We recently had the chance to connect with Eli Swinson and have shared our conversation below.
Eli, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have a 3 month old daughter, and one of my greatest joys has been watching her grow and experience so many new things—and learning to experience life through so many new perspectives alongside her.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was born and raised in Raleigh, and growing up here has deeply shaped my perspective as an artist. I’ve spent years immersed in the local music and art scene, going to live shows, taking part in community events and that raw, creative energy stuck with me. I’m drawn to things that are a little offbeat, gritty, and not afraid to be weird. That sense of uninhibited expression is what I aim to channel in my own work.
I’m always open to commissioned work, and these days, I spend most of my free time creating designs for print media. Eventually, I’d love to dive into screen printing and start translating my designs from paper and stickers onto clothing. For now, though, I’m just focused on making weird, fun art whenever I get the chance.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve always loved being outside. When I was little, I loved building stuff and knocking it down, and I guess I still do. I think that the older I’ve gotten, the less I’ve known what the heck I’m doing, but I always have this constant drive to make things–to do something with my hands that’s tangible and can feel. I think that’s something that’s given me a sense of direction, and even when the world keeps going and I feel aimless I can still build something, draw something, write something, just anything to get that anxious energy out and manifest something new.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely. A lot of life is moments of feeling like I want to give up–but life is also a lot of moments of remembering to keep moving forward.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Just be nice to people. We all have bad days, and we’re all human, but just basic kindness goes a long way. Everyone is different and everyone is deserving of basic kindness and compassion.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
I’ll regret not having the courage to take a chance on myself sooner. We never get more time, but I’m glad that I’m where I’m at and I’ll keep trying to be a little better each day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://eliswinson.com/
- Instagram: @iamelihowdy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijah-swinson/
