Reviving The Era of Craft and DIY: Custom Clothing with James Rich
Inspired by classic Americana, folk art, and tattoo imagery, James Rich, also known by Bird Like Dog (@bird_like_dog), is an artist living in Virginia whose practice consists of freestyle hand drawings on garments. Interested in his style and work philosophy in relation to Kiriko's values of sustainability, we reached out for a few custom pieces.
Q&A Behind the Creative Process
For this artist collaboration, we sent Rich a few of our core Kiriko Original pieces with the prompt and creative freedom to express Japanese mythology and symbolism involving yokai - supernatural spirits in Japanese folklore.
(Blanks sent to Rich)
Tell us about yourself and your practice.
"I’m an artist from Pennsylvania living in Richmond Virginia. My practice consists of hand drawn garments inspired by folk art, classic Americana, tattoo imagery, and other obscure interests."
How does sustainability fit into the work that you do?
"Sustainability, I think plays a big part in what I do, I'm pretty strict about only sourcing vintage, second hand, thrifted garments for my work. I take a lot of pride in not buying any new stock and also working with brands like Kiriko, who make their own garments in a very ethical and clean way. It feels good to partner with like minded brands."
(After custom art by Rich)
Garments Featured: Kiriko Original Mandarin Collar Lightweight Jacket, Mustard (Center), Kiriko Original Officer Trousers, 7.5 oz. Stretch Twill Chino in Khaki (Right), Kiriko Original Canvas Pants, US Made 12.8 oz., Cream, Small Multi (Left)
(Visual Direction & Mood Board)
What inspires your craft? What is your philosophy?
"I find a tremendous amount of joy and inspiration from outsider art, you could call it low brow art. The imagery I use is self explanatory, I just enjoy it so much. I think my philosophy would be to just make what makes you happy, I make things that I want to see exist."
Tell us about any special techniques you use to create. What makes your art different from other artists?
"Everything I make is first attempt, I don’t trace, I don’t plan ahead, I just start drawing and everything is reaction to what I just did. It’s freeing, I can be loose and at this point I have a pretty good understanding of how things should look and I think my work has its own distinct feel compared to other people doing the same kind of thing. I view my work as more of a one of a kind piece of wearable art rather than a sellable piece of clothing."
What is a typical day like for you?
"My typical day consists of studio time in the morning, an attempt to stay organized and check emails. I work a few part time jobs so my schedule tends to be different most days but as long as I find a few hours a day to get some drawing done I feel successful. Of course I need time with my dog, Bird, she’s my biggest inspiration really."
How did you start your freelance/small business?
"I started this business out of art school when I no longer had the same level of studio access, I began drawing on clothes for fun. My work was noticed on instagram and people began asking for custom pieces and I have now been going on 7 years doing this work."
Where do you hope to see your practice in 10 years?
"I can see my practice already starting to take a turn, I still enjoy drawing on clothes but I find myself wanting to create different kinds of art. I have a solo art show this fall and that has been a really nice change of pace, it’s a heavy emphasis on tramp art wood carving, folk paintings, and an assortment of things I love. I can see my practice beginning to branch out into other areas but with an obvious through line. I love the things I love, and if I’m making anything in 10 years I hope it’s something I love."
What do you hope to inspire in others with your work?
"I hope I can inspire people to just start making, whatever it is. I love seeing people make things, I think it’s so cool. We have definitely entered an era of craft and DiY. It could be a reaction to AI but regardless I think it’s great."
