Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Rucker-Ehlers.
Hi Ariel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always had a propensity for the arts, something my parents nurtured in me when I was a kid. I had a wonderful teacher in high school who encouraged me to consider a career in the arts so eventually, I applied to art school and got in. I initially started out wanting to do concept art working in the movie industry, but as I grew and learned about my interests more my career path changed and I ended up in the costume design and wardrobe styling industry, but still working in movies and TV.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating my career path has definitely been full of ups and downs. I’d probably categorize myself as more of an introvert and in this industry that personality trait doesn’t really lend itself well. I was never very good at self-promotion and it took me a long long time to realize just how important connections were. I also feel like being a black woman in the industry for a time was particularly challenging because people had a hard time seeing me as adept in my field, probably because at the time it was uncommon.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Usually, when I’m introduced to new people, I tell them that I’m a stylist and costume designer. I think more accurately I would describe what I do as multi-disciplinary. I love so many aspects of the artistic and creative world. I enjoy taking photos, particularly on film, my education consists of many facets including traditional drawing and painting. I love design and illustration and often times when I’m working get the chance to fabricate some of my designs as costumes or garments. I would have to say though that I’m most proud of my drawing and painting, I work with watercolors and acrylic mostly and it’s the thing I’ve been doing the longest, the thing that really helps me bring out my creativity.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I would definitely say I was a nerdy kid growing up! I did not fit into the popular cliques at school. I loved art and comic books and sci-fi movies. I loved playing video games and writing. I played tennis for quite some time so I spent time in a few different circles but I always preferred hanging around with other nerds.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://soireeinthefoyer.onuniverse.com/?fbclid=PAAaZbDbAMaU5_XMtO5IY32qihOQa4fQ-5Gty-bZ7UvpDpBVo17x4xcTicqDg
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/soireeinthefoyer?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Image Credits
Brittnee Jarrett (model) Jennifer Grande (model)
