#icon6

John Jay Cabuay's illustrations have graced the covers of newspapers, magazines, and books worldwide. His recent project a picture book he illustrated "Get Up Stand Up" published by Chronicle Books just got published. He also recently received his MFA in illustration from the Fashion Institute of Technology. He draws in his studio in New York's Lower East Side.

Where did you first learn about ICON?

I first heard of ICON through my illustrator friends and the first conference I attended was the one held in New York City. I remember getting a spot at the "Roadshow," and that was eye-opening for me. I met so many illustrators and art directors from all over the world and got to talk to them about their careers. I was delighted to meet art directors that said to me "Oh! I know your work! Glad to finally meet you!" From then on, ICON was on my radar.

Tell us about the best part of your ICON experience.

ICON is an amazing conference that allows you to connect, bond, and share ideas with other illustrators and potential clients. It also opens doors to discover illustrators that you may not have heard of (but suddenly, you are a fan!). I’ve met wonderful people at ICON that I now call friends (you know who you are....).

One of the highlights of my experience was when I got invited to be a guest speaker at ICON6 in Pasadena, California. I was a nervous wreck (it may have been the largest audience I have spoken to), but I got through it.

How has your experience with ICON impacted your creative career?

I find new inspirations by feeding off the positive energy and seeing fresh new work that grabs me at these events. Doors opened for me by showcasing my work at ICON conferences and I’ve gotten opportunities to work with new clients who visited the events. And by passing my business cards to art directors, I was spreading the word of my existence and connecting with potential clients.

After being a guest speaker at ICON, I remember feeling a change in the air. I felt that the work I was creating and getting after I got back that fall season started to blossom in a good way.

Any advice for ICON first-timers?

For aspiring illustrators: be friendly, be kind, and be curious. The worst thing you can do is not be sociable. You just never know who you are going to meet at ICON events. Have a business card or promo card handy. If you feel insecure about being there for the first time, alway remember that YOU are NOT ALONE.