Introduce yourself.
I’m Jazz, a graphic designer and illustrator from Toronto. I’m a creative designer who leads projects from research to implementation. I combine empathy, business strategy, and design to create exceptional user experiences. But I’m mostly known for my Simpsons-esque sports illustrations.
How would you describe your work?
I create illustrations for the sports, sneaker, and streetwear communities. The work I do is more on the humour side of illustrations, and some may refer to them as memes. I’d say I work at the intersection of visual arts, sports media, and the entertainment industries.
StockX “Air Max Day” collaboration
We The North
2019 NBA Champions – Toronto Raptors
Tinker and his iconic Air Max
Salehe and his New Balance collaborations
Chunky Dunks
I’m a fun guy!
Mo’ sneakers Mo’ problems…
When did your work start to get noticed and blow up?
My work started catching attention around the 2019 NBA playoffs when the Toronto Raptors were in second place in the Eastern Conference and they had just acquired Kawhi Leonard. I drew images that were relevant to what was happening on the court, and of course, I had to add a bit of humour to them. I also included nods to a few The Simpsons episodes and characters since they’re all relatable and well-recognized. It really blew up when I shared the 2019 Toronto Raptors Championship team in the iconic Simpsons living room. A few illustrations were featured on CP24 (a local news station), Toronto Life, and even the Toronto Raptors official social media accounts reposted the image.
How do you describe your sense of style?
I’d say my style is sports media and entertainment but in The Simpsons form. I draw from the vantage point of Bart and Milhouse if they had Instagram in their universe.
Where do you draw inspiration and ideas from?
They come directly from the news and sports media. Once a significant event happens, I’m usually on it and can create an image within a few hours. I found that the quick turnarounds are what generate the most interaction. I like to think I’m another source to get current sports and streetwear news. I also take a lot of what I do and somehow work it into an existing Simpsons episode. There are 33 seasons and hundreds of episodes to pick and choose from.
What brands are you feeling these days?
I will and always will be feeling Nike. I’ve been such a big fan of them since I was a kid, and the things they do with the latest technologies are just on another level.
I’ve been feeling adidas a lot lately. They’ve come out with some amazing collaborations with The Simpsons, LEGO, and Home Alone that I just needed. I also have to mention Kanye and all he’s done with the brand.
I’ve been talking sneaker brands, but I’m a simple guy with some Levi’s and an all-black Kirkland Tee for comfort when it comes to clothing. Definitely rocking a new era fitted at all times.
What sneakers are in your closet?
I’ve got a few gems in my closet, but nothing too crazy. I will always have a pair of Black Cement 3s, Neon 95s, and Infrared 90s – must-haves for all! I’m also wearing the Sand Foam RNNRs and Wave Runners because they’re just too comfy not to.
What’s next?
I want to put on a show and showcase the images that I’ve created for Toronto – a city I’m proud to rep. I want to relive that Raptors championship year and play it back one more time. After that, I will dive into a new style, other than The Simpsons. It’s in the works.
