Since I was a kid, I have always loved creating things. Over the years, that has taken different forms – art, woodworking, computer programming, graphic design, etc. You name it, I’ve probably tried to do it (just imagine being married to me!). But art has been one fairly consistent thing I’ve enjoyed since as early as I can remember. In high school, I became very interested in the classic graffiti styles of the 70’s and 80’s (specific, right?).
That interest carried forward pretty intensely throughout college, and I scribbled or painted on anything I could get my hands on –
notepads, study notes, math tests, walls…it didn’t matter. I printed and laminated home made stickers, painted skate decks and designed tattoos for friends. I love bold colors and typography, and getting into graffiti inspired an interest in creating bold iconography – simple images that can stand alone and create instant recognizability.
Around this time, my dad encouraged me to try to paint a palmetto tree. I wasn’t super interested at the time, but I did one for fun. Turns out, it was a great idea. I threw up a picture on Facebook, and it really took off. For the remainder of college, I painted palmetto trees for people. I painted palmetto trees on walls, on plywood boards, canvases and designed several palmetto tree prints. It was awesome.
If you’re someone who purchased my work in those early years, I want to give you my sincere thanks. All of the money I made during that time went towards purchasing an engagement ring for my wife as I neared the end of college. Ten years later, we have 3 kids and a lot less free time than we did back then. We’ve been through a lot in the past years – great joys and deep sorrows. I have tried to revive the artwork a few times over the years, but the constraints of a career and family haven’t afforded the time to focus on it.
But, alas…I’m back once again to scratch that creative itch, this time with a band of rugrats in tow. It’s our hope that we can bring awesome looking gear that makes you proud of your region. The Carolina’s have always been home to us – we are both from SC, and met shag dancing at a local spot in Columbia. We truly love our home state, and the many memories we made when living in and exploring NC. There is a beauty and mystery of the SC lowcountry, a glory and crispness to the Western NC mountains, and a comfort to the Carolina’s, no matter where you are.
For all these things past and present, we give thanks. Soli Deo Gloria!
