Malia Ewart on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Malia Ewart. Check out our conversation below.

Malia, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve spent most of this past year traveling for conventions, and its been some of the most fun I’ve had in years! From cross-country driving to flying, we’ve been able to visit cities like Seattle, Chicago, and NYC while working and its honestly the only way to go if you have the option.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a freelance illustrator, I currently work on Disney’s Lorcana and for Marvel Snap. What’s been great about working on my own schedule is that I can travel while I work, allowing me to do conventions with virtually no conflict.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
Probably every Art Director I’ve had in my career. Whether it’s technical knowlegde or perspective and work style, I feel like they’ve taught me the most valuable information in my field, more than I could’ve imagined learning in college.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I wouldn’t necessarily say “give up” but with the state of the animation industry and the massive reduction in jobs, I had to pivot and find work in other lines of business. I’ve been very lucky that I shifted into the convetion scene and participating in artist alley’s, and have had a consistent stream of income. Being apart of events like San Diego and New York City ComicCon has allowed me opportunites to be scouted for most of the freelance jobs I work currently, included Lorcana. I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected and go with the flow.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Integrity. I work hard and I care a lot about the work that I put out into the world. I’ve struggled a lot with the art theft scene in the digital art space, and while some might say “that’s a sign you’ve made it” it can be asbolyutely gutting– it’s worse than ever now. Being inspired by Netflix’s Kpop Demon Hunters, I made a band poster featuring the girls paying homage to the movie and celebrating how much I loved it. What I didn’t expect was seeing it stolen plastered on cheaply made merchandise across the globe, from lanyards to blankets, I can’t seem to escape it. It has been a fraught situation for me and it’s hard not to feel hopeless, nearly every person I have reached out to who is selling my stolen artwork has been entitled and aggressive toward me with is just baffling. Not an ounce of integrity.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
I hope a fun, caring person and a good friend. I’ve been so fortunate to make so many friends these past few years and hope through what I do and I finally feel like I’ve found my people. If all else were to fall away, I hope I display this at my core.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maliaewart.carrd.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maliadoodles/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malia-ewart-016515135/