We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elyn Kazarian. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elyn below.

Elyn, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I learned to do what I do through a combination of formal education, self-teaching, and practical experience. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Illustration/Fine Art Painting at ArtCenter College of Design in 2013, where my focus was primarily on painting. However, while still in school, I realized that I actually wanted to work in the music industry as a designer, which led me to teach myself graphic design. This journey involved countless hours of practice, exploration and play in regards to design, on top of spending even more time researching and reaching out to people/record labels/management companies and introducing myself and making them aware of my work.

If I could go back and change my own journey’s trajectory, I would have started integrating graphic design into my studies earlier. Enrolling in more design-focused courses and seeking mentorship from professionals in the field would have accelerated my learning process. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience through internships or collaborative projects with designers would have provided valuable insights and practical skills more quickly.

The most essential skills I developed include proficiency in design software (Adobe Creative Suite), a strong understanding of visual communication, and the ability to adapt and learn new tools and techniques rapidly. Equally important, if not more, were skills such as listening, creative problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and effective communication, which have been crucial in understanding the artists I’m working with, leading teams and managing projects.

One of the significant obstacles I faced was essentially teaching myself graphic design post-ArtCenter. Without a structured curriculum or immediate access to experienced mentors, I had to rely heavily on books, online resources, tutorials, and trial and error through working on projects. Balancing this self-directed learning with my professional responsibilities was challenging, but it ultimately made me more resourceful and resilient.

Overall, my journey to becoming a creative director and designer was marked by determination, a willingness to learn, saying yes to opportunities (even if I didn’t know what I was getting myself into), and the ability to overcome obstacles through self-initiative and continuous improvement.

Elyn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have loved art for as long as I can remember, and have been drawing since the age of 2, but it was during my time at ArtCenter College of Design that I truly discovered what path I wanted to take in my career, which was to work in the music industry. I used to obsess over album artwork as a kid, taking out the booklet in a jewel CD case, memorizing the lyrics to my favorite songs, while also being immersed in the imagery that was telling the visual side of the sonic stories. I realized the powerful impact of visual storytelling and its potential to shape the music industry, but didn’t quite know who actually was in charge of bringing those images to life. I was determined to figure it out, and have album artwork be the niche that got me working on projects at the earliest part of my career.

As a creative director in the music industry, my work primarily revolves around creating compelling artist campaigns. However, my role extends beyond that; I am deeply involved in all aspects of the creative process, including design, directing, and producing. From crafting visually striking album covers to conceptualizing and executing immersive music videos and promotional materials, I strive to bring each artist’s vision to life in a way that at the end of the day makes the artist happy while also resonating with their audience.

What sets me apart from others in this field is my ability to listen. I believe that truly understanding the artist’s perspective, their story, and their goals at that moment in time is crucial in creating authentic and impactful work. By actively listening and engaging in open dialogue, I ensure that every project reflects the unique essence of the artist, fostering genuine connections with their audience.

One of the things I am most proud of is being a mentor, including with She Is The Music and Femme It Forward. Outside of being able to work on exciting projects, what ultimately keeps me going is helping to empower the next generation of women, POC, and the LGBTQ+ community in creative fields such as my own. I want to be a support system and utilize my own network to help hire those who may get overlooked. I want their voices and talents to be recognized and appreciated. It is incredibly fulfilling and something I will continue to do for the rest of my career.

I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is driven by a deep passion for storytelling and a commitment to excellence. I am dedicated to pushing creative boundaries and delivering exceptional results. Through my work, I aim to inspire others to embrace their unique talents and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination no matter what obstacle they may have to overcome.

I believe that art has the power to transcend boundaries and connect people on a profound level. By staying true to my vision and continuously evolving, I hope to inspire others to follow their creative passions and make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely, there is a clear mission driving my creative journey: to provide opportunities for underrepresented voices and stories in the music and film industries. Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful and transformative art can be in shaping perceptions and fostering connections. My goal is to use my skills and platform to highlight and empower women, women of color, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community, particularly within the music and film.

This mission is reflected in various aspects of my work, including the monthly radio show I host, shesaid.so Radio on dublab, which is dedicated to interviewing women who work in the entertainment industry, and being part of the Executive Board for Women in Visuals, where we get to host events and panels, build community, and ultimately help more women meet each other and get hired for projects across music and film. By creating spaces and opportunities for these voices to be heard and recognized, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and representative creative landscape.

Through my work, I hope to encourage and uplift the next generation of artists, showing them that their stories matter and that they have the power to make a significant impact through their voice.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative director and designer is the ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional level. Art has the unique power to transcend barriers and communicate universal truths, emotions, and experiences. When I see my work resonate with someone, evoke a memory, or inspire them, it reaffirms the purpose of my creative journey.

One of the most fulfilling moments is witnessing the impact of my work on the artists I collaborate with and their audiences. Whether it’s a music video that brings a song to life or an album cover that encapsulates an artist’s vision, knowing that my creative contributions help to amplify their stories and connect them with their fans is incredibly gratifying.

Additionally, being able to advocate for and support underrepresented voices in the industry is immensely rewarding. I see the tangible difference that highlighting and celebrating diverse talents can make.

Regardless of the downs I’ve felt in my career, ultimately, the joy of creating, the challenge of pushing creative boundaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through my work are what make doing what I do worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://elynkazarian.com/
• Instagram: @elynkazarian
• Other: shesaid.so Radio https://www.dublab.com/shows/shesaid-so-laWomen in Visuals https://www.womeninvisuals.com/meet-our-team

Image Credits

Brianna Alysse, Ibra Ake, Tom Marshak, Jack McKain, Skylar Steinberg, Nikki Carmela