Artwork From Home: Rob Jelinski

Based in Bloomfield, New Jersey, Rob Jelinski is a jack of all trades when it comes to graphic design projects. As the founder and art director of Rob Jelinski Studios, he has developed branding and web design for small businesses around the country, from florals and skincare to meal subscription services and even helping freelance artists showcase their skills. You’ve also probably encountered Jelinski’s animated illustrations on Giphy! A participant in the Sketchbook Project since 2011, Rob’s sketchbooks are explorations of portraiture, pattern design, painting, and mixed-media that showcase the range of his creative practice.

On May 5th, 5PM EST, Jelinski will lead a virtual workshop on personal branding in the lead-up to our Telethon to Benefit the Brooklyn Art Library. Make sure to sign up and  join our virtual fundraiser to help support the project!

When did you first begin making art?

I always remember coloring and doodling. I first remember drawing illustrations when I was 8 or 9. My mom was also kind of old-school-crafty, so I always remember creating in those types of ways too.

What does your workspace look like now?

I try to keep my workspaces organized and meaningful. My iMac, my illustrations (new or favorites), pin collection, inspiration books, and new figures/design elements that help me remember there is another world outside of work. Some were given to me by my two boys, so those are extra special.

How have present circumstances affected your creativity?

These days, I usually have to ramp up my creativity; Give myself a pep talk or even just push through to the other side of a deadline and hope creativity finds me along the way. Before COVID-19, I used to wake up inspired to take on the day, so working in the creative industry is real right now.

What or who do you look to for inspiration? 

I find inspiration everywhere. I always have. I find it in fashion, music, film, photography, writing and literature, textiles, and conversations. I try to observe one detail I like in everything I see. Then note it and try to implement it into some of my work. Artists and designers that inspire me are Vincent van Gogh, Christoph Niemann, Paula Scher, BrandNu, Incarcerated Jerkface, and the list goes on. I also start each day with a strong cup of espresso and reading scripture!

What are some art-making materials you can’t live without?

Digital Design & Illustration: I would not be able to survive without Adobe Illustrator. Traditional Art: Micron pens and oil or acrylic Paints.

How do you make time for your art practice at home? 

I try to pick up my sketchbook at least once a week with my morning coffee (I’d like to say every day, but it really depends on the workload) to draw just for fun. These days, I also try to pick a weeknight to draw virtually with art friends or have a coloring book session to relax. On the design side, I try to attend designer meet-ups (like CreativeMornings or TypeThursday) once a month to stay connected with my love for typography and design.

Your company, Rob Jelinski Studios, creates branding designs and illustrations, as well as provides creative services for companies of all sizes. Can you talk about how you decided to pursue design and illustration as a career?

Through art school, I grew to love moonlighting as a freelancer and the hustle of finding new work and clients. For years, it was just that, extra freelance work. But after the market crash of 2008, some doors closed for full-time work and new doors opened to make freelance my full-time job. Blazing your own path hasn’t been easy, but I love a good challenge and I have grown to the love lifestyle.

Do you have any advice for artists who are interested in the field of branding and graphic design?

Brand design circles around illustration, typography, and art direction. Essentially you are helping companies translate their mission and services/products into meaningful visuals. For any artist looking to add design into their skillset, I would say immerse yourself in typography and art direction and then practice implementing typography into your artwork and your artwork into layouts.

What role have sketchbooks played either in your career or in your art practice outside of work? 

A sketchbook helps me create art that is vulnerable and unpolished. There is no command+z like digital. Sometimes I hate that fact like when I draw a line I feel is out of place. But my sketchbook has helped remind me to appreciate the mistakes and try to make each line purposeful all at the same time.

How has illustration changed the way you see the world?

Illustration helps me see the feelings attached to the world around us. When you illustrate a cute dog, you have to choose which lines/details/colors best express the feeling you want to translate through the illustration.

How do you get through creative blocks? 

It depends on the deadline honestly. Typically, I allow enough lead time to take a break (go for a walk, cook a meal, create a new animated gif or jump into a passion project like the Beth Ellen font) when I hit a creative block. But if time does not allow, I get up for a quick snack and change my playlist. Many times, even a quick shift of your attention or surrounding will help you power through a creative block.

What’s the best piece of art-making advice you ever received? 

“Done is better than perfect.”

How can people support your work?

Follow along on social and like, comment, or share work that you love of mine or the studio. Someone is always looking for branding or design services, so you just spreading the word does wonders. Of course, we can also work together on a project or book a strategy session.