We recently connected with Charles Thomas and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Charles thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of our favorite things to brainstorm about with friends who’ve built something entrepreneurial is what they would do differently if they were to start over today. Surely, there are things you’ve learned that would allow you to do it over faster, more efficiently. We’d love to hear how you would go about setting things up if you were starting over today, knowing everything that you already know.

If I could start over, the first thing I’d change is embracing collaboration earlier. For a long time, I thought I had to prove myself by doing everything solo—photography, creative concepts, building relationships. But looking back, I realize how much stronger ideas and opportunities come when you let others bring their energy and perspective to the table.

I’d also get comfortable with saying “no” sooner. There were times when I took on projects that didn’t align with my vision, just for the sake of experience. It taught me a lot, but I could’ve used that time to refine my own craft instead of chasing external validation. A big part of this has been learning to trust my own eye. Early on, I second-guessed my creative instincts, trying to match what I thought others wanted to see. But the truth is, your unique perspective is what sets you apart. If I could do it over, I’d lean into my instincts and trust my creative decisions from the start.

Finally, I’d invest in the right tools and education upfront, even if it felt like a big leap. Whether it’s equipment or learning from people already doing what I wanted to do, those investments would’ve accelerated my growth and saved me from some hard lessons.

Starting over, I’d move faster by leaning into relationships, focusing on what really fuels my creativity, and trusting myself more from the start.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Charles Andre Thomas, a multi-disciplinary artist, creative director, and storyteller based in Chicago. My journey into the creative industry began on the West Side of the city, where I fell in love with art as a kid. I started with freehand drawing and painting, which eventually grew into photography, graphic design, 3D modeling, and ad marketing. Along the way, I also developed skills in carpentry, sculpture building, and interior design, even building out my entire studio space from scratch.

Today, my work spans a variety of creative disciplines, but at its core, it’s all about storytelling. I bring ideas to life by creating visuals and narratives that connect emotionally with audiences. Whether I’m shooting an editorial campaign, developing ad concepts, crafting 3D characters like Verena and Versa, or even designing physical spaces, my goal is to make something that resonates and leaves a lasting impression.

The best brand I’ve worked with so far has been Mike’s Hard Lemonade. Collaborating with them allowed me to combine my creative vision with strategic marketing, creating campaigns that felt bold and impactful. What I love most about working with brands is finding the intersection of artistry and purpose—taking their vision and elevating it into something that truly stands out.

What sets me apart is my ability to merge technical expertise with artistic instincts. My work isn’t just about creating something that looks good; it’s about creating something that has meaning and purpose. Whether it’s a campaign, a 3D asset, or a personal project, I’m always thinking about the story I want to tell and how it will connect with others.

I’m most proud of the resourcefulness I’ve carried with me throughout my career. Some of my best work came when I had limited resources, and that scrappiness has shaped how I approach everything, even now that I have more tools at my disposal. It’s not about how much you have; it’s about what you do with it.

For anyone reading this, I want you to know that my work is rooted in exploration, authenticity, and creativity. Whether I’m collaborating with a client, designing a physical space, or creating for myself, I always aim to craft something meaningful. My philosophy is simple: trust your instincts, lean into your vision, and create with intention. That’s what drives me, and it’s what I bring to every project I take on.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One of the most defining moments of resilience in my journey came when I decided to build out my entire studio space by myself. At the time, I didn’t have the resources to hire professionals, but I knew I needed a creative space that reflected my vision. It was a daunting project—balancing my work, learning new skills like carpentry and interior design, and pushing through the frustrations that come with building something from scratch.

There were countless late nights and moments of doubt, but I reminded myself why I started. I wanted a space where I could feel inspired, where every detail reflected the kind of work I aspired to create. That drive kept me going, even when things didn’t go as planned. In the end, not only did I create the studio I envisioned, but I also proved to myself that I could take on challenges far outside my comfort zone.

That experience taught me that resilience isn’t just about enduring tough times—it’s about trusting your vision and pushing through obstacles to make it a reality. It’s a mindset I carry with me in every project, big or small. No matter how challenging things get, I remind myself that persistence and resourcefulness can turn even the biggest hurdles into stepping stones.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

What helped me build my reputation within my market is my versatility and constant urge to create. I’ve always been deemed a “jack of all trades” by my peers, and that’s because I’ve made it a point to learn the basics of anything creative that interests me. Whether it’s photography, graphic design, 3D modeling, carpentry, or even interior design, I’ve dived in headfirst so I could adapt and contribute to almost any field if needed. This approach has not only expanded my skill set but also made me a valuable collaborator in a variety of projects.

Another factor is my consistency and commitment to quality. Every project I take on, regardless of the scale, is treated with the same level of care and intention. I focus on creating work that’s not just visually impactful but also meaningful and true to my vision. People can sense that authenticity, and I think that’s what helps my work stand out.

Building strong relationships has also been key. Collaboration has played a huge role in my career, and I’ve always prioritized working with people who align with my vision and values. Those partnerships have often evolved into long-term opportunities, helping me grow both creatively and professionally.

Lastly, I think my willingness to share my journey—showing both the successes and the struggles—has connected me with my audience in a genuine way. Creativity is a process, and being open about that has resonated with clients and peers alike, solidifying my reputation as someone who’s resourceful, authentic, and always ready to take on the next challenge.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.charlesandrethomas.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesandrethomas/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CharlesAndreThomas
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesandrethomas/
• Twitter: https://x.com/CharlesA_Thomas

Image Credits

All images were created by me, Charles Andre Thomas.