We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chris Vargas. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chris below.

Alright, Chris thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

It all started with a vision. I was down and out, not feeling to great about myself or what i had been doing with my life. My relationship with my family was at an all time low and something needed to change. I had no control over anything outside of myself, so i began from within.

Growing up i was introduced to silkscreen printing from my dad. it amazed me how photos were printed, and the process it took to get final print made. I wanted to learn the business and start something of our own but couldnt figure out how to begin. I decided to start a clothing line that would help kids get free shirts and art supplies. I started donating to random classes and finding teachers i could work with. With things looking up and my visions starting to come together i knew that the work ahead of me was gonna be a challenge if i didnt make some changes in my personal life.

I got sober, and began making healthier choices to see this vision through. A friend of mine had this shop she was letting go of and i wanted to see if It would be a good fit for our business. After checking it out, and talking with Art froms Ashes they accepted me in.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I got into Silkscreen printing through my dad. Honestly it was the only thing we had in common and communication was what was going to bring back this relationship. I started the business so i can learn everything from him.
Our goal is to provide a therapeutic environment that focuses on health and well being. Providing kids free workshops a teaching them a skill through art that can benefit their creative talent.

During these last few years of staying clean and healthy while building up this shop, Ive also kept a full time job and rode my bike the whole time doing it all. I went through this to condition my mental and physical body, to be a an example that anything is possible if you just work on yourself joyfully.

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

I would say riding my bike during this whole journey has been one of my biggest accomplishments. Ive gained mental and physical strength.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Our goal is to provide inspiration to the kids in the community through creative art.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @the_shop_on_10thcv

Image Credits

Photos by Chris Vargas (myself)