to promote your work.

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