Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Artist, illustrator, and designer Deja Brown joins the Cosmic Sans Podcast to discuss her creative journey, building a recognizable artistic style, and turning personal artwork into collaborations with brands like Nike, Adobe, Coach, Adidas, Converse, Olipop, and more.
We dive into the realities of freelancing, pricing creative work, networking, social media, finding your voice as an artist, and how Deja approaches creativity when inspiration runs dry. We also discuss representation in the design industry, the impact of AI on creative careers, and why protecting your creativity is more important than ever.
Whether you're a designer, illustrator, freelancer, or someone looking to build a creative career, this conversation is packed with practical advice and honest insights.
Follow Deja:
Instagram: @dejadoodlesart
Follow Cosmic Sans:
Instagram: @CosmicSansPod
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Meet Deja Brown
03:23 Was Design School Worth It?
06:08 Why Art Schools Need Business Classes
07:49 Knowing Your Worth as a Creative
09:15 How to Price Freelance Work
13:39 Why "Exposure" Isn't Payment
15:33 Working With Nike, Adobe & Major Brands
16:49 How Brand Collaborations Actually Happen
19:01 Maintaining a Unique Artistic Style
20:47 Setting Expectations With Clients
22:18 Inside Deja's Creative Process
24:18 Developing Her Signature Art Style
27:08 The Story Behind Her Roller Rink Artwork
28:38 Culture, Identity & Art
29:31 Being a Black Woman in Design
31:22 Diversity & Representation in Creative Spaces
36:08 Creativity, Burnout & Rest
38:24 Escaping Social Media Negativity
41:20 Pokémon, Creativity & Hobbies
45:46 Life Outside of Work
48:19 Doomscrolling & Protecting Your Attention
49:28 AI and the Future of Creativity
55:09 What's Next for Deja Brown?
56:16 Advice for Young Designers
56:57 Where to Find Deja
57:14 Outro
Artist, illustrator, and designer Deja Brown joins the Cosmic Sans Podcast to discuss her creative journey, building a recognizable artistic style, and turning personal artwork into collaborations with brands like Nike, Adobe, Coach, Adidas, Converse, Olipop, and more.
We dive into the realities of freelancing, pricing creative work, networking, social media, finding your voice as an artist, and how Deja approaches creativity when inspiration runs dry. We also discuss representation in the design industry, the impact of AI on creative careers, and why protecting your creativity is more important than ever.
Whether you're a designer, illustrator, freelancer, or someone looking to build a creative career, this conversation is packed with practical advice and honest insights.
Follow Deja:
Instagram: @dejadoodlesart
Follow Cosmic Sans:
Instagram: @CosmicSansPod
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Meet Deja Brown
03:23 Was Design School Worth It?
06:08 Why Art Schools Need Business Classes
07:49 Knowing Your Worth as a Creative
09:15 How to Price Freelance Work
13:39 Why "Exposure" Isn't Payment
15:33 Working With Nike, Adobe & Major Brands
16:49 How Brand Collaborations Actually Happen
19:01 Maintaining a Unique Artistic Style
20:47 Setting Expectations With Clients
22:18 Inside Deja's Creative Process
24:18 Developing Her Signature Art Style
27:08 The Story Behind Her Roller Rink Artwork
28:38 Culture, Identity & Art
29:31 Being a Black Woman in Design
31:22 Diversity & Representation in Creative Spaces
36:08 Creativity, Burnout & Rest
38:24 Escaping Social Media Negativity
41:20 Pokémon, Creativity & Hobbies
45:46 Life Outside of Work
48:19 Doomscrolling & Protecting Your Attention
49:28 AI and the Future of Creativity
55:09 What's Next for Deja Brown?
56:16 Advice for Young Designers
56:57 Where to Find Deja
57:14 Outro
