Ruby Elliot, also known by her pseudonym rubyetc, was born on August 12, 1993, in London, England. Growing up in the bustling city, she discovered her passion for drawing at a young age. However, it wasn't until she was 17 years old that she truly began to invest in her artistic talents.
After dropping out of school to address her mental health issues, Ruby found solace in expressing herself through her artwork. Drawing became a form of therapy for her, allowing her to navigate the complexities of her emotions and experiences in a creative and cathartic way.
Despite the challenges she faced, Ruby's determination and resilience propelled her towards a career in art. In 2015, she officially started freelancing as an illustrator, seizing every opportunity to share her unique perspective with the world.
Under the pseudonym rubyetc, Ruby began to gain recognition for her raw and insightful portrayal of mental illness. Her illustrations struck a chord with audiences, blending humor and vulnerability to shed light on the often stigmatized topic of mental health.
Her work caught the attention of prominent publications such as The New Yorker, Huffington Post, and BuzzFeed, further solidifying her reputation as a talented artist. In addition, her Instagram account, rubyetc_, became a platform for her to showcase her art to a growing audience, amassing over 260,000 followers.
In 2017, Ruby achieved a significant milestone with the publication of her debut book, "It's All Absolutely Fine." The book delves deeper into her experiences with mental health, offering a poignant and honest reflection on the challenges she has faced.
Despite her success, Ruby remains grounded in her roots, drawing inspiration from her personal journey and the people around her. Her commitment to authenticity and vulnerability is evident in every piece of art she creates, resonating with individuals who find solace in her work.
While Ruby's art is deeply personal, it is also a reflection of the world around her. Drawing from her experiences in London, she infuses her illustrations with a sense of place and belonging, capturing the essence of urban life with a touch of whimsy.
Throughout her career, Ruby has drawn inspiration from fellow artists, including David Firth, who share her focus on mental illness. Their shared commitment to addressing mental health through art has created a supportive community that continues to thrive and grow.