Filipino artist Jappy Agoncillo talks blending creative freedom with clients and his latest collaboration with adidas
Homegrown talent, Filipino muralist, and illustrator Jappy Agoncillo is adding his signature brand of vibrant and energetic art to another well-known brand.
Following in the footsteps of fellow Filipino artists such as Quiccs and Egg Fiasco, Jappy has released a new must-get collaboration through the adidas “Manila Hoops” tee collection.
Serving as an exclusive release for the adidas Brand Center City Shop, the Manila Hoops Collection draws inspiration from Filipinos’ love for basketball and diverse street culture with references to street food, key landmarks, and other Filipino cultural marks.
The artist sat down with PhilSTAR L!fe to take us through his process and how his Manila Hoops design stands out from the rest.
"With any project with brands, you will have to do a lot of research," Jappy shared. "You're gonna have to do a lot of reading, a lot of getting into the brand. With adidas, it's very easy because I'm a big fan. I knew what they were doing, I knew how they did things."
He also considered it good fortune that he was given a lot of creative freedom to make the designs a true Jappy Agoncillo original.
"In making the designs, I just had to go by the guidelines—but also make the designs with as much freedom as I could. What was nice about [this project] that was different from other brands before was that they were very happy to let me take the rein."
True enough, Manila Hoops' intricate design and authentically Pinoy themes make it a success for both Jappy and the sportswear brand.
With the designs in mind, Jappy also took note of the type of market that adidas brings: “Just like how adidas as a brand is a timeless classic, I also wanted to create a design that will stand the test of time. One that is able to connect with Filipinos regardless of time or generation."
As for his advice to budding designers and artists, Jappy says that nothing beats good 'ol determination, persistence, and a whole lot of patience.
"Be patient because your dream projects aren't going to happen overnight," the artist said. "It takes years and years of working and not even knowing if it will ever happen. But if you continue to work hard and you have a lot of patience, it will happen."
"You just need to keep your head down, keep working, and be patient."
Retailing at P1,550, the adidas City Shop x Jappy Agoncillo "Manila Hoops" Collection will be exclusively available starting May 27, 2022 in adidas Brand Center Glorietta.