A little bit about me
Did you always aim at becoming an illustrator?
As a child our family was very crafty, My mother was a professional seamstress, My father was a scientist and also very creative, he loved to paint and make furniture and as children, my sister and I loved to draw, knit and sew our own creations.
Could you tell us about your education and where you studied art?
I was born in Germany and my school years where spent in New Zealand. After I finished High School my father was offered a job at the United Nations so we moved to Vienna in Austria where I attended the Vienna Design School.
After returning to New Zealand I completed the graphic design course at Wellington Polytechnic and was awarded a Diploma with Distinction in Graphic Design.
I worked at an advertising agency in Auckland for a year and discovered quickly that I was suited to working independently so I became a freelance illustrator.
I was thrilled to be commissioned by a British publication company to create a series of 13 paper craft books.
Other highlights include creating art for American Greetings, Hallmark, Djeco, Samsung Department Store in Korea and a range of products sold in David Jones. I have recently enjoyed designed several fabrics for Nutex in New Zealand.
Undoubtedly my biggest project has been opening my store "ELLEN G" in Petone. For 3 years now it has been so rewarding constantly creating new products and meeting so many lovely people.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from so many different places, my natural environment, the internet, any where, mid century children's books, and everywhere can spark and idea. I always appreciate feedback from my customers, they come up with some fantastic suggestions.
Do you have a life motto?
Something that you find inspirational and drives you?
I have learnt to enjoy the little things in life and being in the moment. Rather than dwelling on what I don't have I try to appreciate what I do have.
My little piece of advice for anyone dreaming of creating a business from their creativity is: take the time to develop and perfect your craft (this is ongoing) create your own distinctive style that sets you apart, keep working toward your ultimate goal and never give up. See set backs part of the journey. I've learnt as much about what isn't right for me as what is!
It's taken me a while but I'm finally living my dream.