My name is Joey Ellis and I draw pictures for money.
How did you get started in illustration? What is a turning point in your professional career?
I have always drawn. It was the one skill that I excelled at throughout school, so I just kept drawing and drawing. A turning point for me was starting my own business. After being employed as a designer for 10+ years, I started my own small studio and have been running that for the past 4 years.
What is your ideal work environment? Do you prefer to work at studio all day long or mix a few activities?
My idea work environment includes lots of interesting things to look at, a nice view/surroundings, delicious snacks/coffee and noice-cancelling headphones. I like to work all day. I don’t really consider it work… more like exploring. I do enjoy long vacations though and completely shutting everything out for a few weeks here and there.
Where does your work inspiration come from? (Do you believe in 'inspiration' at all)?
I do believe in inspiration. I really enjoying playing video games and going on nature hikes. Usually my inspiration comes when I’m not doing anything exciting. Going to art museums etc. don’t really stimulate me as much as mowing the yard does.
Where are your favorite art places in your city or outside?
I always love going to the toy store. I think toy stores are just full of exciting colors, materials and sounds. I can never ever turn down going to a toy store.