We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Trent McKinney a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Trent, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.
“That’s why I’m fresh today.”
My parents laid the bedrock for my achievements by ingraining in me the paramount importance of a quality education. They impressed upon me that knowledge is a priceless asset, a key that unlocks doors and propels one forward in life. This fundamental principle has been my North Star, guiding me through the intricate paths of academic and professional pursuits.
Beyond the realms of academia, my parents bestowed upon me the sagacity of frugal shopping, cultivating in me an appreciation for the value of every dollar spent and the exhilaration of unearthing superior items at a reasonable cost. This lesson in fiscal prudence has not only molded my spending habits but has also nurtured a discerning eye for quality in various facets of life.
A crucial facet of their sagacious counsel was the insistence on taking one’s appearance seriously. In essence, “that’s why I’m fresh today” encapsulates their belief that presenting oneself with meticulous care extends beyond mere vanity—it signifies a mindset of self-respect and confidence. This principle has deeply influenced how I approach professional interactions, recognizing the profound impact of a polished image in diverse settings.
My parents imparted to me the art of being ‘fly’ in all dimensions of life, not just limited to fashion but extending to the cultivation of a well-rounded and self-assured persona. This comprehensive approach to personal development has left an indelible mark on my life and career. Their teachings have equipped me with the tools to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and project a positive image in both personal and professional arenas.
In summary, my parents’ unwavering commitment to education, financial prudence, and a meticulous approach to appearance has played a pivotal role in shaping my character and influencing my journey. These values continue to steer my choices, contributing to both personal fulfillment and professional triumphs.
Trent, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Originating from Houston, TX, my journey into the world of Visual/Graphic Design was sparked by a childhood immersed in the richness of print media. The curated collection of iconic magazines and newspapers on our coffee table, from Sports Illustrated to Time and the WSJ, ignited my fascination with the intersection of captivating visuals and thought-provoking content. Those formative moments paved the way for a lifelong passion that continues to fuel my creative spirit.
My evolution into Graphic Design was serendipitous, sparked by a request in 2019 from a Dallas rapper to design cover art for his inaugural record release. This experience marked the beginning of a career where creativity, storytelling, and a genuine love for the visual arts converged seamlessly.
What I’m most proud of is my audacity to bet on my talent and venture into self-employment. While navigating the challenges of working independently, I’ve acquired the resilience and patience necessary (with a lot left to learn) for success in this dynamic industry. As a versatile professional, I’ve worn hats as a UI/UX Designer, Creative Director, Brand Builder, and merch/clothing designer, navigating diverse mediums with consistently desirable outcomes. Grateful for the opportunities and growth, I attribute my journey to a higher force, thanking God for the ability to craft in various forms and produce results that speak volumes.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Navigating the challenges of collaborating with a screen printer from Stockton, CA, presented a formidable setback when the individual unexpectedly failed to fulfill my order for a highly anticipated limited-edition release— a stylish hoodie and pants set. This experience served as a valuable lesson, underscoring the importance of thorough vetting when engaging in business transactions beyond state lines or internationally. The realization that trust is hard-earned spurred a renewed commitment to strategic networking.
In the aftermath of this ordeal, I seized the opportunity to cultivate relationships with reputable manufacturers locally in Houston. Through organic growth, I found myself aligned with significant players in the garment production industry. This experience not only strengthened my resilience but also equipped me with the knowledge and connections necessary to navigate any future challenges with confidence and foresight. As a result, I now stand poised to engage in seamless collaborations, armed with the wisdom gained from overcoming past setbacks. This setback has proven to be a stepping stone towards more secure and fruitful partnerships, ensuring positive outcomes in future endeavors.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Embarking on my creative journey, I believe my talent is a divine gift entrusted to me by the Lord — an instrument not just for personal fulfillment but a means to positively impact as many lives as possible. The artistic prowess that courses through my veins finds its roots in the extraordinary talent of my mother, a virtuoso across various mediums. Her creative legacy has been a beacon guiding my ability to conjure both visual and tangible marvels.
Much like my mother’s ability to draw, paint, engage in papier-mâché, and construct captivating 3D installations, I have been endowed with the capability to traverse the realms of digital creation and the tangible manifestation of ideas. From crafting compelling visuals in the digital domain to bringing forth physical products such as bespoke clothing, my creative pursuits aim to not only showcase my artistic lineage but, more importantly, to extend a helping hand to those touched by the fruits of my imagination. In essence, my creative mission is intricately woven with a dedication to utilizing my God-given talent for the betterment and inspiration of others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.intel-agressif.com
- Instagram: @trennygram
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tmckinnuiux/
- Other: https://dribbble.com/trenthtx
Image Credits
IG: @quincysgalleryHTX