Today we’d like to introduce you to Elke Sudin.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I studied illustration at one of the top art schools in the US. When I graduated, I realized that my passion for drawing people on paper wasn’t efficient or sustainable. I heard of artists experimenting with sketching on their iPad. So, in 2014, a week before “NY Tech Day” in NYC, where I volunteered to sketch, I bought an iPad Air, drew up some business cards, and Drawing Booth was born.
Fast forward a decade later, and my company, Drawing Booth, is the premiere agency offering digital live sketching for major companies, brands, and experiential pop-ups across the country. I was able to translate what I loved doing the most, with the added features and functionality of the digital age, and turn it into a sustainable business spanning multiple locations and continents.
As an artist, I am always looking to grow and expand my horizons. Recently I began venturing into fashion with luxury scarves with my original designs literally tying together my religious and spiritual identity through the practice of head covering with my artwork. In February, I made my New York Fashion Week debut with my brand, Elke NYC, showcasing my scarves along with unique patent-pending technical apparel of my own design. I am now running a crowd-funding campaign to fund an initial production.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I first started sketching on my iPad, I couldn’t even borrow an iPad at the time. This was 2014, and I was an early career artist. I dug out $400 and bought myself an iPad Air to test out my concept. I was told I was wasting my money. It’s helpful to look back and remember the times when it’s good not to listen to reasonable advice.
In those early days, people didn’t quite understand the concept of what I was offering. That’s why my company ended up being called Drawing Booth, playing off the popularity of the reimagined photo booths that gained popularity with advances in digital imaging and becoming increasingly easy to brand and share. Despite the name, there is no actual booth, as the artists are completely mobile.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Launching on Kickstarter May 1st, the Travel Skant Duo is my answer to every woman’s dilemma on what do I pack on my epic adventure or weekend getaway and turns backpackers into runway models. It’s a chic two-piece set that looks like designer streetwear but is made of a moisture wicking nylon blend highlighted by luxury cuts and details ready for the kayak or the night out. What makes these pieces truly unique is the combination of a destinctly international modest silhouette with the functionality you would find from your local hiking shop so your everyday feels like you are ready for literally anything.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see the events industry continuing to incorporate trends from social media and provide more opportunities for our digital lives and our in-person experiences to overlap and create hybrid experiences.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Saul Sudin
Felipe Monegro
