D.I.Y & Defiance

My work explores alternative fashion and community, emphasizing the way clothing serves as a statement of identity and belief. Fashion subcultures worldwide—whether punk, Harajuku street style, or other underground movements—have long used self-expression as a tool for defiance, rejecting overconsumption, capitalism, and unrealistic beauty standards. These communities thrive on DIY ethics and the power of self-made expression, which has been a driving force behind my work. However, in recent years, many of these styles have been co-opted by the very systems they once resisted, feeding directly into fast fashion and over consumption. What was once a form of rebellion now risks becoming just another product, stripped of its original intent.

Through my work, I aim to reclaim these ideals, illustrating individuals who are not just "fashion-forward" but also deeply engaged in their communities. Their wardrobes are a mix of secondhand and handmade pieces, proving that cultivating a unique aesthetic does not require participation in exploitative fashion cycles. I merge digital illustration with physical media, incorporating handcrafted elements to bring my characters' outfits to life. Highlighting the value of resourcefulness and craftsmanship, challenging the idea that personal style comes with a hefty price tag or an environmental cost.

Ultimately, I want my work to inspire action—whether that means learning a new creative skill, speaking out, or simply finding the confidence to dress without fear. There is immense power in self-expression, and it is something to be cultivated, protected, and passed forward. By embracing individuality with intention and awareness, we can resist the forces that seek to commodify identity and instead reclaim fashion as a means of true personal and cultural resistance.