Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tyler Jordan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tyler, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
I believe that it’s important to do what you love and pursue your passion, even if it means taking a risk and leaving a stable job. While working for the MTA provided me with financial stability, it never fulfilled my creative desires or allowed me to fully express myself. Being able to work on my own terms and create something that truly represents me has been incredibly rewarding. For me, being able to create and express myself through my photography and fashion design is worth more than any salary or job security. Of course, there are challenges that come with being an artist and entrepreneur, but the satisfaction of doing something I love and creating a brand that represents my vision is worth it. Overall, I am extremely happy as an artist and creative, and I have no regrets about leaving my previous job at the MTA. I am excited to see where my journey takes me and what new opportunities and experiences I can create through my work.
Tyler, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
As a self-taught photographer and fashion designer, my work revolves around capturing the essence of urban life and bringing it to life through my photography and clothing designs. I got my first start at subway photography being an employee at New York City Transit working as a subway conductor as well as a train operator. I worked there from 2011 – 2021 and I left to pursue a career as an artist full time, but am very grateful and for the experience and the positive impact it had on my photography.
My photography specializes in two primary areas: subways and fashion. Through my subway photography, I strive to capture the beauty and rawness of the New York City subway system, which has been a big part of my life. My fashion photography, on the other hand, showcases the authentic but polished side of NYC, featuring models and designers in front of the city’s streets and architecture.
In addition to my photography work, I am also the founder of C.A.N.V.A.S, a Brooklyn-based streetwear brand that features a unique lip logo. C.A.N.V.A.S is an acronym for “Creating A New View Around Society” and is known for its bold and attractive designs that push the boundaries of traditional streetwear. Our designs are inspired by the vibrant and diverse culture of Brooklyn, and we strive to create pieces that are both comfortable and stylish.
Our black light reactive lips are designed to make a statement and turn heads, and our signature lip logo is a symbol of confidence, power, and sensuality. We want our customers to feel empowered and bold when wearing our clothing, and our designs are meant to be seen and to create a lasting impression.
One thing that I’m incredibly proud of is my gallery, C.A.N.V.A.S Gallery, which I launched back in 2017. It was a small and intimate space, but it gave me the opportunity to showcase my work and connect with like-minded individuals.
I want potential clients / customers to know that we are a Brooklyn-based streetwear brand that believes fashion is an expression of individuality and self-empowerment. Our bold designs push the boundaries of traditional streetwear, and we strive to create pieces that are both comfortable and stylish. Our signature lip logo represents confidence, power, and sensuality, and we want our customers to feel empowered and bold when wearing our clothing.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
As an artist and creative, I believe that society can do more to support creatives and help foster a thriving creative ecosystem by first recognizing the value of art and creativity in our society, and to provide more opportunities and funding for artists to pursue their work. I believe this can be done through more opportunities for visibility for independent artist through public art projects, financial resources like grants for emerging artists, and brand partnerships between businesses and artists.
Also encouraging young people to explore their creative passions and provide them with the resources and tools to develop their skills. This can be done through funding for arts education programs in schools and community centers, as well as mentorship and apprenticeship opportunities.
Promoting local artists and creatives, as well as businesses that value and invest in the arts through initiatives such as community art fairs, exhibitions, and partnerships with local businesses to showcase and sell the work of local artists. By working together, we can create a more vibrant and supportive ecosystem for artists and creatives to thrive in.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
As an artist and creative, I’m a supporter of NFT’s. NFT’s provide a unique opportunity for artists to maintain ownership and control over their digital artwork, and also to receive royalties when their work is sold. This is a game changer for the art world, where traditionally artists have had very little control over their work once it’s been sold.
Furthermore, interest in NFT’s have created tools that are helping to develop artists communities and support system such as twitter spaces and clubhouse. Giving the artist the ability to sell digital art in a secure and verifiable way through blockchain technology means that artists can now monetize their digital creations and reach a wider audience. This also creates an opportunity for art collectors to invest in unique and rare digital pieces, and for artists to gain recognition and financial compensation for their work.
Overall, I believe that NFT’s have the potential to revolutionize the art world and provide a sustainable way for artists to monetize their digital creations.
Contact Info:
- Website: nyccanvas.com
- Instagram: canvasdesignshop
- Twitter: canvasraw
- Other: personal instagram @lyfeofty