Meet Cailin Ellis | Muralist, Digital Marketer & CRM Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cailin Ellis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cailin, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up, creativity was an integral part of my life. Every Sunday morning, my dad would bring out a box of craft supplies, giving my mom a chance to sleep in, and we would work on projects for my grandparents. This tradition sparked my passion for creativity, leading to countless room painting adventures and a deep exploration of artistic expression throughout my education.

My parents were incredibly supportive, encouraging me to try new styles and make time for art as an outlet. High school further cemented my love for creativity, thanks to my inspiring art teacher, Mr. Haft, who continually pushed me to explore and grow. My grandfathers also played a significant role—one was a diesel mechanic who creatively solved problems around the barn, and the other reupholstered furniture, showcasing their unique artistic skills.

Over time, painting has evolved into a significant part of my life. I paint murals as part of my career, which allows me a creative release and the opportunity to bring large-scale visions to life. Additionally, my career in marketing enables me to build brands and strategize, effectively balancing and flexing both the creative and strategic parts of my brain.

I literally can’t imagine a job or life where I don’t have the freedom to be creative, make mistakes, or try new things. Early in my career, I was given significant room and freedom to design my roles and evolve within them. The more space and freedom I’ve been given, the better my output. Creativity is not just a part of my career; it’s a fundamental aspect of who I am.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career uniquely blends local government, sustainability initiatives, and artistic expression. What sets me apart is my ability to merge these fields to create impactful public spaces and foster community engagement through murals and marketing.

I began as an interior designer, where I led initiatives for over 250 buildings in Indianapolis. These projects significantly reduced carbon emissions and minimized waste, contributing to my clients’ ESG reporting. While also creating beautiful spaces. This work established me as an advocate for sustainable practices within the design community, and led me to travel to gather more insight and inspiration from around the country.

Transitioning into marketing, I’ve worked as a Marketing Consultant and a Muralist. In these roles, I’ve honed my ability to tell compelling stories that resonate on social media, enhance brand presence, and foster community connections. My work with organizations like Treetop Child Advocacy Center and Cailin and Co. exemplifies my commitment to leveraging digital marketing and CRM strategies to support crucial social causes and enhance public service campaigns.

At Cailin and Co. Murals, my artistry in mural creation has allowed me to transform spaces into immersive experiences, where art becomes a powerful medium for community engagement and a catalyst for positive change. Each mural I create is a testament to my belief in the transformative power of art, marrying abstract beauty with environmental narratives.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way include the importance of perseverance, the value of community, and the power of creativity. Challenges are opportunities in disguise, and with the right mindset, they can lead to incredible growth.

My career story is about blending creativity and sustainability to create beautiful, impactful, and environmentally conscious projects. Whether through marketing strategies or mural art, my goal is to inspire positive change and engage communities in meaningful ways.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In my view, the most fun and exciting aspects of living here are the combination of vibrant local culture, incredible outdoor activities, and the amazing people who make every visit memorable. My favorite people, like Joe Phillips, Meri, and Park, always make these experiences even more enjoyable.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Morning: Start the day with a relaxing coffee at The Crown coffee shop, enjoying the cozy atmosphere and delicious pastries.
Afternoon: Head over to River Walk Center for a leisurely stroll and catch any live music or shows happening.
Evening: Finish the day with a delightful dinner at RootStalk, known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure and Local Eats

Morning: Kick off the day with a delicious breakfast burrito from Bold or Blue River Bistro to fuel up for the day’s activities.
Afternoon: Depending on the season, spend the day skiing at Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) in the winter or mountain biking on the trails right outside my back door during the summer.
Evening: Enjoy some tasty chicken tenders from Burke and Reilly’s. Afterwards, relax and unwind with drinks and fun at Broken Compass for a round of trivia.

Day 3: Hiking, Views, and Farewell

Morning: Start with a scrumptious brunch sandwich and coffee from Semplice Cafe.
Afternoon: Take a hike on one of the local trails, soaking in the natural beauty and fresh air. A visit to Sapphire Point for its stunning views is a must.
Evening: Enjoy a final dinner at Radicatto, where the menu is both inventive and satisfying. Celebrate a fantastic visit with great food and company!!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, my parents deserve immense credit. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been the bedrock of my creative pursuits. My dad, in particular, sparked my early interest in art with our Sunday morning craft sessions. My mom’s encouragement and belief in my abilities have always pushed me to explore new creative horizons.

I also want to recognize my high school art teacher, Mr. Halft. His dedication to nurturing my artistic talent and pushing me beyond my comfort zone played a crucial role in my development as an artist. He taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of experimenting with new techniques.

My grandfathers also deserve a shoutout for their unique influences. One was a mechanic who showed me the creativity in problem-solving, and the other was a DIY enthusiast who reupholstered furniture and painted his home, demonstrating how creativity can be applied in everyday life.

In the marketing industry, my cousins Jenna and Avery have been instrumental. Both are deeply embedded in this space and have given me so much room to share, talk, and build new skills. Their support and resources have been invaluable, helping me grow professionally and personally.

In addition to the individuals, I’d like to acknowledge the broader creative community I’ve been part of. The camaraderie and shared passion have been incredibly inspiring and motivating.

All these influences combined have shaped who I am today, and I’m deeply grateful for each of them.

Website: https://www.cailinandco.com/

Instagram: @cailinmarieellis or @cailinandco.murals

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cailin-ellis-7261b3a7/

Image Credits
WHITNEY RETTER PHOTOGRAPHY
https://whitneyretter.com/contact