We met Kelli Murray in early 2009 at a charity event in San Diego. She was wandering around with both of her arms full of art trying to find out where she needed to set up. Needless to say, she found a great spot by the door where everyone admired her art all night long.

Over the past 2 years we have gotten to know Kelli as both an artist and friend. She is amazing at both. We are excited to call her a friend and part of the WLC family.

Today is a big day for We Love Creativity. It is the first time that we have released a Limited Edition Print (LEP) on our new website and we couldn’t think of a better person to join in on the fun then Kelli. Take a minute to read through our exclusive Q + A to see what’s on her mind.

After you’re done, stop by our store and check out Kelli’s limited edition print, Protect the Ones You Love. There are only 50 and each one has been signed/number by Kelli Murray herself…make sure to get your own before they are gone!

How are you doing today?

Pretty good thanks. Actually, I am looking forward til my workday is over so I can meet Sam at Brigantine for Taco Tuesday! yaaa!

Sounds like a good time! We heard that you and Sam recently got married. Any plans to start using your new last name for your art?

Haha! Nope! Don’t get me wrong, I love my husband and my new last name but I feel like the artist in me began as a Murray, and I’m sticking to it.

What city do you call home?

Encinitas. Best place on earth.

We know that you have a cat that looks like a lion…what’s the story behind his haircut?

Poor guy. His hair got so dreaded that we were forced to shave him bald. Everywhere but his feet and head that is. We call him our little lamb chop, remember that show Lamb Chop’s Play Along? Anyway, he acts more like a dog than a cat. We can’t get enough of him.

How long have you been an artist?

I’ve been doing graphic design for about 7 years now…tee shirts, band merch, posters ect. Painting for me came a little later. But I have to say, I think it’s my favorite.

We think that you are an amazing artist, what fuels your creativity?

Oh man. I am constantly getting inspired. Music, art books and blogs, vintage shops and things from the past, nature and animals, warm fuzzy feelings, I don’t know…but probably above all, the encouragement and support from my friends and family.

You painted a ship on the skateboard that you submitted for Eighth Ply. What inspired you to create something very different than your normal artwork?

Sometimes I enjoy drawing things other than my typical characters. I have been on a big “nautical” kick recently…(well both nautical and Native American) and just decided to draw from what I’ve been inspired by. Usually I don’t show my work that is not typical “Kelli” style art…I guess to keep consistent with who I am and what people know of me. But I’ve been thinking differently lately. I like the idea of mixing it up and creating things unexpected.

How do you overcome creative blocks?

Uhhh, I get them all the time. It’s hard because my job requires creativity and then I get home and what I love to do most, paint, also requires creativity. But sometimes, the ideas just aren’t flowing. So, when I’m in a funk, I have to step away from the computer, or away from the canvas…and do normal things. Like go for a walk, or ride my bike, or have a heart to heart with my mom (aka the most encouraging human I know)…or spend a few hours with my nose in books at Borders. Sometimes just the simple everyday things in life rekindle my creativity.

What do you listen to while you’re creating?

Honestly, it’s always changing. Today, Frightened Rabbit was my artist of choice.

Do you feel that collaborating with other artists is important?

For sure. I think working together with other artists only help fuel and challenge your own art.

What artists inspire you?

Amy Sol, Ghost Patrol, Thomas Campbell, Sarah McNeil…and so many more.

What goals (artistically) do you have for the next few years?

I just want to keep growing as an artist. Whatever that might mean. I don’t want to ever get stale and continue creating the same thing over and over because it is working. I feel like I have gotten trapped in that before. I want to challenge myself and create more art…for me…because I am inspired and not because I am making a buck. I also dream of one day having a stationary line, odd as it might sound. Stay tuned for that.

We are looking forward to seeing a stationary line by you! Do you have any advice for future artists that want to make a career out of their art?

I guess just to keep creating and to not to let your fears or insecurities hold you back. You never know who you might inspire.

How did you get involved with We Love Creativity?

This great guy named Brooks. I love how you guys bring artists together and are helping to create not only a network of artists but also a community of friends.

Well, thank you. Is there a story behind your Limited Edition Print, Protect the Ones You Love?

I think that love is the most important thing in this world. I guess this print is about protecting the people you love, always having their back, and always supporting and encouraging them through whatever they might be going through.

Is there anything else about you that you would like the world to know?

hmmm. I’m actually really shy…but I’m trying to get better! Oh…and I eat Swirlz (frozen yogurt) at least three times a week. Peanut Butter is my downfall. It’s bad.

For more info and artwork from Kelli Murray, please visit kellimurray.com. Make sure to check out Protect the Ones You Love, her Limited Edition Print that is for sale exclusively in our online store. There are only 50…get yours before they are gone!