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From Architect to Artist: Ellie Compton on Trusting Your Creative Calling
In this episode of Golden Glimmers, I sit down with Christchurch-based artist and creative powerhouse Ellie Compton — founder of Maker of Chaos — whose bold lines and large-scale works are as captivating as her career journey.
Ellie originally studied architecture, but over time realised that her true passion lived in the world of visual art — outside the traditional lines. She made the brave leap into full-time artistry and hasn’t looked back. Her signature monochrome style can now be found across walls, surfboards, sculptures, prints, and even hotel rooms.
We talk about:
Her transition from the structured world of architecture into the fluid, expressive world of art
Learning to back herself creatively and professionally
The story behind her work at the QT Hotel in Wellington, where she was one of 25 artists chosen to transform an entire hotel room into an art installation
Collaborating with brands like Ballantynes and Dark Hampton
The power of saying yes to opportunity (and the importance of asking for what you want)
Building a creative business in New Zealand, staying true to your identity, and embracing community over competition
What stood out most about this kōrero was Ellie’s quiet confidence and honest reflection on the journey — the setbacks, the wins, and the process of becoming who she is today, both as an artist and a businesswoman.
Whether you’re a creative yourself, navigating a pivot, or just love hearing stories of people trusting their gut and carving their own path — this episode is for you.
About Ellie:
Ellie is the founder of Maker of Chaos, a brand and visual identity that celebrates her love of line-based art, storytelling, and exploring space in bold and expressive ways. She’s known for her black-and-white palette, intricate yet fluid linework, and the ability to make everyday surfaces feel magical.
Her work has featured on large-scale murals, high-end fashion collaborations, and public installations — but it all started with the simple decision to show up for her own creativity.
Follow Ellie Compton:
Instagram: @elliecompton__
Follow Golden Glimmers:
Instagram: @goldenglimmerspodcast
Watch on YouTube, listen on Spotify, Plains FM & all major platforms.
If you loved this episode:
Please leave a review, share it with a friend, and let us know your biggest takeaway!
#GoldenGlimmers #EllieCompton #MakerOfChaos #WomenInArt #CreativeBusiness #CareerPivot #ChristchurchArtist #NZArtists #IndependentPodcast #ArtAndDesign #ArchitectureToArt #BoldMoves #TrustTheProcess
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By Golden GlimmersIn this episode of Golden Glimmers, I sit down with Christchurch-based artist and creative powerhouse Ellie Compton — founder of Maker of Chaos — whose bold lines and large-scale works are as captivating as her career journey.
Ellie originally studied architecture, but over time realised that her true passion lived in the world of visual art — outside the traditional lines. She made the brave leap into full-time artistry and hasn’t looked back. Her signature monochrome style can now be found across walls, surfboards, sculptures, prints, and even hotel rooms.
We talk about:
Her transition from the structured world of architecture into the fluid, expressive world of art
Learning to back herself creatively and professionally
The story behind her work at the QT Hotel in Wellington, where she was one of 25 artists chosen to transform an entire hotel room into an art installation
Collaborating with brands like Ballantynes and Dark Hampton
The power of saying yes to opportunity (and the importance of asking for what you want)
Building a creative business in New Zealand, staying true to your identity, and embracing community over competition
What stood out most about this kōrero was Ellie’s quiet confidence and honest reflection on the journey — the setbacks, the wins, and the process of becoming who she is today, both as an artist and a businesswoman.
Whether you’re a creative yourself, navigating a pivot, or just love hearing stories of people trusting their gut and carving their own path — this episode is for you.
About Ellie:
Ellie is the founder of Maker of Chaos, a brand and visual identity that celebrates her love of line-based art, storytelling, and exploring space in bold and expressive ways. She’s known for her black-and-white palette, intricate yet fluid linework, and the ability to make everyday surfaces feel magical.
Her work has featured on large-scale murals, high-end fashion collaborations, and public installations — but it all started with the simple decision to show up for her own creativity.
Follow Ellie Compton:
Instagram: @elliecompton__
Follow Golden Glimmers:
Instagram: @goldenglimmerspodcast
Watch on YouTube, listen on Spotify, Plains FM & all major platforms.
If you loved this episode:
Please leave a review, share it with a friend, and let us know your biggest takeaway!
#GoldenGlimmers #EllieCompton #MakerOfChaos #WomenInArt #CreativeBusiness #CareerPivot #ChristchurchArtist #NZArtists #IndependentPodcast #ArtAndDesign #ArchitectureToArt #BoldMoves #TrustTheProcess