Hi, I wanted to ask for some advice here (is there another place to ask if this isn't the right one?).

I studied animation and character design online (without a degree), and despite sending my portfolio to local (and some international) companies, as of this writing, none have responded (99+ emails sent). I see that to get into certain companies, you need to have a prior relationship with the owner or study at a university they have an agreement with. Am I right? Am I wrong?

I've been getting by on commissions and freelance work, but because I'm very reluctant to use social media and don't currently have a significant number of followers (likes/followers), it's been a bit more difficult than expected to make ends meet.

The truth is, I got tired of being stuck in a room doing jobs that haven't helped me reach the next level (I'm referring to professional development/progress here, not so much the financial aspect).

I've already tried working in fields completely unrelated to art, and it just doesn't work for me. I've had several jobs, and when they read my resume and see my education section, they tell me, "You're not going to find anything here; you have to leave the country." I'd gladly do that, but how? Generally, I see opportunities abroad that require a degree or university agreement; from what I've gathered, you need a significant amount of money to emigrate and a guaranteed job; contacts are important, and the paperwork is extremely extensive. I'd really appreciate some advice because, honestly, right now I don't know what to do.

Some random works I enjoyed making.

This is of course a pretty complicated thing to give an answer to but I'll try.

Honestly if you want to get more jobs in art and animation (Especially on bigger companies) the unfortunate reality is that the connections you have is a huge part of what type of job you can land. I have experienced the same issues to a lesser extent but for me it's in the video game industry instead. Knowing the right people can help you get into positions way easier, especially if the connections has a personal link to you or they know you.

Now, you can still get places without connections too but it's an uphill battle. I don't want to sugarcoat it, so all I will say is that it might take time and effort to get into the place you want to be career-wise.

With all the negative sides out of the way, I do have some more positive feedback and advice. The fact that you have already taken a few commissions on the side is great. It's a legitimate boon by selling your art and spreading your reputation as a talented artist. I will though admit that getting and mantaining a high social media following is ultimate mostly down to luck atleast 90-95 % of the time, so I can't sadly give much advice on that.

At the end of the day I can give a little strategy that might help you with your dream. I'd recommend still doing commissions and freelance on the side (Maybe 50% of your occupation) and for the 50% left you could get a part-time job (It doesn't have to be fancy or something super high-paying). Just something that'll keep you afloat with the pure cold cash while you continue chasing the animation jobs in the meantime.

Again, might not be the best advice but I do hope this helps atleast a little bit. : )

Hey!!

I worked for Jersey House Studio (super indie) & went to SCAD. Your art looks good but I need to see your portfolio to be able to give a critique! I'd love to help. Can you give me the link?

I love indie stuff, I would rather that than a big company