Sometimes you come across a piece that just stops you in your tracks — that’s how we felt about this next maker, Carmen Ellis. Carmen creates surreal, and dream-like pieces that are full of personality. We cannot wait to share more about her creative journey, what inspires her and of course, a closer look at the beautiful pieces she crafts. Enjoy!
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Hi, Carmen, tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
I’m Carmen Ellis, an LA-based designer. I’m originally from Portland, OR, where our city motto is ‘Keep Portland Weird.’ I’ve always taken ‘weird’ as a compliment and been proud to be a bit different.
I have a great love of interior design. The objects and art in the spaces I’ve lived have forever been a medley of the strange and feminine. I believe one’s home should showcase the nuances of their personality through the art that fills it.
Fast-forward, and my affinity for the eccentric has evolved into the unique yet elegant statement pieces I design for the home and the people who, like me, ‘keep it a little weird.’
Describe your style as an artist. What medium do you use?
I’m interested in creating refined and timeless designs that offer an element of surprise. My work is rooted in surrealism, but I design in a very modern way. I use 3D modeling and 3D printing in the initial phases of creating each work. Once a design is printed, we make molds and slip cast each piece by hand—a mix of very modern and classic technologies.
Where do you find inspiration?
Everywhere I look, I see objects with the potential to morph into something else. I find inspiration in the idea that I can transform the world around me and bring it to life through the works I create.
What does your workspace look like? Do you work from home or in a studio?
My studio is full of plants. I didn’t realize after designing a line of planters, I’d soon become a crazy plant lady, but here I am.
I feel incredibly grateful to have a studio at my home in Venice. It’s been invaluable to work from home, especially during this time of quarantine. For me, creating can be a messy process that requires a large, clean, bright space so I can clearly focus on my ideas.
Who are some of your favorite artists? Musicians? People who inspire you?
I am inspired by:
The levity and humor of John Baldessari
The soft lines and elegance of Brâncuși
The colors and drama of Georgia O’Keeffe
The playful beauty of Les Lalanne
The existential experience that is James Turrell
I could go on and on.
Where can we see and/or purchase your art? Be sure to let us know about any upcoming shows, events, or publications.
I spend most of my time on Instagram—@carmen.ellis.studio—so follow me there to stay up to date on the latest. I recently launched my website www.carmenellis.com; that’s the place to go to purchase my works.
What are the next steps in your career?
Expanding my designs into new mediums and categories. If all goes accordingly, and design fairs are once again a thing in 2021, I’d love to launch a full collection of larger furniture pieces and lighting at a fair next year. Fingers crossed!