Patrick Donnelly describes himself as an unemployed artist working in a coffee shop who turned into a successful self-employed artist/designer/ flair bartender. He found many opportunities in the suburbs for his ability to visually solve problems, turning his passion into a small living, and some fun adventures along the way. He is currently freelancing for five clients, and also touring the DC region with an exhibition flair bartending team called “the pour boys.” He recently accepted an offer to work for George Washington University in their graphics department. Visit www.patrickdonnelly.com for more details.

In your opinion, what is the best way to break into the art world when coming right out of school?

The most important thing is exposure. Show your work in as many places as you can. I tried to get into a few gallery shows but unless you have unusual hook ups, usually you don't have enough work (a curator usually wants about 30 pieces of 
CONSISTANT work) or you're just not famous enough for them, or too young. But coffee shops are a great venue for showing your work. Some smaller local galleries do open submissions shows once a year where you can hang for 30 bucks or so. People start looking at your work and talking about it, and want to know more about you. I had a band that liked one of my prints, and commissioned me to make an 
illustration for their album cover. Think of it as free advertising. 

What is the best way to find job opportunities and meet other young artists?

Go out drinking . . .I mean networking. Don't be afraid to impose or ask for 
favors. Everyone else is doing it. Your neighbor or boss's girlfriend may 
know people that could have work for you. Join your local art directors 
club or AIGA. Other groups are a great networking opportunities. I have two part time jobs. I work at a coffee shop that has bands play several nights a week. People find out you're an artist, and you would be surprised how many people say "oh, I need a logo"  or " hey, were looking for someone to make us a poster". And once you 
have done a few small jobs, people start recommending you to other people. .

How have you promoted your work since graduating?

I suggest having your work on the web. Your webpage doesn't have to be 
amazing, but its easy for people to browse your online portfolio. But just note, if 
you can show your work in person, its always better to do that. 

Do you have any advice on how to market yourself and your work right out of college?

Know how much your time and your artwork is worth. I was selling prints at school for 30 bucks to fellow students. Now I don't consider selling a  print for under $150. Look around others peoples work, and size them up. You would be surprised what people will pay you for your work and your time.  When I started freelancing, I charged people $20 an hour. Which I felt  rather uncomfortable asking, but I found out that was actually rather low.  Compare that with lawyers, $200 some an hour, tattoo artists $100 an hour. My point is you are valuable, and you have skills that only a small percent of the public has. There is also a lot of money in powerpoint presentations. You would be surprised how many  wealthy business people do not know how to use powerpoint. Also, be wary of SPEC work. A lot of cheap companies sponsor contests or open calling for work. Many times they wont pay you, they will just steal your ideas. Your time is worth money. 

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?

Invest in yourself. It takes money to make money. Invest in a portfolio, equipment, 
and a nice suit. Until recently I had a large 18 by 24 flip book  portfolio. Was ok, but didn't looked "polished". Which is what a lot of people wanted to see. I invested in a nice 16 by 20 (slightly smaller) portfolio hard case. It gives off that impression of... "this kid isn't messing around,  he's serious about his work". Also, I was always a PC person, but I buckled down and bought a powerbook. Its amazing how just having one, people think I am a better designer, illustrator, whatever.... Your image is important. Also, you can modify files right in front of a client, or change things in preflight before you go to the printer... etc... 

Carry around a sketchbook, people love to look through them, and it gives them a good idea of what you can do. Bring your sketchbook to  interviews. Employers like to see how you came up with an idea from start to finish. I also personally feel its gives them a bit more of a personal connection to you.