JACHUKU HOWARD

In this interview, we delve into the world of JACHUKU, who share his inspirations and unique perspectives.

Jachuku Howard

1. Introduce Yourself to the Casawi Community: What drives you? What's your artistic vision, and what sets you apart from the crowd?

My name is Jachuku Howard and I am a Maryland-born, Brooklyn-based Multi-hyphenate and Innovative Designer. I draw my influences from the past and the present to create a better future. My design language takes influences from 90’s Haute couture fashion as a vehicle to explore my love for Afro-Futurism, Geometry, Anime, and my day-to-day life. As a designer, I strive to elevate classic silhouettes by incorporating dynamic cuts and textures.

My goal is to challenge the norm and redefine what it means to be a designer. I enjoy using unconventional materials and experimenting with new technology to convey my message in a fun and authentic way. I attended Marymount University and Lorenzo De Medici in Florence, Italy where I studied pattern making, garment construction, and fashion illustration.

After returning from Europe, I appeared in Beyonce's "Black is King" Film and gained an audience that I leveraged into the launch of my brand, Bandit Studioz. Since then, Bandit has been featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, Highsnobiety, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Women's Wear Daily, and GUAP Magazine. While also getting the chance to collaborate with brands such as Converse, Hood By Air, Russell Athletics, Champion, and Triple 5 Soul.

2. City Inspirations: How has your city influenced your artistic path? Share how its streets, culture, and energy have molded your work.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have lived in a few cities that have helped mold me into the person I am today. Growing up in the DMV I was always a part of the creative scene. I loved this time of my life because it was so easy for me to be a true fan of artists in my community and it showed me what it means to build a community around art. I love that art is a collaborative effort. As a designer, I have the opportunity to invest in artists around me to help create my vision.

Being able to pour into people who pour into my work builds my confidence and helps me push myself. In 2019 I moved to New York which helped me take my raw talent and mold it as I mature as a man. The competitive nature of the city can be harsh at times but I also accept the challenge. I try to spend time learning from my peers and celebrating their success so that I can apply those notes to myself in the future. I was able to be exposed to a lot of different styles and creative directors that helped teach me how to communicate my vision effectively and tell a story. I am proud to be from the DMV and I am very grateful for what New York has given to me.

3. Creative Process: What fuels your creativity? Whether it's a ritual, a muse, or a moment of clarity, we're keen to learn.

My creative process changes often. Though it can be hard to find inspiration at times when I surrender to my thoughts and give myself the space to create, I often can get inspired by the simplest things. One of my biggest products to this day was inspired by a trip. I went to LA with a few friends and we started wearing bucket hats from a street vendor that inspired me to make hats out of leftover material I had. At the time I wasn't in love with the way the hats were coming out till I had an old lady gifted me fabric that inspired me to change the pattern and use the material she gifted me. All of these moments helped me develop a product that people love and have been seen on Dave East and Naomi Osaka. Moments like this help remind me to be open and let the universe help me design and participate in the moment.

4. City Lifestyle and Art: How the places you lived influenced your career and work?

New York is a great place to be an artist. It can be challenging because you are often forced to Deliver in high-pressure situations. It's often that your personal life has a direct effect on your craft. This can sometimes make it difficult to do your best. However, when you can get over the hump you can find opportunity and success that is not available in other places. It can be difficult today but if you have patience you can find a way to get where you want to be. This helps build a certain camaraderie with other creatives who are dedicating themselves to similar goals. I look forward to seeing what else the city has for me and I can't wait to give back to the city that is allowing me to chase my dreams.

5. Latest or Upcoming Projects: Give us a glimpse into your current endeavors and what lies ahead on your creative journey.

I have been working through my creative process and I am proud to say that I am currently working on my next collection. I look forward to having a pop-up with new pieces and visuals by the fall to promote the collection. I am also excited about producing an art show before the end of the year. This is something I have been excited about for a few years and I can't wait to celebrate the artists around me.