Fashion Designer and Filmmaker Eli Russell Linnetz Signs with PRETTYBIRD

Academy Award-nominated/Emmy-winning creative studio Ventureland and its sister commercial and music video production company, PRETTYBIRD, as announced a new creative partnership with visionary artist, designer, and director Eli Russell Linnetz. Known for his genre-defying work across fashion, photography, directing, film, and stage design, Eli brings his singular creative vision to Ventureland and PRETTYBIRD, where he has been tapped to join the company’s exclusive roster for commercial and music video representation.

The collaboration marks a dynamic new chapter for all parties and will encompass a range of linear and immersive projects, with details to be announced. As forces at the forefront of cultural innovation, Ventureland, PRETTYBIRD, and Eli are redefining the intersection of storytelling and artistry in innovative and inspiring ways.

Born and raised in Venice Beach, California, Eli has built a reputation as one of his generation's most innovative multidisciplinary artists. As a graduate from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, Eli is a frequent collaborator with global brands, including Apple, Adidas, LVMH, Gucci, Dior, Comme des Garçons, Tesla, SpaceX, Disney, Nike, 1X, and Nvidia. He has photographed high-profile magazine covers for the likes of Vogue Italia, Interview Magazine, and GQ, and has designed entire stage productions for music’s biggest names, including Lady Gaga’s Las Vegas residency ‘Enigma’, Justin Bieber’s ‘Justice’ tour, and Kanye West’s ‘Saint Pablo’ tour.

A true multi-hyphenate in every sense of the word, Eli recently launched his fashion brand ERL to international acclaim, earning him awards such as GQ’s Breakthrough Designer of the Year and the LVMH Karl Lagerfeld Prize. Eli’s fashion designs have been shown twice at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, where the pieces remain as part of the Met’s permanent collection. In 2023, Eli was named Dior’s first guest designer, as well as serving as creative director and host for the 104th edition of Pitti Uomo in Florence, Italy.

In 2024, Eli took over the art world with his ‘Monuments’ exhibition at Jeffrey Deitch Gallery in Los Angeles, where he crafted surreal re-interpretations of American monuments and symbolism. He continues to explore reinterpretations of the American experience through his sculptures, fashion, and filmmaking. He is currently in pre-production for his first feature film, which will begin shooting this year.

Kerstin Emhoff, CEO, Ventureland/PRETTYBIRD said, "We’ve known Eli for many years and have watched him grow into a truly multi-hyphenated creator. He embodies the kind of artist both of our companies were built to support - someone with a wide range of talents and ambitions. We’re excited to help bring his endeavours to life, collaborating with the best partners across finance, distribution, music, and brand development.

Eli adds, “Every medium is an opportunity for breakthrough storytelling, and I am beyond excited to work with Kerstin and the teams at PRETTYBIRD and Ventureland to explore new horizons together.”