In this Creativepool Member Spotlight, we shine a light on Rob Hooper, a talented illustrator and cartoonist whose playful yet refined style has captivated clients and audiences alike. Rob’s journey from graphic design to illustration is marked by an insatiable curiosity, an unending passion for learning, and a desire to keep pushing creative boundaries.

In this exclusive interview, Rob shares his creative process, insights into the industry, and reflections on what makes great art and inspiration thrive. Dive in as we explore what fuels his vibrant work and the unique perspective that sets him apart in the world of illustration.

How did you first get into the industry?

I studied Graphic Design and worked in the industry for about 15 years before I chose to specialise as an illustrator.

Where are you based now and who do you work for?

I live in Stratford Upon Avon in the UK, I freelance for a range of clients who like and appreciate my work.

What is your personal background and what role did it play in your career?

I think I am a curious individual who loves to discover new things. New opportunities and challenges invigorate me. Learning about industries, products and people is a natural consequence of taking on new projects which feed my curiosity.

If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?

Probably a Marine Biologist fighting for the Oceans!

Can you explain your creative process? What makes it unique?

I first read the brief and make sure I have understood the client’s brief accurately. Then I will begin with thumbnails of the illustration to allow the client to confirm that I have grasped what is required. 

Once that is approved, I go through an iterative process of developing and refining roughs until the client is happy.  When the client is satisfied with the roughs I proceed to either a presentation piece or final execution – be that vector or pixel art.

How would you describe your style?

It would be best described as Stylised Realism.  In my cartoons I strive for sensitive, lean lines and juicy colours.

Which individuals do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?

I really appreciate the work of Papa Ninja, Loopy Dave, Otto Schmidt, Evan Lee, Denis Zilber, Johannes Helgeson and Brett Parsons.  To me, they represent the pinnacle of mastery in my field at the moment.

What tips would you give to aspiring creatives looking for work?

Always try your best, copy the greats to start with and your own personal style will emerge, but you will learn good habits along the way. :D

What tips would you give to other professionals to get more clients?

Always do the best you can under the circumstances, you never know who will see your work and make a choice to use or not use you based on what they see.

Can you share a memorable experience from your career journey that shaped your approach to creativity?

I once worked under a creative director who insisted that creative people with interesting, full lives are better than ones that slave away like serfs in a salt mine.  I learnt to make time to rest.  You simply can’t keep sawing down trees without stopping to sharpen the saw.

What kind of tools/kit/software could you not do without?

My trusty Mac workspace.  I rely on my Wacom Cintiq, iPad and HomePod far more than is appropriate!

What’s your secret to staying inspired and motivated?

Rest.  Other things. Reading, watching movies, embracing life.

What’s the work achievement you’re most proud of?

I don’t measure my achievements with my work.  I consider friends, family, knowledge and experiences more valuable to me than accolades.

As someone with experience in the industry, what trends do you foresee shaping the future of creativity?

I think AI will have an initial impact, but eventually humans will get better than AI and take the step to the next level.

What do you think sets apart truly exceptional creatives from the rest of the pack?

Great ideas that are well executed!

How do you think technology has influenced the creative industries and how have you adapted to these changes?

Well, obviously IT and AI have had a profound effect on the deliverables.  We will simply do better, get faster and make the most incredible art that people would never have imagined - even a few years ago.  It’s truly impressive how the entertainment & gaming industries have spawned such incredible young artists in the past decade or so,

What is the one thing that you would change about the industry?

I’d put creatives back at the helm of all creative studios.  I see the most amazing work come out of studios where creativity is placed above the bottom line.  Let the bean counters and executives serve the studio - not the other way around.

Any websites, books or resources you would recommend?

Too many to mention, so let’s see:  Perhaps anything that excites you?  You’d be amazed where inspiration comes from…