Back in 1987, artist, entrepreneur and design visionary Eli Levite had an idea to create a line of bohemian tunics resplendent in artisan-inspired embroidery and global inspirations. That was how Johnny Was began, and looking back, Eli is now seen as someone who had his finger (and paintbrush) on the pulse of a women’s desire to infuse her style with elegance, color and whimsy. What Eli started in his Los Angeles-based studio has now come to encompass everything from one-of-a-kind kimonos to Italian-made leather accessories.

While it takes a team of talented designers to create our collections each month, Eli is still a constant inspiration, especially with many of his painted artworks inspiring our signature prints. We sat down with Eli in his colorful office to get some insight into his creative process.

JW: You are constantly creating; how do you keep inspired?

Eli: I find inspiration everywhere; everyday life is an inspiration to me from the street art around Los Angeles to the flowers in my garden to traveling. I have a studio at my house and it’s where I like to retreat and paint as well as where I feel peace and ultimate happiness. It’s like my version of a natural high.

JW: How did you get started?

Eli: I grew up in Israel with a very loving family, we’re all creative but I’m totally self-taught. In school I was always doodling in the margins of my workbooks and even nowadays I always have a notebook with me. I’m always drawing, whether I’m talking on the phone, in a meeting or just being quiet.

JW: Tell us about the canvases that have become the designs on our new aprons?

Eli: I’m constantly seeing images and designs in my head. I like to paint on canvases, using a mix of acrylic, oil, charcoal and ink. I’ll start with an idea and then just build upon it. Nothing is ever symmetrical and I prefer abstract artwork, like Jean Michel Basquiat, who I would say is a huge inspiration for me. I often do my art in black and white, which works especially well for our embroidery pieces, and then the color is added later.

JW: Do you sell your pieces?

Eli: No, not yet, people always tell me I should but I like to donate them for charity, give them to friends or put them up in our Johnny Was stores. My grandson is also a really talented artist so it would be fun to collaborate with him. I would also love to create a collection of rugs too, all wool with my designs.

To see the Eli apron up close, head over there.