Meet Erin Beck | Artist and Merchandise Designer

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

Hi Erin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always admired seeing other people working hard to make their art a business, but I didn’t think I was up to snuff. With Imposter’s Syndrome rearing its ugly head, I tried hard to find a day job I cared about. Call centers, vet clinics, warehouse jobs. Nothing stuck.

Along came the pandemic. In July 2020, I caught COVID19 despite doing everything right. Ever since, I’ve never been the same. You see, I picked up a souvenir called Covid Longhaul, a post viral condition that doctors think is caused by a virus tearing apart the body as it leaves the system. My heart races even when sitting still, I never feel like I have enough air or rest, and I forget simple things like how to use a computer or drive a car at times. My whole world is spinning, literally and figuratively. I was too sick to work anymore.

I’m 27. This shouldn’t be happening. I fell into a depression because I felt like I had no control of my mind or body anymore. Deep in this dark hole, I did the only thing I could do. Draw.

Through drawing, I started looking at my situation much differently. I am alive. Many people who battled the virus can’t say the same. I may not be able to work for another employer due to hours and physical/mental challenges. What if I took the leap and finally worked for myself? I’m the only one who truly understands the accommodations I need.

I could no longer afford for self doubt to rule me. I survived a life threatening disease. Next to that, the mean little voice in my brain means nothing.

Because of the hand I was dealt, I realized I can either feel sorry for myself, or make people happy with art and merchandise I create. I also want to show people that disabilities shouldn’t keep you from creating what you love or going after your goals! Things happen for a reason, so make it work for you!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I draw dogs. People like dogs. No, there’s probably more to it than that! A big part of my brand is making sure people feel happy about their whole selves. I was bullied a lot as a kid for my interests, so I grew up making sure no one feels unwelcome.

I also grew up with less than stellar graphic tees! A lot of nerdy merchandise back then was just one of the first images you could find on Google for a series or game that was slapped on a black shirt. I want people to show off what they love but also feel fashionable! Thus, I’m excited to design more shirts and bags in the future!
I create a lot of pride designs as well. As a member of the LGBTQA+ community, I’ve noticed a lot of pride merchandise can be very corporate and basic looking. I want people to feel valid and fashionable at the same time!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I actually have a bit of experience with this- almost my entire family is from out of state, so I’ve collected several places to go over the years! For food, I always take visitors to Joe’s Farm Grill. It’s family owned and locally grown, so everything is very fresh! If they’re looking for spectacle, I take them to Organ Stop Pizza. The ice cream is great, but we all know the real star is that huge building sized organ. If we happen to be in Phoenix, I take them to Ziggy’s Pizza. It’s very flashy and lively, but the pizza is also stellar!
Entertainment depends on the person, of course. The Phoenix Zoo is gorgeous, Odysea is great for hot days, and the Arizona Science Center is always changing their exhibits. There are also less touristy places like Starfighter’s Arcade in Mesa, which has arcade and pinball machines that are part of various people’s personal collections. I’m also a big fan of escape rooms, and we have several great ones around the valley!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My fiancé and partner of 7 years has helped me more than I can put into words. He pushes me to do better, and makes sure I don’t listen to my own doubts. He was the one who first encouraged me to take the leap into doing art and merchandise design full time! He also makes sure I’m taking care of myself and my health. Without him, I don’t think I would’ve accomplished as much as I have with my business. Heck, my business may not even exist!

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