Today we’d like to introduce you to Xanious Ross.
Xanious, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
From the young age of nine, my creative journey began as I sought to express my unique perspective of the world through art and fashion. Currently, I am an artist, creative entrepreneur, and the proud founder and president of Original Kurrencii (pronounced Original Currency), also known in the community as OGK, my own lifestyle brand and corporation. It was during a heartfelt moment at the kitchen table, where my mother taught me how to draw, that I discovered my love for art. Although it may not have been evident at first, that moment was truly defining for me. It opened my mind to the boundless possibilities of illustrating a promising future, and from then on, my notebooks and homework became a canvas for my constant doodling.
Growing up in a single-parent household within a low-income community and being the eldest with two younger siblings, I carried the weight of responsibility to create a better life for my family. Life was far from easy, as I became aware of the domestic violence environment I was being raised in at the tender age of three due to my mother’s relationships. As a teenager, I experienced numerous unfortunate events, including the loss of four dear friends to gang life and gun violence. The odds seemed stacked against me, but I refused to succumb to despair. Instead, I channeled my energy into staying on a narrow path of creativity and motivation, which ultimately gave birth to Original Kurrencii.
In 2004, I started my first job at “Most Wanted,” a street fashion boutique nestled in downtown Bridgeport, Connecticut. It was there that I began designing street-style clothing, such as airbrushed T-shirts and handprinted sneakers for friends and family. This opportunity eventually led me to showcase my work at local fashion shows and artisan markets. As my horizons expanded beyond my neighborhood, my dreams of establishing a brand began taking shape in 2006, marked by the creation of my first logo and mascot, King “Fresh” Kurrencii. Fresh soon gained visibility in the tri-state area, adorning shirts, hats, and the infamous Fresh stickers that became synonymous with my community.
The journey to success wasn’t solely paved with hard work and designs; I also garnered recognition in academia and the community. Throughout high school, I earned several awards, including the NAACP Outstanding Student Award, Wilkerson Scholars of Honor Award, and the Leonhardt Scholars Award, all of which I received upon graduating in 2006. At Richard C. Briggs, an alternative high school in Norwalk, Connecticut, I maintained an impressive 3.8 grade point average, consistently seeking to deepen my knowledge in art and business.
In 2010, the year that marked a turning point for both the Kurrencii movement and myself, I officially launched the brand Original Kurrencii. This was a significant milestone in my life. While I draw inspiration from various artists and brands, I view fashion and creative design as a medium for storytelling, allowing me to express my personal narrative. I firmly believe that everyone is born with a unique talent, and it’s through the sculpting and refinement of that talent that one can stand apart and define oneself. Consequently, I have dedicated myself to sculpting not only my artistic abilities but also my business acumen, spreading the Original Kurrencii brand worldwide and generating a positive buzz.
Alongside my passion for fashion, I find inspiration in entrepreneurial success rather than just fashion success. Visionaries like Kanye West, Karl Lagerfeld, Pharrell Williams, Russell Simmons, Andy Warhol, and Daymond John, the creator of Fubu clothing, serve as guiding lights on my path. Witnessing their journeys showcases the pinnacle of success I aspire to achieve. Similar to Daymond John, who began with humble T-shirts and hats, I recognized that I, too, needed to start with tangible accomplishments as I embarked on this journey.
As an ambitious young man who believes that the sky is the limit, I aim for the moon. Since relocating to Metro Atlanta in 2019, my creative endeavors have expanded to include original pop art paintings, exclusive apparel, and limited merchandise. I consider myself a lifelong artist with a compelling story to tell. While my unique style embraces a more casual approach, it diverges from the rigid tendencies commonly associated with street art.
Looking toward the future, my plans involve collaborating with like-minded brands and artists to design limited-edition merchandise and artwork. Breaking into the fashion industry, renowned for its competitiveness, is undoubtedly challenging. However, I firmly believe that unwavering drive and following one’s heart are key factors in achieving success in this industry of dreams. In a world where raw talent is scarce and commercialization prevails, I aspire to be a grounded artist who becomes a household name and a role model for aspiring creatives and entrepreneurs. From that night of drawing with my family to now, as an underground artist, the industry should take note of my unique and exclusive urban creations. Original Kurrencii confidently declares, “Making Kurrencii isn’t an addiction; it’s a lifestyle,” as an innovative lifestyle brand that fearlessly stands out. By honoring a new era of self-empowerment, it unconsciously uplifts every customer, encouraging them to carry themselves with dignity, self-respect, and pride in their identity and the goals they aspire to achieve.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, the road has not been smooth for me on my journey. I have encountered numerous struggles and obstacles along the way. Some of the challenges I’ve faced include:
-Domestic Violence Environment: Growing up, I had to navigate the difficult circumstances of being raised in a domestic violence environment due to your mother’s relationships and no father figure. This undoubtedly created a challenging and turbulent upbringing.
-Tragic Loss: The unfortunate experience of losing four of my best friends to gun violence have been incredibly difficult and emotionally taxing. Dealing with such losses at a young age was a significant hurdle to overcome.
-Socioeconomic Background: Unfortunately, I have never had a relationship with my father. Coming from a single-parent household in a low-income community added an additional layer of difficulty to my journey. The expectations and responsibilities of creating a better life for myself and my family placed a significant burden on my shoulders.
-Competitive Fashion Industry: Breaking into the fashion industry is notoriously challenging and competitive. I had to face the hurdles of establishing myself as a brand and gaining recognition amidst a crowded marketplace.
Alongside these challenges, another significant struggle I still face on my journey is navigating the realities of being Black in America. The systemic barriers and racial inequalities present in society can present unique challenges and obstacles for individuals of color. As a Black artist and entrepreneur, I have encountered various forms of discrimination, bias, and limited opportunities simply due to the color of my skin. These challenges have manifested in various ways, such as facing stereotyping, inequality in access to resources and opportunities, and even encountering instances of racial injustice and discrimination. Despite these adversities, I have persisted, using my talent, creativity, and determination to rise above societal limitations and break barriers, becoming a role model for other young creatives and entrepreneurs like myself.
My story is a testament to my resilience and ability to navigate adversity while staying true to your artistic vision.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I produce exclusive fashion pieces and original pop art paintings. Over the years, my artistic style has changed primarily as a result of the cartoon characters I’ve created, King Kurrencii and Queen Kurrencii, who have become my own personal pop culture idols. I like to compare them alongside Mickey and Minnie Mouse. They serve as the Original Kurrencii house brand’s two primary logo mascots. I will develop these characters’ stories into novels and TV animations and am incredibly proud to having developed them.
I believe my unique style takes a more casual approach than the rigorous tendencies typical of street art.
What were you like growing up?
I was a shy, endearing, and laid-back kid growing up. I had little trouble making friends and was well-liked because of my cool manner. So I had many friends throughout school. I loved to learn and was especially interested in science and technology. I remember my grandmother purchasing me the entire Encyclopedia Britannica book series when I was just eight years old. I made an effort to read and research anything that was presented to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kurrencii.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/ogkurrencii/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LLKURRENCII
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ogkurrencii/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ogkurrencii
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1lpqzTOhIFfkyKHa1Cr7w/?themeRefresh=1
- Other: http://instagram.com/xaniousjahki/
