In this series, we interview Bright Artists who recently joined our agency to discover what the first part of their Bright journey was like. Read on to hear their journeys to being represented by Bright, and key advice they have for aspiring illustrators.

We spoke to Becca Hall, who, since graduating from Manchester School of Art in 2014, has been continuously working as a freelance illustrator, designing her own ever expanding range of giftware, and collaborating with a broad range of clients. Becca has always been inspired by nature and animals, and loves to work both by hand and digitally to bring her work to life.

How did you first hear about Bright?

I first discovered Bright about seven or eight years ago when I was researching agencies after uni. I was immediately drawn to them! I applied online but didn’t make the cut the first time. That only motivated me to improve my portfolio and style. I spent the next few years growing, learning, and refining my direction. I applied again in May 2021, and this time I was accepted! Looking back at my original portfolio, I completely understand why I wasn’t taken on - I didn’t really have a clear direction. It was the nudge I needed to figure out the path I wanted to take.

What was the joining process like?

When I first joined, I didn’t have a dedicated agent, so I was communicating with various people across different departments. I had no previous experience with an agent, so it was a bit confusing at times! But once I was assigned my first agent at Bright (Robyn Newton), everything fell into place. Now I work with Amy Fitzgerald and Nicky Lander for my UK work, and Robbin Brosterman for my US work - and I absolutely love it. I’ve built wonderful relationships with them all, and see them as friends as well as agents. I can drop them an email anytime and they keep everything running smoothly. I’ve also connected with other people at Bright across different departments - it now feels like one big family.

What’s one thing that happened in your first year with us that you didn’t expect?

I didn’t get as much work as I expected! I think I had this idea that once you get an agent, the work just rolls in. But of course, there are so many talented artists out there - you need to build up your portfolio with your agent and earn clients’ trust. Once I had a few jobs under my belt, things shifted. I started getting more repeat work and exciting new projects. For the last three years, I’ve had a jam-packed schedule! I’ve worked incredibly hard, but I wouldn’t be where I am without Bright - they’ve helped get my work in front of so many clients and publishers.

What advice would you give to other illustrators looking to join?

Spend time perfecting your portfolio - work out your style and process. And if you apply and don’t get in, don’t let it stop you. I almost didn’t apply a second time, thinking I’d already had my one shot. But it had been a few years, and my husband Ben encouraged me to try again - I’m so glad he did! It can feel disheartening, but there’s always room for growth and another chance.

What has been your Bright high point so far?

Gosh, there have been a few! From incredible opportunities landing in my inbox, to working on a variety of exciting projects, to knowing that my agents are constantly working behind the scenes to keep things moving - it’s been amazing. I’ve loved attending the winter parties and meeting other artists, and having one-on-one meetings with my agent Amy and Bright’s founder Vicki to discuss big, exciting ideas. The best part is knowing I’m no longer working alone - I have a brilliant team behind me, which gives me the confidence to aim high.

Has there been a low point?

Honestly, not really! As I mentioned earlier, the first few months felt slow, and I had a bit of uncertainty, but looking back I can see I was just being a bit impatient. It wasn’t a low point - more of a starting point!

Looking to the future, what are you most excited about?

I’m so excited to see where my journey with Bright goes next. Every year brings new challenges and exciting projects, and I know there’s so much more to come. My ultimate dream is to write and illustrate my own picture books - and I truly believe Bright will be the team to help make that happen!

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Becca is represented by Nicky Lander. To work with Becky, inquire with Nicky here.