We were lucky to catch up with Chris Scott recently and have shared our conversation below.
Chris, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
As life presents challenges, I’ve always been one to make it a point to keep in mind who I am, how I present myself, and the energy I give to others. With that sentiment, authenticity is of the utmost importance when I think of my purpose and whom I’m meant to be. At a time when I moved from NYC to SC, into a position where my competition became the people I served, I became the only source of information that allowed my counterparts to flourish in a commission based pay system. As resources were limited I found purpose in my ability to see the bigger picture, as well as my ability to see the results of what comes when I invest time into people, as ultimately I want the best not only for myself but for those around me as well. Some would say that’s natural born leadership, and I would have to agree. I owe it to my boss at the time, and good friend to this date Deanne Giles, as she labeled me with unconscious competency, as I didn’t intentionally look for the best in those around me, but it was instinctive, which somehow feels all the better.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m an artist to the core! I started out at a young age with an interest in graffiti. Thinking back to a time when I discovered the Graf-flix section in the back of The Source magazine. Every month I would purchase the new copy, skipping pass all the five-mic albums from my favorite Hip-Hop artist, and going directly to the Graffiti area. That path has led me to continue to evolve artistically into my latest passion and artistic brand, Dyes Effx. From what started as a hobby, has grown into a brand that I’m thrilled to share with the general public. Dyes Effx, represents a refreshing take on the timeless artform of Tie-Dye. It’s intentionally unique to the patron in the sense that each item is created to capture the essence of the individual client it’s created for. From what starts with an idea, moves into a consultation, where myself and the client discusses the vision they have for the intended piece(s), to the execution, which typically results in a one of one item of wearable art. And it doesn’t stop at clothing. The intent is to flourish into various forms of textiles, including bedding, luggage, and wallpaper to name a few. The journey thus far has been incredibly fulfilling as each item I create, evokes a reaction from within the clients that simply motivates me to keep going. The greatest joy is appreciation from the client and even more the admiration they receive when dropped in a Dyes Effx garment.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Thinking of just 3 qualities, I would lead off with style. Growing up in Brooklyn NY, the way you stepped on the scene made a statement even before you spoke. I’ve always taken pride in having a style that’s my own, and created the ability for me to stand out, and ultimately leave an impression no matter where I went. The next quality or skill is a natural ability to utilize color theory. Knowing how to create a cohesive pallete is the foundation of any artist, in my opinion. Understanding which colors to pair together or perhaps allow to stand alone, is what allows a work of art to resonate with a audience. As some colors evoke emotion externally, where as those whom admire can relate to it, it also can trigger a sensation from within, and in DFX cases, if you love what you’re wearing then you can feel a sense of superiority. As the cliche says, when you look good you feel good, and I’m aiming for my clients to feel immaculate when they put my Artwear on. Thirdly and last, is my passion! Without the will to win, I don’t think DFX would exist, as it’s not for everyone. Typically when you hear or think of tie-dye, there’s a stigma or a preconceived notion of what it may look like, however on the contrary, the feedback I receive, clearly sets me apart from the traditional results, and again, without the passion I have for my artistry, I don’t know where the brand would be.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
When I created Dyes Effx, it was thought of as an opportunity for me to connect with like-minded individuals. My theme as of late has been getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, and with that sentiment in mind, I wanted to intentionally step out of my introverted comfort zone. With that, I intend on utilizing my artistry and sense of style to collaborate with other artist and brand owners. Whether it’s a T-shirt company, a full on clothing brand, or canvas art, I want to connect with those individuals. So it’s with the upmost respect and admiration for others work, that I intend to collaborate and bring fresh ideas to their individual brands. Through social media, not only have I created one of one pieces for clients, but I’ve also curated limited edition drops with other brands. So far, I have had the opportunity to work with a few brands, namely Coach Nate of Brown Brothers Apparel, whom have been one of my biggest supporters in general as well as collaboration. On another note, most recently I was fortunate to collab with Jifunza Jah of Teaching One Self, a clothing brand driven to empower and highlight self-taught artistry, which we featured our brand during Columbia Fashion Week. A thrilling occurrence to say the least.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dyeseffx.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/dyeseffx
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/dyeseffx
