We recently had the chance to connect with Ellen Surrey and have shared our conversation below.
Ellen, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Honestly, it’s painting. I love painting, but these days I don’t paint as often as I’d like. Most of my client work requires adjustments, and it makes more sense to work digitally. But when I have the time, I love to put on a favorite podcast and paint for hours. Painting transports me back to my childhood bedroom, to a time of exploration and experimentation, reminding me of why I love making art. It strips away all the possibilities that the computer offers and forces me to make mistakes and find creative solutions. Painting is like a reset for my creativity.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! I’m Ellen Surrey, an illustrator and designer working out of sunny Los Angeles, California. The city has always been a source of inspiration for me, as it is where I grew up. Whether it’s the quirky architecture, the history, or the sunshine itself, I can always find something to inspire me. I’m especially fascinated with California modernism, and it’s a big reason why I often reference mid-century design in my work.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my dad is really important to me. He is also an artist, and because of this, I too wanted to be an artist growing up. Originally, I thought I wanted to be an animator like him, but when I was in middle school, I had the opportunity to take an animation class. It was by experiencing animation that I realized I preferred the process of illustration far more than seeing my drawings move. But whether I was interested in being an animator or not, my dad has always been supportive of my art.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
While I don’t think I have a fear of putting myself out there, I do have a fear of reaching out and asking for help. I often feel that I have to figure out problems on my own, and asking for help has always been a challenge. While I’ve gotten better over the years, it occasionally holds me back. In particular, when looking for work. As a freelancer, it is up to me to promote myself and find new clients. I have no problem doing the research needed to find those clients, but when it comes time to reach out, I freeze. It always feels weird sending a cold email to a stranger, and there’s always the possibility of rejection. But over the years, I’ve learned just to rip off the band-aid and click send. You have to shoot your shot and see what happens. You never know if it could result in something great.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
As a commercial illustrator, this business isn’t for everyone. It’s hard to make a full-time living in this industry. While I think everyone can be creative, I don’t think everyone has the skill and drive to make a career out of their creativity. I personally can’t see myself doing anything different as a career. Plan B has always been to make Plan A work. I’ve been working on my craft for as long as I can remember, and continue to do so even when things get hard. It’s great that there are creatives out there inspiring others to be creative, but the competition and struggle aren’t talked about enough, and as a result, people end up finding out the hard way. Overall, I wish there were more transparency in this industry instead of so many of us pretending it isn’t as hard as it really is.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I think so. I’ve never imagined myself doing anything different. I often describe my art making as a compulsion; it’s just something I have to do. I have so many ideas and I want to make as many of them a reality as possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ellensurrey.com
- Instagram: @yesurrey
