About the Collection
Stay Humble is the lettering with which I chose to debut my apparel line, and it also serves as the foundation of my brand as a core value.
Story
I've had opportunities to meet some of my idols - both in the basketball world as a hoops fan and in the lettering world as an up-and-coming letterer. Some of them lived up to every expectation - friendly, down to earth, and happy to share any knowledge and every tip and trick they've learned which led to their success. And some of those "role models" turned out to only care about themselves, turning away myself and others who have tried to model their careers, talents, and even lives after theirs.
After a number of such negative encounters, I made a life decision. I would never allow myself to forget that I, too, once started from square one. And furthermore, I would do my best to advise, mentor, and be present for others. I would do everything in my power to build people up - not tear them down. Humility will forever remain one of my life pillars.
Color Inspiration
In 2011, I went on a photography camping trip at Big Bend State Park in West Texas. It was just a few guys plus a park guide, camping in the middle of the desert, surrounded by beautiful canyons and absolutely nothing else. There was no light pollution for miles, and it was dark enough to see the Milky Way during the late night hours. As a photographer, I set out with the goal to shoot it - but I had no idea of the profound impact seeing the Milky Way with my own eyes would have.
At that moment, I was overcome with a feeling of insignificance - I'm a mere speck of a speck within this vast universe that I saw before me. I'll never forget the sight of it, and the stunning hues of teal, purple, orange, blue, green.
I decided to use teal and purple as the base colors for this first collection, that moment during the camping trip perfectly reflecting my sense of humility.
Theft
This artwork has since become widely stolen and used for commerce without my permission.