Debbie Millman has an ongoing project at PRINT titled “What Matters.” This is an effort to understand the interior life of artists, designers, and creative thinkers. This facet of the project is a request of each invited respondent to answer ten identical questions and submit a nonprofessional photograph.
Ellie Hansen is the Sydney MD & Global Chief Growth Officer at global drinks experts Denomination, bringing 27 years of experience to the agency. She began her career client-side within the design teams at Royal Mail and Visa International, later taking on leadership roles in the UK, Australia, and the US at Landor and Design Bridge. Additionally, she founded and ran her own agency, Ishimodo, for 12 years.
What is the thing you like doing most in the world?
Doing exercise with my family, and if it’s in an exquisite location – even better.
What is the first memory you have of being creative?
My sister will tell this story better, but at age six, I decided to create a large-scale collage made of differing coloured fabric. My sister remarked how amazing it was until her heart jumped out of her chest when she realised each carefully positioned piece had been cut out from every single dress in my mother’s cupboard. Was I creative? Yes. Was I popular? Not for a while.
What is your biggest regret?
While moving, living, and working in three countries, meeting new and interesting people, I feel I’ve missed out on spending long periods of time with my family – my father, my stepfather (both passed on), and now with my two sisters and my mother in the UK. I do see them for short intense periods, always filled with laughter, love, and a significant amount of piss-taking.
How have you gotten over heartbreak?
The two most formative heartbreaks in my life were when my parents divorced when I was 11, and when my father passed away when I was 28. I learned to create a shell to help me deal with any heartbreak or trauma, and to move on quickly – too quickly. In my more experienced years, I’ve realised the importance of going through the grieving process, whether for the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a job, or even a country, and accepting it before moving on.
What makes you cry?
Pure acts of kindness and generosity, as well as stories of survival under great adversity.
How long does the pride and joy of accomplishing something last for you?
My role is anchored in growth, so I always keep one eye on what’s next and the other firmly on today as I manage the creative response and team. The pride comes from starting the journey with new clients and helping them achieve their goals, and the joy comes from seeing the results. Then, it all starts over again.
Do you believe in an afterlife, and if so, what does that look like to you?
I grew up in Thailand with Danish/Greek and English parents and had Buddhist friends in my life until age nine. One significant piece of wisdom a friend shared with me was that Buddhists are generally happy in life because they start by accepting death, rather than fearing it throughout their lives – I’ve always loved this idea. We can’t live this life hoping the next one is better. Instead, we should make the most of every moment and fully appreciate the one life we’ve been privileged to have.
What do you hate most about yourself?
Hate is a strong word for anyone, especially in today’s political climate. I don’t even hate other people — and trust me, there have been quite a few who’ve treated me poorly. So, I absolutely don’t hate anything about myself, but are there areas for improvement? Ab-so-lutely.
What do you love most about yourself?
I’m not sure if “love” is the right word—perhaps “respect” is better. I respect my ability to adapt to various situations and people, especially given my experiences living and working in three countries and traveling through 26. I’ve learned to make friends quickly and build a happy, prosperous life.
What is your absolute favorite meal?
I’d say Thai food, but if I had to choose between eating Thai food alone and Italian food with others, I’d go with Italian.
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