INKED thanks for taking the time to do this interview with Global Hit Music. Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from? What's your educational background? What are your general professional and non-professional interests?
I go by Rudy Mage, I was born in Peru came to Miami when i was 9 years old, Ive lived here ever since. I started off as a graffiti writer in the early 90's, as time went on i developed a talent in art which i took from the walls to the computer. I got a BFA from Miami University of Art & Design in Computer Animation and from there i got into Graphics & Printing, which then opened up the doors into Apparel.
Can you tell us a Little about INKED and all the other projects you are involved in?
I have been in the printing and graphics industry for about 10 years, as time went on i acquired more knowledge and diversified the different medias that i was able to print on. Every single process revolved around ink, so at the end of the day i had INKED all this media, and that's how i came up with the name INKED PRODUCTIONS. INKED PRODUCTIONS is not only a "clothing line" its also a full service print shop. We offer digital printing, screen printing, graphic & web design, direct to garment, embroidery ETC... My main target is not only to grow as a clothing line but to also grow as a manufacturer for others i have two other brands, one is called "The Cry Baby" which is an apparel line for Children. My main inspiration behind this was my son Noah, i figured daddy looks fresh so why not him too, its a market that is less saturated with clothing lines. My other line is called "Elite Clientele" it is strictly high-end fashion mostly specializing in mix media v-necks & Polo's.
When did you realize you wanted to become a designer?
Ive always been in to art, i think i decided i wanted to be a designer way too late in my life. i wasted too many years eating shit and not doing anything with my life. I got my act together about 5 years ago and i haven't looked back ever since.
What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?
I got into t-shirt printing about 7 years ago. My mom got me a heat press for my birthday and i started doing the iron on tees with the cheap transfers. Then i started doing the dead rapper, Scarface, Marley tees etc.. As time passed i learned new methods and started mixing medias and so on.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I can honestly say that graffiti changed my life. There's not many people out there that can say they pursued a dream based upon street art... I did.
How would you define the style your line exemplifies?
I don't like to categorize my brand under any style because i cater to everyone, i make tshirts for the everyday dude to wear. no matter your age, genre,ethnic background i don't care, its a worldwide vision i carry.
Where can readers find out moreabout you and your work?
they can check out my work on-line at www.inkedproductions.com
How would you define your city's fashion?
Miami is up there with the top fashion cities in the world. I just think the market is saturated with people such as myself. The difference is some work harder than others to make it in this industry
Any shout outs to all the GLOBAL HIT MUSIC viewer?
Shout outs to all those out there that are putting in hard work to be successful in life, to all those that work 24/7 365, to all those that have a dream and are not gonna settle for what corporate America has to offer. Last but not least shout out to those that keep it REAL!! To my wife and my family for the support.
Thanks so much for takeing this time to share with us all about INKED and as always we are wishing you much success on all your present and future projects.
