What does it take to evolve as an artist without losing yourself in the process?

In this episode of Bench Talk, Tom Gerrard sits down with Sydney-based artist Elliott Rutledge for a raw, honest conversation about artistic evolution, breaking into the gallery world, and the courage it takes to keep experimenting when you're not sure if anyone will buy the work.

Elliott is a true creative polymath - working across abstract paintings, text-based works, murals, sculptures and more. But his path hasn't been linear. He went from street art to gallery representation, navigated imposter syndrome along the way and learned to trust his instincts even when commercial viability wasn't guaranteed.

In this conversation, Tom and Elliott explore:

⚡️Why Elliott doesn't call himself a "street artist" anymore:
⚡️How to navigate imposter syndrome when transitioning into the gallery world
⚡️The evolution of Elliott's condensed, elongated text-based works
⚡️Why he kept certain bodies of work "on the back burner" for years before showing them
⚡️How one interior designer's enthusiasm gave him the confidence to finally exhibit his text pieces
⚡️The importance of creating work you love, even if you don't think it will sell
⚡️Working across multiple mediums and styles without feeling scattered
⚡️How mentors shaped Elliott's gallery career
⚡️Being featured in the Australian Abstract art book
⚡️Balancing fatherhood, studio time, and a relentless creative drive

This is a interview is all about artistic integrity, creative courage and the long game of building a sustainable art career without compromising who you are.

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HOST: Tom Gerrard

✦ IG | @artcareeracademy and @tom-gerrard
✦ Watch on Youtube | / @artcareeracademy
✦ Website | artcareeracademy.com and tom-gerrard.com

GUEST: Elliott Routledge

✦ Instagram | @funskull
✦ Website | https://www.elliottroutledge.com/

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