Madison Ferdman is an illustrator based in Nashville

Madison Ferdman is an illustrator based in Nashville. Her work is vibrant, versatile, and inspired by the beauty of everyday things. With each project, she aims to combine her skills in illustration and typography while keeping a keen eye towards detail in order to produce an unforgettable result.

When she’s not creating art, she likes to travel with her husband or watch The Office while cuddling with her cat.

Here’s where we found out more…

When did you start illustrating?

I have been illustrating for as long as I can remember. I was always the ‘art girl’ since my first art class in elementary school. The very first way I made money from art was creating wedding stationary and signs for brides when I was just 15.

Who has been the most supportive in your illustration career, perhaps your teacher, family, friends?

My entire family and friends have always been supportive of me. My parents always made sure I had what I needed to create. I remember my dad giving me constant business advice because if you ask a teenage artist how much a painting costs, she will only charge you $15! My husband has been a true support for me as he has helped guide me into making this my career. He taught me how to communicate with clients professionally, how to make a name for myself, and he inspires me to do what I love.

Did you always think art was something that was going to be a major part of your life?

Of course, I never imagined pursuing anything else. I didn’t always know how to make art my career but I knew I would continue creating no matter what.

What is your favourite subject matter to illustrate?

I love to illustrate anything that can be seen and enjoyed by children – creating a world that is imaginary with friendly characters is where my creativity really comes to life. I love illustrating characters that display diversity and representation. I feel that every child should see themselves in a drawing or story.

How would you describe your style?

My style of illustration is characterised as vibrant, storytelling, and imaginary. I love adding both sketchy textures and dreamy lighting to my work.

What is your favourite collaboration to date?

My favourite collaboration was also a personal project that I worked on with my husband, Zach Ferdman. Together we wrote, illustrated, and printed a children’s book for our baby nephew where he was the main character learning about space. It was so much fun to come up with the story and I love collaborating with Zach because he’s a talented artist and designer.

What interested you about being represented by Illo Agency?

I was greatly inspired by the range of talent in the artists they represent.

Do you have a favourite author, film director, or designer?

My most recent inspiration is from the animation industry: Domee Shi, who was the first woman to get sole director’s credit on a film for Pixar. Her work in Turning Red is a huge inspiration to artists like me and she is inspiring young girls who are just discovering who they want to be.

Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?

I am always participating in monthly drawing challenges or if I see a DTIYS I like. I love doing daily challenges because I feel they help fine-tune my style and also create growth on my social media.

Do you listen to podcasts? If so, do you have a favourite?

I am actually not a big podcast fan (don’t come at me!). While I’m working, I will put any Studio Ghibli movie on in the background or I also love to listen to lo-fi music. I am a big fan of Lofi Girl.

If you’d like more info, please contact her agent: [email protected]

At illo agency, we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.