Today we’d like to introduce you to Emmanuel Davis.
Hi Emmanuel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been a creative for as long as I can remember. One of the first pieces of art I can remember doing in 1st grade blew my teacher away. We were showing a race between a person and a cheetah, and I drew the little “wind lines” behind the characters and all. Even the hairs on each character flowed. I was the only student to put that much thought into showing speed. It was a small detail, in my opinion, but I suppose it was insightful as a 1st grader. Everything came to a crossroads during my undergraduate studies at NC State (#GOPACK). I can remember hearing as a young kid, “You’re so smart, you’re going to be a doctor,” or, “You are a brilliant kid, I can see you doing (insert high-paying career here).” I believed them and felt pressured to pursue that. The only issue was that I hated the coursework and would fall asleep in my classes. It wasn’t until I was on academic probation, running the risk of losing my athletic scholarship, and crying in my advisor’s office that I took a chance on myself and my passions. I changed my major to visual arts and picked up a minor in design. I had no idea what I planned to do with it, but for the first time, I was happy. After graduation, I bounced around design jobs, here and there. Something was always missing at each place, and once again, I’m taking yet another chance on myself!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
“Entrepreneurship” and “smooth” will NEVER belong in the same sentence! lol. As a graphic and web designer (The Ikigai Creative), the biggest hurdle is oftentimes having the client see the value that you provide. Everyone has that nephew, cousin, or friend who can do it for cheaper. Also, many people will say, “I just want a logo,” or “I just need this website.” They don’t think about how a branding package plays such a huge part. Color theory, guidelines, consumer recognition, and perception are also key. There’s a reason everyone knows what Apple or Starbucks is.
As the owner of a lifestyle and streetwear brand (Alter Ego Clothing), the struggle I have is finding the balance between premium quality and price point. I want my product to be accessible to anyone who desires, but not sacrifice great quality. After sourcing materials for years now, you would be surprised where some of these premium brands source their materials from. A lot of the time, people are paying for the logo.
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 wear multiple hats in my professional career. I run a graphic and web design studio called Ikigai Creative, as well as run a lifestyle and streetwear brand called Alter Ego Clothing. Ikigai Creative was founded after I was let go from my design job at a consulting agency in May of this year. The name Ikigai derives from the Japanese concept of “a reason for being.” Iki translates to “life,” and Gai translates to “value,” or “benefit.” Through my studio, I help clients find their Ikigai, or their whys, while I live mine. Ikigai Creative is a full-service studio specializing in branding and design consulting services.
Alter Ego Clothing is a streetwear and lifestyle brand that merges bold, unique designs with premium quality. I draw inspiration from urban culture, self-expression, and embracing one’s alter ego, making our pieces wearable and meaningful for today’s trendsetters. Our slogan is “Everybodys Got One” (which is also an acronym for the word EGO in Alter Ego).
We offer a range of high-quality apparel, from statement T-shirts and hoodies to limited-edition collections, all crafted with an eye for detail and authenticity. Our designs combine classic streetwear aesthetics with a modern twist, making them perfect for individuals looking to stand out while staying true to their style.
The thing I’m most proud of (other than taking the risk and running multiple businesses) is having my pieces from Alter Ego featured on the lead actor in a nationally televised, award-winning TV show.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Having people who believe in you means the world. A bulk of my success thus far has been through word of mouth. So, to have people who believe in the craft or brand and put their stamp of approval on it is priceless. That and just having faith. I believe in God, and a bible verse I fall back on when times are unsure is Jeremiah 29:11. Pride is another characteristic that has contributed to my success. Not boastful arrogance, but the desire to always put my best foot forward and give my best effort in any situation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theikigaicreative.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/shopalteregoclothing, instagram.com/emmackulate_
- Other: https://shopthealterego.com
