Think art majors can only become painters and sculptors? Think again. Emily Dumas is leading by example and motivating her students to think beyond the clichés. A prolific illustrator and designer, her work can be seen anywhere from galleries across the US to a mug at TJ Maxx. Her former job as an art director in advertising allowed her to work with major brands. After she left advertising, she took her branding experience and passion for illustration and ventured out on her own. Did we mention her brother plays in the band Tall Heights? Emily’s cool factor is off the charts and her motivation to encourage her students shines. Learn more about this talented teacher in our most recent Q&A then ogle her work at emilydumasillustration.com.
What do you love most about being an art educator at Salem State?
Seeing the students grow from when they start to when they are seniors. I love to see how they adapt to so many different technologies. I am super passionate about what I do and I instill that in my students.
What impresses you most about our student population?
They learn really quickly. Show them how to do something and they’ve got it. They are driven and understand responsibility. They care about what they are putting into the work.
What would you say to someone who is nervous to pick a major within the Art + Design department for fear that jobs are not available?
You have to think of yourself as a visionary. All the principles of art are the same, it’s just the medium you choose to use that differs. You can design a menu or you can design what an entire restaurant might look like.
What are some lesser known jobs art + design majors can pursue?
You could design shoes, create toys, design apparel, make murals… The possibilities are endless. I do art licensing which has been really interesting and something I didn’t even know existed until years after college.
In your art director days, you designed work for major brands like Dunkin’ Donuts. Now, as an illustrator which professional project has been your favorite thus far?
I illustrated a children’s book which was challenging and new to me. I also really like licensing to bigger brands such as TJX. It’s so exciting seeing your work on mugs, calendars, coasters, notepads, and greeting cards. I’ve also worked with a gallery that’s known for their pop-art themed shows. So I’ve had work displayed in shows around themes for Bob’s Burgers, Wes Anderson films and Lord of the Rings to name a few.
How has social media helped your personal brand?
Social media is vital for an artist, especially Instagram. It’s an outlet for you to display your brand and it’s a great way to connect with other people in the industry. You’ll likely get many more views of your Instagram channel than you would your personal website. Companies often find me on social. But it’s not just about the digital and social space. You have to put the work in in-person as well. You have to go meet people.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing my product or art in the real world. Also, building my network and creating relationships with other like-minded people.
What would you tell your 18-year-old self?
Don’t take yourself so seriously. It’s okay if you don’t know what you want to do with your life. You don’t really discover who you are until a decade or more after college. And never give up on your art. There is plenty of work out there for everyone.
Connect with Emily and view her full portfolio at emilydumasillustration.com.