Hey hey! My name is Kailey J. Smith, and I'm a children's book illustrator! I have written five manuscripts, storyboarded three of them, and have almost fully completed one! (It will hopefully be out my the end of the year!) My goal is to spread a little joy in the world using my art. I want to inspire the next generation, and make the world a happier place. I primarily work in Procreate and Photoshop, but I have proficient skills in Adobe Illustrator as well as traditional media such as pastels, charcoal, and watercolor!…

Kailey J. Smith

Hey hey! My name is Kailey J. Smith, and I'm a children's book illustrator! I have written five manuscripts, storyboarded three of them, and have almost fully completed one! (It will hopefully be out my the end of the year!) My goal is to spread a little joy in the world using my art. I want to inspire the next generation, and make the world a happier place. I primarily work in Procreate and Photoshop, but I have proficient skills in Adobe Illustrator as well as traditional media such as pastels, charcoal, and watercolor!…

Available to hire

Hey hey! My name is Kailey J. Smith, and I’m a children’s book illustrator! I have written five manuscripts, storyboarded three of them, and have almost fully completed one! (It will hopefully be out my the end of the year!) My goal is to spread a little joy in the world using my art. I want to inspire the next generation, and make the world a happier place.

I primarily work in Procreate and Photoshop, but I have proficient skills in Adobe Illustrator as well as traditional media such as pastels, charcoal, and watercolor!

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Children’s Book Author/Illustrator at Ringling College of Art and Design
January 1, 2025 - Present
Developed and wrote stories featuring moral lessons for young readers; researched graphic design principles and studied masters of the field; collaborated with other students to rework and improve story and illustrations; created storyboards and dummy books to finalize book layout; worked under deadlines and responded diplomatically to client critique and requests; scheduled weekly meetings to check progress and receive feedback on elements such as character design and writing.
Freelance Artist at private art commissions
December 1, 2024 - January 31, 2025
Provided finished illustrations and process work for various clients; reviewed client’s needs and met with them to ensure satisfaction; used Adobe Photoshop and Procreate in developing original artwork under strict deadlines; oversaw printing processes, choice of papers, color specs and adjusted images to better express clients’ needs; researched illustrators and illustration styles to best match what the client had in mind; biweekly meetings to check on progress and receive feedback to ensure the price matched the client’s vision.
Student Volunteer at Ringling College of Art and Design
October 1, 2023 - Present
Cleaned up slipping hazards and provided refreshments for therapy dogs and their handlers; set up and broke down event area and activity stations; answered questions and provided information to event attendees to ensure complete satisfaction.
Community Service Assistant at Matlacha Hookers
September 1, 2022 - May 1, 2025
Cleaned up trash along the Matlacha Bridge and highway; fundraised for hurricane damage, school funds, and families in need by managing sales stands.
Community Volunteer at Ocean Church
October 1, 2022 - Present
Distributed donations, supplies, and hot meals to victims of Hurricane Ian; assembled hygiene kits and lunch boxes for hurricane victims; worked in a team to assess victim needs and provide the required resources.
Children's Book Author/Illustrator at Ringling College of Art and Design
January 1, 2025 - Present
As part of several illustration projects and classes: developed and wrote stories featuring moral lessons for young readers, such as accepting change and dealing with jealousy. Researched graphic design principles and studied masters of the field. Collaborated with other students to rework and improve story and illustrations. Created storyboards and dummy books to finalize book layout. Worked under deadlines and responded diplomatically to client critique and requests. Scheduled weekly meetings to check on progress and receive feedback on elements such as character design, story elements, writing, etc.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts at Ringling College of Art and Design
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2027
Bachelor of Fine Arts at Ringling College of Art and Design
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2027

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services
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