Why did you take such an iconic image in Hip-Hop like the Jesus piece and dip it in red ceramic? Have some people said that’s sacrilegious?
All Kanye and Red October hype lol. I’m a huge fan and when everyone sure thought the Red Octobers were going to drop in October. I thought I should do something red to match because getting a pair was a sure thing for me at that time. I experimented with a few pieces. First it was a bracelet. I didn’t like it. Also the Yeezus concert was around that time at the Barclays. Then I remembered a line off “Can’t Tell Me Nothing,” my favorite track off of his Graduation album. It kept sticking with me: “I know that Jesus died for us, but I coudn’t tell you who the side was.” So it felt right to do that at the moment. I’m always making stuff or experimenting so this just happened at that moment. I didn’t think about offending anyone. I just wanted to do that. They sold pretty well.
How is the city of NYC incorporated as a part of your brand?
I live here. I learned a lot here. It’s shaped me and continues to shape me. New York influences me to do all that I do. It’s only right I rep for the city. I love this place.
Explain the Bad Apple Life brand and how it differs from Da Vinci NYC.
It doesn’t differ at all really. The Bad Apple is like the mascot of Davinci NYC. Kinda like how Staple has the pigeon, Hundreds have the Adam Bomb, 10 Deep has Murko. I wanted a Bad Apple lol. Eventually I want it to grow into something of its own, you know-“the big apple.” I thought that was cliche so I changed it to Bad Apple. The ideas for Bad Apple designs comes from my heavy interest and influences in the street wear culture, art world, and the city. My go to graphics guy, Lavan Wright, helps me bring all this to life. We share the same visions on this. I’m working on Bad Apple toys and other merchandise at the moment.
Da Vinci is remembered as one of the greatest minds ever. What do you want your legacy to be?
Haven’t thought of that yet but something epic and worth remembering positively.
What’s next for Da Vinci NYC?
Building a proper foundation to change to the game.
Roger Krastz (@WaLLDoE)
Bryan Hahn (@notupstate)