Today we’d like to introduce you to Nathan Tan
Nathan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi my name is Nathan Tan and I am the owner of New Skool apparel and accessories. I am a local artist and designer that grew up here in the Bay Area. As a teenager I was lucky to be a part of the first wave of graffiti artists here in the Bay Area. This is the mid 1980’s when Hip Hop was in it’s golden era. My graffiti work transformed into graphic design work after college and that morphed into my own line New Skool. Today I wholesale New Skool and my artwork to boutiques in the Bay Area and online. Running New Skool for 20 years has really taught me a lot about business and I enjoy mentoring young artists and business owners in their journey.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Everything! Lol! Probably the hardest thing to do is learn the financial side of business. The true bottom line and longevity. I am most proud of slowly growing my business at my pace and achieving local and international acclaim.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I started my clothing line New Skool in 2004 after a ten year career as a graphic designer. My previous experience really helped me understand the design side of business but learning the business side took a second! My headphone onesie design was a local hit early on and was the inspiration for many “big corporate chain” knockoffs. This solidified my place as a local designer and we are so happy to be celebrating 20 years in business this year. Today we sell apparel, accessories, stickers, cards, art prints, original canvases and more!
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Here is a good one! Business is not personal. Don’t get emotional about things and be professional. Your reputation and name follows you forever! If you can find a person with experience willing to mentor you be grateful and take the advice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shopnewskool.com
- Instagram: @newskoolsf
- Facebook: @newskoolsf
- Twitter: @newskoolsf
