
About
Hi there — and welcome! I’m Matthew R. Paden, I'm a Kansas City cartoonist and illustrator. If you’re looking for fun, colorful characters and custom cartoon illustrations that pop with personality, you’re in the right place!
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How To Hire A Cartoonist In 2025
Hiring a freelance cartoonist in 2025 is all about finding real talent with a human touch—someone who brings personality, creativity, and professionalism to your project. Start by reviewing portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your vision, and don’t hesitate to ask about their process and whether they create original, hand-crafted work. Be wary of offers that seem too cheap to be true or portfolios filled with overly polished, generic-looking “AI art”—these often lack originality, proper licensing, and the ability to revise or adapt your ideas. A good cartoonist will happily discuss concepts, sketch rough ideas, and tailor the work to your needs—things AI can’t genuinely replicate. Look for artists who clearly communicate, offer contracts or written agreements, and value collaboration. In short: invest in authenticity, ask questions, and trust professionals who proudly stand by the integrity of their craft.