“A year ago, I started a series of posts about drawing utensils I use. The first one revolved around self-contained pens called Creation of a Line – Part 1. For this installment, I will center around the pencil. While the last post got pretty indepth with some of the pens, this one is not as much.”

Check out Scott’s interesting examination of this most universal Illustrator’s tool here.

Last week, the final episode of the Escape from Illustration Island Podcast was released, featuring an in-depth interview with Zina Saunders.

In addition to all the gracious feedback from all of you, dear listeners, the great Steve Heller (who appeared on Episode 25), posted a nice tribute to the end of the show in his Daily Heller column, which lives on Print magazine’s Imprint blog. Thanks Steve, and everyone else, for your continued enthusiasm and support for this truly rewarding project.

Read the EFII Podcast feature on The Daily Heller

For the 81st and final episode of the Escape from Illustration Island Podcast, Thomas James interviews Illustrator Zina Saunders. Together they discuss her experiences working in multiple styles, her passion for working on personal and political projects, and a lot more. Thomas also includes a personal message to acknowledge the ending of the show and thank its many supporters.

Here are links to some of the things mentioned on the show:

• Zina Saunders Website
• Zina’s Video Series for Mother Jones
• 15 Steps to Freelance Illustration 

Hey Illustrators and Art Directors!

Today marks the official launch of Illo Confidential, a new site run by a collective of award-winning Illustrators who have joined forces to share their latest work with the world. They’ll be posting new illustrations there on a regular basis, so bookmark them to keep up with their latest creations. And while you’re at it, follow them on Facebook and Twitter, and help spread the word!

Go check out the Illo Confidential collective here.

(By Mark Kaufman for EFII)

Long story short. Mark Kaufman is a partner at Vivitiv, an issue oriented design firm based in Seattle. His illustrations have appeared in publications nationwide including The New York Times, The Progressive, The Stranger, and The Oxford American. – drawmark.com

Looking for ways to revitalize your business this year?

Check out this article that EFII’s Editor Thomas James recently wrote for the Agency Access blog that features 3 Illustrators who have taken matters into their own hands to create their own success.

Also, be sure to check out his critically-acclaimed eBook and Audiobook, 15 Steps to Freelance Illustration for an even more focused approach to building your freelance Illustration business.

(By Mark Kaufman for EFII)

Long story short. Mark Kaufman is a partner at Vivitiv, an issue oriented design firm based in Seattle. His illustrations have appeared in publications nationwide including The New York Times, The Progressive, The Stranger, and The Oxford American. – drawmark.com

Hey Illustrators!

Our friends and long-time supporters over at Agency Access are improving The Lab.

What’s The Lab you say? The Lab recruits industry experts to answer your questions on marketing … and it’s looking to build a greater voice specifically for illustrators, but they need your help! Please set aside a few minutes and submit your marketing questions to this survey. And to show its appreciation for your participation, one lucky participant will receive 1 FREE hour of consulting!

Complete the survey here: http://svy.mk/t7CI78

(By Mark Kaufman for EFII)

Long story short. Mark Kaufman is a partner at Vivitiv, an issue oriented design firm based in Seattle. His illustrations have appeared in publications nationwide including The New York Times, The Progressive, The Stranger, and The Oxford American. – drawmark.com

Illustration Age, the ultimate source for what’s happening in Illustration, was just named one of HOW Magazine’s Top 10 Sites for Designers! This marks the EFII Network’s second award in this category, with a previous nod to Escape from Illustration Island.

Thanks very much to HOW Magazine for recognizing our commitment to keeping you up to date with what’s happening in Illustration.

Be sure to take advantage of regular updates from Illustration Age so you don’t miss out: