Hard work Strength and Performance x MCK
Over the past couple of months, I've had the fantastic opportunity to collaborate with the local North Carolina brand, "HWSP" (Hard Work Strength and Performance) by the one and only Joey Mac. Their mission, "We aspire to inspire and to remove the excuses of mediocrity, to be so strong that others feel stronger around us. We will empower the powerless and teach that greatness is a mindset. Hard work always pays off," absolutely resonated with me. Excitedly, I took on the challenge of creating four vibrant murals inside the North Raleigh location at 2609 Discovery Dr, Raleigh, NC 27616.
Coming up with the mural concepts was a breeze. After brainstorming numerous ideas, we settled on a minimalist graffiti style that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the HWSP brand. The first piece features my signature 3D wall effect, proudly showcasing the phrase "STFU!" surrounded by tagged "Excuses" commonly heard during training sessions in bodybuilding, powerlifting, and other physical disciplines.
The dedication required for such intense physical training has always struck a chord with me, mirroring the commitment needed in business or the art of graffiti. The path is filled with obstacles, requiring a relentless personal effort. I firmly believe in keeping my head down and doing the work, a philosophy that aligns seamlessly with Joey's brand ethos. It's about staying focused and putting in the effort because, in the end, the work speaks for itself.
Following the first piece, a wall unfolds with the iconic "GOAT" logomark, the brand's mission statement, and culminates in a striking one-point perspective cityscape featuring a bold "HWSP" in my distinct lettering style. We kept the color scheme minimal, perfectly echoing the brand's aesthetic. My goal was to convey all the grit and authenticity of graffiti through Joey's brand, creating a unique space for gym-goers to appreciate.
Often, gym spaces are vast warehouses with blank walls, lacking personality. Standing out in the social media cacophony becomes crucial. When your members showcase their workouts against a backdrop of inspiring artwork, it not only elevates your brand but also expands its influence. In my previous role as a gym owner, I gained a unique perspective that enables me to work closely with brands like HWSP, addressing their specific needs for transformative wall art.
Crafting this artwork involved a blend of tools, from Pilot ink markers for initial sketches to rollers and brushes, along with interior paint for large color fills. Montana Hardcore and MTN Black were employed for embellishments, lettering, and intricate details. Sticking to standard NY fat caps for large fills and Cream skinny caps for finer details ensures a quick, clean finish.
What sets Joey apart is the unwavering support he provided throughout the creative process. From ensuring I had lunch and water to involving his content creation team in the project, particularly a big shoutout to Daniel, Joey was incredibly communicative, allowing me creative freedom while consistently following through on his promises. His resounding support on social media and in person truly distinguishes him from the rest.
Building a genuine relationship over these projects, rather than adopting a purely transactional approach, is something I value immensely. I eagerly anticipate future collaborations with more gym owners. If you find yourself in this category and reading this, shoot me an email, and let's transform your space together!