ABOUT THE CREATOR

“Born in Bogota, Colombia my parents and I immigrated to the West Suburbs of Chicago, Melrose Park to be exact. I watched my parents start their lives over from scratch, leaving everything and everyone they love back in Colombia for a better life in America. Art was never a career option in my family. My parents ideally wanted me to be an engineer, doctor, lawyer or any kind of professional that usually requires years of school and debt. I’ve always enjoyed drawing since I was a kid, and as much as I wanted to pursue my passion for art, it was always pushed aside because I never saw anyone around me be successful as an “Artist”. Instead, I slowly gravitated to the idea of being my own boss and opening up my own business although I had no idea doing what. As I went into my freshman year of high school I found a new love for clothes and thought maybe fashion was the route for me. This led to the creation of ‘Adfectus’ @adfchi, my street wear line that I started with @SquaredHill; the brand taught me how to create my own artwork that would be printed on T-shirts. I began to play around with various software, creating designs and cartoons for my own pleasure which eventually got the attention of people around me. Before I knew it, Pabs Prints came to life. Never in my life did I think I would become both an artist and small business owner, but it all came full circle. As much as I love it now, I just know that if I was encouraged by someone while I was younger, I would have had a head start on my career today. Knowing this, I ultimately want to encourage others to follow their dreams no matter who doubts you; if you love it and it constantly comes back to you, then it’s what you’re meant to do in life.”

- Pablo Alejandro