Who and when was FreshWizdom created?
My bestfriend/business partner Adrian and I started FRSHWIZDM. In the late summer months of July/August 2007 was the inauguration of FRSHWiZDM's first season. The name and idea for the brand was already established in the past, but was not officially created and released until last summer.
What made you want to create FreshWizdom?
Well it's a long story, but I'll try to make it short and straight to the point. Growing up as a child I was an artist from birth. I always wanted to show my artwork to the world but not by using the traditional methods that most artist use. My artwork through my youth evolved into the graffiti scene and more of an street style art. Involved in the graffiti and B-Boy scene, I soon became known locally for my intricate illustrations, unique characters and loud pieces. Adrian and I met when were about 13-14 yrs old. We were both heavily involved in making art, music & break dancing. I was the graff artist/mc and he was the b-boy/producer. Later on in my last years of high school, somewere in 2001. I started to print custom shirts for friends and crews in school and slowly it became known that I was making t-shirts and got multiple request for random designs. Once I graduated I slowly stopped making shirts and getting caught up in old habits. Later, I became a little more focused and began to attend the local Art Institute out here in Miami, Fl. I studied visual effects and motion graphics for a couple of months to try to pursue a career in Animation. I slowly lost interest and dropped my classes. I really didn't want to become a slave to a corporation or any big company, and wanted to have my freedom in my art. I started to become interested in making clothes again and building a brand. I brought up the idea to Adrian and he thought it was a good idea, but we weren't financially ready so he quickly said it wouldn't work. Soon after I was arrested and jailed in late July of 2007. I was later released on house arrest and still am as we speak. I decided to make a change in my environment and my life as a whole. I choose to use my gift for a good purpose. So instead of making a line that revolves around negative and material objects or things of that sort. We decided to bring FRSHWiZDM to the table. We wanted to show people that you need to be wise in every decision that you make, from the smallest to the biggest. and incorporate that into concepts on clothing. Coming from our personal experience and troubles in my past due to the choices we've made. We wanted to start fresh, and bring a wise and positive state of mind on a daily basis. Negative experiences and trials in your life will make you wiser in the long run, to not make those decisions again. We stand strong on bringing fresh wisdom in our lives day by day and learning from every mistake we make. We soon started to bring the idea to life, and almost one year later, we're releasing our Summer 08′ Series II Collection.
Where do you get the inspiration from your designs?
Most of our inspiration comes from graffiti, art, music, fashion, b-boying, the bible, 80's culture, sneakers and other cultures we're involved in. Then merging those cultures with illustrations of knowledge and wisdom. Lots of the inspiration also comes from our personal experiences and trials in life. In our first season we used alot of illustrations that bring messages and concepts of wisdom. We also bring alot of words of wisdom form the book of Proverbs. But make sure not to come accross to preachy. We don't use any cut 'n' paste techniques and stay far from them. Every idea is freehanded before, and then brought to life. I'm a very intricate artist and I have to tone down my artwork at times and remember that now a days less is more.
What do you think contributed to the success of your first season?
I believe that our first line was successful for many reasons. First of all, in the begining we made alot of custom pieces and one of a kind special edition pieces. So alot of people can wear a piece that no one else has in that color combination and so forth. That brought alot of interest in the brand. Word of mouth was the biggest way for bringing the movement to life. We also had alot of support from friends, family, and just people who respected our movement. Advertising over the web, and the support of sites, blogs, forums, and definetly hypebeast. Being involved in local events like the DunkXchange and other events. But most importantly our faith in God.
What's the best thing that ever happened to the brand?
The best thing I can remember that has happen to the brand would most likely be the number of dedicated supporters that FRSHWiZDM really has. We really appreciate all the love and support that we recieve. Being involved and establishing relationships with other companies is also very important.
What's the worst thing that ever happened to the brand?
Well I would'nt say the worse, but some of the things that were maybe bad in a sense, was that we made some mistakes at first. Lets just say that we went through alot of trial and error to get to were we are today.
What direction are you trying to take the brand now?
Definetly staying original and unique in our style of clothing. We're really not trying to change our vision, Right now were focusing on creating more pieces that bring concepts and illustrations of wisdom and keeping that fresh state of mind. Continuing to bring our original designs to the industry. Definetly getting into some well known local skate shops and streetwear boutiques. Building a full FRSHWiZDM site soon. Finishing up and releasing the rest of Summer 08′ Series II Collection, and producing Fall/Winter 08′ But always staying focused on our main goal, and bringing fresh wisdom daily.
What does the future have instore for FreshWizdom?
First of all, staying true to us. But the future definetly holds alot for FRSHWiZDM. We are going to be focusing alot on bringing some womens apparel very soon. Maybe some kids also. More caps, wallets, belts, book bags and other accessories. Establishing some big accounts with well known skate/streetwear boutiques and sites. Collaborations with other brands. Going international with the brand. Being involved on other events outside of our area. Entering into Magic, Agenda and other trade shows. Most importantly staying focused and counting on the Lord. So please continue to support us and visit our store @ www.freshwizdom.bigcartel.com and check us out @ www.myspace.com/freshwizdom
Thanks to Chris & Freshwizdom
Check them out @ www.freshwizdom.bigcartel.com
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