Edila Stace-Smith

Blank Tela Studio founded by Edila Stace-Smith in 2020, was inspired by a desire to do things differently and a craving for the freedom that comes with working for yourself, from anywhere in the world. Tela, which translates as ‘canvas’ in Italian and forms part of the studio name – Blank Tela – is a reference to the idea that all design starts with a clean slate and fresh ideas. The studio’s portfolio is packed full of projects which reflect a timeless, beautifully crafted simplicity and a strategic understanding of branding.

Understanding that community is key when building a successful business as a solo-entrepreneur, Edila embodies the values of accessibility, collaboration and authenticity in her studio ethos. She strongly believes in the power of mentorship and empowering others which has been a crucial part of her journey. Creating spaces where people can connect and lift each other up and share different perspectives is fully embraced as part of studio life.

We talked with Edila to find out more about her experiences founding and running a successful creative studio, and advice for anyone who wants to do the same.

What were your first steps into the creative industry and what shaped you as a designer during your early career?

My journey into the creative industry was definitely sparked by my love for fashion – which I studied at school.

Funny enough though, I ended up spending twelve years in hospitality, where I discovered the artistry of food, beverage and restaurant aesthetics/design.

This combined background of fashion and hospitality shaped my desire and understanding of design – and ultimately still influences my design style today.

What made you take the leap and found your own creative studio Blank Tela in 2020 and what is the overall ethos of the studio?

I remember the exact day when I decided I was going to start my own business. I was on my way back home from Thailand – feeling deeply uninspired with my 9-5 and ultimately dreading the thought of going back to it.

From that day for the next six months I dove headfirst into self-education, immersing myself in design and business knowledge and Blank Tela Studio was officially born.

The studio’s guiding ethos 100% centres around community. Fostering connections both digitally and in-person to create a space where people feel that they belong, where they can just be, is very important to me.

“The studio’s guiding ethos 100% centres around community. Fostering connections both digitally and in-person to create a space where people feel that they belong, where they can just be, is very important to me.”

Where does the name Blank Tela come from?

So, initially I considered naming the studio “Blank Canvas Studio” because I love the concept of a blank canvas. No matter the type of design you’re creating, it always starts with a clean slate, a blank canvas of sorts. But I soon found that this was quite a commonly used name.

In the end, I decided to add a twist to the name “Blank Canvas Studio” and turn to the Italian word “Tela”, which means “canvas”.

Thus, the creation of Blank Tela Studio.

Can you tell us about your experiences of initially founding your own creative studio, how you found clients and what challenges you faced?

Starting my studio was a mixture of excitement and nerves. It really was uncharted territory for me, so I very much had a “let’s try everything and see what sticks” mentality in the beginning.

My first client came from a friend of my sisters, and as much as I’d love to say it was easy from there on out, that wasn’t the case. It wasn’t until I started truly understanding the power of storytelling and strategic marketing/selling that finding clients became much more consistent.

The creative space is also packed with a lot of amazing talent, which was overwhelming at first. I definitely struggled with comparison in the beginning. Of my expertise, business knowledge, design style, all the things. To counter all of this though, I ended up bringing on a mentor who helped me stay focused and provided me with the tools needed to quiet the noise, focus and build my business on my own terms.

“It really was uncharted territory for me, so I very much had a “let’s try everything and see what sticks” mentality in the beginning.”

How has Blank Tela evolved to where you are now and have there been any pivotal moments that stand out for you?

Oh gosh – it’s evolved so much since the beginning! Some of the most pivotal moments that have transpired over the years are…

In winter 2022, I sold everything I owned (except for my laptop and clothes), bought a one way ticket from Canada to Mexico, and have been travelling and working remotely ever since.

15+ countries and counting with Romania, Bulgaria, Egypt, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa up next! My dream/plan is to lay roots down in Europe next year.

In Spring 2022 I created Arte Archive, an inclusive editorial stock imagery offering that combats the diversity gap in the modern stock space. This offering is very near and dear to my heart, so I feel incredibly proud of this.

In Spring 2023, I launched my mentorship program, The Expansion Sessions. Since mentorship has played such a huge role in my own journey, this was something I felt very called to do. To be able to support other entrepreneurs in their journey is such a privilege.

In Summer 2023 I brought to life ‘The Ceremony’. A global dinner series that came to be from a longing for IRL connections among entrepreneurs. A space where people can come together, connect, hear new perspectives and just BE together. My plan is to take this dinner series global so it can move with me along my travels. The first dinner was pure magic!

“In winter 2022, I sold everything I owned (except for my laptop and clothes), bought a one way ticket from Canada to Mexico, and have been travelling and working remotely ever since.”

What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced during your career as women and how have you overcome them?

I consider myself quite fortunate in my design career journey, as I’ve been surrounded by such an amazing support system. Building a community of incredible women was something that was a priority from the start.

I know that this isn’t the reality for everyone, and for that reason, I truly appreciate the positive experience I’ve had. It’s a reminder of how crucial it is to prioritise community building and to also be a part of fostering a supportive environment for others.

What does your current workday look like – how much time is spent on the business side and how much on creative direction and managing your team?

Firstly, I don’t know where I would be without my morning routine (it truly is my guiding light to a productive day). I’ve followed the same routine for 2 years as it always provides me with such clarity and inspiration for the rest of my day.

After my morning routine I typically start work around 8am or 9am, and from there it varies based on what’s currently on my to-do list. Usually I start my workday with an email and social media check in. I’m all about engaging in the DMs and replying to comments/emails when my energy is high.

Next up I make sure to respond to any messages and voice notes from my mentees and check in with my own mentor as well. Then, depending on what type of projects I have going on, I’ll jump over to Slack and Trello to coordinate with my team and respond to any design client notifications.

And lastly, at the end of the day, I dedicate time to work on the studio. Whether that be content creation, new offers, updating processes etc – whatever is most pressing. So, it really is a blend of behind the scenes work and creative/client work. Each day brings its own mix, and that’s what keeps things exciting and dynamic.

What do you think are the most important qualities for running and leading a successful creative studio?

A successful creative business hinges on several key qualities, but the two that I feel are the most crucial are grit and discipline. In the unpredictable journey of entrepreneurship, you’ll inevitably encounter roadblocks and unexpected challenges – so in these moments these two traits become non-negotiables for success.As a successful studio owner, do you have any thoughts on how we can counteract the gender imbalance and lack of diversity in the creative industry?

Firstly, for those of us who’ve found our footing as entrepreneurs, I feel it’s our responsibility to use our platforms and businesses to keep the conversation around representation active. To use them to celebrate, uplift and shine a light on these underrepresented groups. And not just when it’s popular to do so.Additionally, providing support and guidance to aspiring creatives on their journey through entrepreneurship is paramount. I know first-hand how impactful this was for me when starting my own journey and how important it continues to be.

“A successful creative business hinges on several key qualities, but the two that I feel are the most crucial are grit and discipline.”

What advice would you give to women and gender expansive creatives who aspire to found and run their own creative studio?

Just start – the rest will follow (I literally have “just start” tattooed on my arm). Starting is arguably the most difficult part (followed by discipline) but once you’ve done that, the hardest part is behind you.

Also, remember that you’ll never have all the answers. But you will learn some of them along the way.