Today we’d like to introduce you to Jude Caze.
Hi Jude, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am an Afro-Caribbean-American graphic designer, engineer and founder of paperxpencil© Creative Design Lab. I was born in Brooklyn, New York in the 80s. As a young man, I was intrigued by video games and electronic arts ultimately leading me to study electrical/computer engineering at Florida A&M University (Tallahassee) earning a BSEE. After graduation, I took my talents to South Florida!
After some time in corporate America, I felt my creative energy was being wasted and needed an outlet for my artistic ideas. So in early 2018 paperxpencil© Creative Design Lab was born in sunny Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The design inspiration for my brand is the beach where I often find myself with paper and pencil, documenting my creative thoughts and reflecting on my everyday life.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
As an entrepreneur, there are always bumps in the road. However, 2020 was especially challenging with the Covid 19 pandemic. Locations and models were scarce presenting an issue for lookbook photos. I don’t ever suspect business will be smooth but I have the necessary resilience to overcome any obstacles to ensure the growth of my business.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in graphic design, particularly apparel. My mission with my brand is to highlight the physical and spiritual benefits of nature; for me, the beach is my place of peace so my designs are rooted in the sun, sky, sea, and sand. I’m most proud of being part of this movement to get back to nature. Reconnecting with what is real and simple. I really try to create designs that are thought-provoking and talk to people of color.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Fort Lauderdale is so diverse! The people, food, music, and overall art culture is inclusive and always forward-thinking. The year-round ‘t-shirt and shorts’ friendly weather attract diverse transplants from all over the country. Unfortunately, that same weather is perfect for hurricanes and the destruction that comes along with tropical storms.
Contact Info:
- Email: jcaze@paperxpencil.com
- Website: www.paperxpencil.com
- Instagram: @pxpbrand
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCjOBeL9Xq_3bB9CJ384cVg
