Artist, Casey O’Kelley aka The Guru has made designs for various brands: Friendly Neighbors, Cheaux Love, Young Dreamers, ODM, and Oberon. He’s a well-rounded artist and member of the BLKKSPACE Collective art group. Casey is a humble and eccentric individual who prides himself on the products he displays. Here’s your chance to get to know a little more about him.
Name: Casey O’Kelley
Age: 21
Classification: Senior
Major: Art
Hometown: Snellville, GA
HC: What form of art do you specialize in?
Casey: I do print-making, photography, graphic design, fashion design, and painting.
HC: What is the meaning behind the name “The Guru?”
Casey: Honestly, there really isn’t much of a meaning behind “The Guru.” Guru is a name that describes someone that knows more than the average person. When people hear the name, they automatically assume that I am capable of feats that they are not simply because of my name. Plus, it sounds dope.
HC: Tell me about BLKKKSPACE Collective and the art show you guys held.
Casey: Well the BLKKSPACE Collective is an art group me and my friends started. The reason we started it was because we couldn’t get our art in galleries down here so we thought, “Why not build our own gallery?” Once people got word that we were having an art show, I couldn’t walk through the library without getting stopped. People would ask, “When are you going to give me some art,” or, “Where can I buy it?” I’d always just leave them guessing. When we had the show we got a huge amount of positive feedback from students and professors. Now, we are planning many more shows including a big show at the end of the year that anyone can participate in.
HC: What inspires you the most?
Casey: I don’t draw inspiration from one single source. I am a sponge. I quietly move throughout life, listening and watching those around me in order to get a feel for what’s next.
HC: You do great designs on clothing. Do you plan on starting your own clothing line, or are they exclusive?
Casey: [Laughs] you’ll see. I try not to speak much on what I have planned for the future. I like to surprise people—but I will say this: keep your eyes and ears opened.
Rap Artist OG Maco and Kimberly Williams with an Oberon shirt.
HC: Where can people go to see your artwork? Any upcoming showcases?
Casey: A few, the dates have not been finalized yet. I will also have a few installments on campus soon.
HC: What do you plan on pursuing after you graduate?
Casey: Complete and total world domination. I will not rest until every man, woman, and child is swagged out with my clothing.
HC: How do you practice time management? Any tips?
Casey: Do as much as possible, then do some more, then go to sleep. I’m a firm believer in late nights and early mornings.