2D/3D Character Illustrator - Freelancer

Company Description

Zippy is an innovative AI-powered content platform and audio player designed for children aged 3–8. It combines timeless audio stories with immersive graphic books, offers engaging radio content throughout the day, and calming sleep stations for bedtime. Zippy uses AI to personalize family stories, evolving with each interaction to grow alongside the child. This technology enables a screen-free yet interactive adventure for children, supporting their growth and imagination.

Role Description

We are seeking a freelance 3D Illustrator Designer to work remotely on a part-time basis. The role involves creating 3D illustrations and designs that bring visual concepts to life, drawing imaginative original visuals for children, and refining graphics and artwork. The designer will collaborate with the creative team to align designs with Zippy's unique brand aesthetic tailored for young audiences.

Role Overview

We need a freelancer 3D designer who can create original, expressive, and kid-friendly characters for:

• Story Cards (Zippy Cards)
• Children’s Story Books
• Website Illustrations & Icons
• Figurine Concept Art (2D designs that translate well into 3D models)
• Candidates with 3D design experience (or understanding of 2D–to–3D conversion) will have an added advantage.

Key Responsibilities

• Create original 2D character concepts from scratch.
• Develop full character sheets, expressions, poses, and style variations.
• Design illustrations for cards, books, and brand assets.
• Work with the product and content teams to maintain a consistent visual style.
• Deliver clean, production-ready artwork suitable for both digital and print formats.
• Create 2D art that can be converted into 3D figurines.
• Brainstorm creative ideas and contribute to world-building for kids' storytelling.

https://forms.gle/6emSJiJTKBxWezcA8

Required Skills & Experience

• Relevant years of experience in 2D & 3D character design or children’s illustration.
• Strong understanding of anatomy, proportions, expressions, and stylization for kids’ themes.
• Ability to create unique, original, and non-copied artwork (non-Disney).
• Expertise in tools like Adobe Illustrator / Photoshop / Procreate / Clip Studio Paint.
• Ability to follow brand guidelines & create new styles when needed.
• Strong portfolio showcasing character designs, books/cards illustrations, etc.
• Plus: Experience with 3D tools (Blender/Maya/ZBrush) or converting 2D to 3D.

Nice-To-Have Skills

• Experience in toy design, figurines, or collectibles.
• Ability to create background illustrations for cards and books.
• Digital painting or textured illustration skills.

Who Should Apply?

• Artists who think originally, not copying other product's theme.
• Designers who understand children’s visual preferences.
• Highly creative individuals with strong storytelling imagination.

• Only experienced candidates - not entry-level.