Q&A with artist Kelli Murray
June 7, 2012 | 4:19 pm | Posted in: Design
Kelli Murray – in the meanwhile Kelli Larson – is a 28-year old artist from San Diego. The first time I came across her was over at LOOKBOOK.nu where she posts her fabulous outfits and would often add a lovely little drawing of herself in the collage. Those drawings immediately blew me away and so I began to follow her work and super adorable blog. I have to say, there are not many people who are so talented and inspiring me to do what I love in the way Kelli does! So, I asked her for a little interview and hopefully her words will inspire you too.
1. Hi Kelli! At what point in your life did you decide to do what you do now?
I suppose it was during my last year of high school that I decided I wanted to go to school for fashion design. I graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandise and landed a job as a graphic designer and merchandiser for a clothing company soon after. Fashion and art have always been my passion. While working as a designer has always been my career… painting and illustrating has served as my main personal creative outlet. And it’s something that I have come to enjoy most and hope to pursue even further.
2. How have you worked your way into illustrating, painting and designing for a living?
Like I mentioned above, fashion and graphic design came first for me. I have worked in the fashion industry for over 6 years now. Illustrating and painting I have always considered just my “hobby”….but I have found it is where my heart lies. I started an etsy shop where I sell all of my art prints, and I hope to add more as time goes on.
3. You recently became a mom of lovely little Rylee, has this changed things in your career?
More than you know :) I quit my full time job and transitioned into a freelance artist and graphic designer only a few months ago. I did this because I wanted to be home with Rylee but also work on select projects as time would allow. It has been really fun and inspiring to work on different projects for people. From branding and logo design, to invitation design, to commissioned artwork. Although my workload is not as heavy as it used to be, I feel like I am in a really good place and excited to see where this new “freelance adventure” will take me.
4. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in life?
To always remember to slow down and be thankful for the blessings I’ve been given. Juggling the responsibilities that come along with being a wife, mother, and working artist is not an easy task. I often feel like I am on a roller coaster that never ends. I’ve learned over time that balance is key to sanity. While I still don’t have it all figured out, I am learning. My husband is largely to thank for helping me to live in the moment, and enjoy the simple things in life instead of always worrying about “what’s next”.
5. How do you see yourself in 10 years from now?
A few more kids, living in a happy home, still working as a designer on projects I love, and hopefully running my own online paper shop. I’ve always dreamed of starting my own stationary line…but we will see where life takes me!
Want to know more about Kelli?
Check out: www.kellimurray.com
