Life & Work with David Cage of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to David Cage.

Hi David, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m originally from the northwest side of Philadelphia, PA—“Uptown” as most people call it. Philly is a city with grit, creativity, and a whole lot of heart, and that energy shaped me early on. Growing up there, I was drawn to comic books, Saturday morning cartoons, sneakers, graffiti, and hip-hop, while also finding myself inspired by fine art, fashion, and design. I realized pretty quickly that art wasn’t just about what you see—it could carry meaning, spark emotion, and connect with people in powerful ways.

My journey took me from sketchbooks to classrooms, earning a Graphic Design degree from Hampton University in Hampton, VA. During this time, I also immersed myself in youth workforce development and education working with K–12 students and at-risk youth back in Philly, which opened my eyes to both the struggles and resilience in my community. That experience gave my art a stronger sense of purpose and reminded me why creating—and giving back—matters so much to me.

Hungry to grow, I later headed south to Atlanta to study Animation at the Savannah College of Art and Design. That move pushed me further into the digital space, gave me confidence in my craft, and helped me build the foundation for what would become my business, SwayZe Ideations. Along the way, I honed my skills through travel and freelance work—logos, websites, t-shirts, illustrations, paintings—you name it. Each project was another step toward turning creativity into something lasting.

My influences come from Philly’s streets and suburbs, the voice of hip-hop, the rhythm of cartoons and comics, the lessons of great artists, and the everyday stories of people and communities around me. All of it shows up in my work. I take pride in creating pieces that are raw, honest, and rooted in culture—work that reflects real life while giving a voice to stories that need to be heard. For me, art has always been about more than just making something look good; it’s about connection, honesty, and expression.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Growing up as the only artist in a family of educators, I often had to navigate my path alone. While my family valued my talent, they imagined that my skillset with my hands would lead to more traditional careers like becoming a doctor, but I knew early on that art was my true calling. Without a mentor, I adapted to the digital shift in design and learned through persistence.

After graduating from Hampton University, my first design job ended before it began when the company downsized. A year later, I returned to Philadelphia, working in the family business of education to regroup—an unexpected move that ultimately reignited my drive to pursue art. I later enrolled in art school (Savannah College of Art and Design – Atlanta, GA), focusing fully on becoming a multimedia artist despite limited support.

Since graduation, I’ve built a promising career but not without experiencing the industry’s highs and lows—layoffs, racism, a pandemic, and personal loss. Most recently, I’ve faced the passing of my father, my greatest role model, who taught me resilience, positivity, and never to quit. His lessons continue to guide my journey as an artist and professional. I’ve turned every challenge in the art field—whether good or bad—into an opportunity to learn and share that knowledge with others.

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’m a full-time Multimedia Specialist for the government, where I get to design work that truly makes an impact and helps save lives every day. On the side, I run my own art and design studio, SwayZe Ideations, based out of Atlanta, GA, (and Philadelphia, PA) where I serve as both owner and Art Director.

Art has always been a part of me. I started out as a traditional artist—sketching, painting, and experimenting with different mediums—but I’ve never been one to stay in just one lane. I’ve always seen myself as a creative generalist, and now I get to juggle it all: logos, websites, illustrations, mobile apps, custom paintings, and even apparel. My style is a fusion of cartoon and sequential art with touches of realism, elevated by the heroic energy and raw vibrance of urban street art.

What I love most, though, isn’t just the art itself—it’s the people. I pride myself on being able to connect with clients on a deeper level. I don’t just listen to what they want; I try to feel where they’re coming from, and that energy shapes the creative journey we take together.

I’m often described as someone with a creative spark, a sense of style, and a calm, grounding vibe. My life experiences flow into my work, and that helps create a space where SwayZe Ideations’ clients not only trust my skills, but also trust my perspective and the process. At the end of the day, it’s about creating art that connects—not just with me, but with my clients and the world around us.

How do you think about luck?
I don’t know if I believe in luck. I trust The Most High and try to work hard, making sure I’m prepared for opportunity when it presents itself. I don’t know if I’ve ever been lucky…I am blessed though.

Pricing:

• Design Services: Contact for pricing
• Hoodies: $50-$60
• T-Shirts: $30-$40
• Caps: $25-$40
• Varsity Jacket: $400

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.swayzeideations.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swayze_ideations/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swayzeideations