Charis Jackson Barrios is a Black and Paraguayan artist & designer raised and based in the american south. Drawing from all corners of their multicultural upbringing— their personal work is continually inspired by the women, textiles, flora and vibrant colors of their cultivated background. Charis graduated with a degree in fine art from the distinguished art school, The Cooper Union in New York city. Within her ongoing commercial career, she has worked with several notable clients including Google, The New Yorker, Disney, and more. From her studio practice she hopes her work can find a home in any space that wishes to invite an eclectic spirit, a soft elegance, or some modern cool.
How and when did your brand and creative journey come to life?
I’d say both came about fairly organically. As a brand ‘charisjb.studio’ is still quite young as most of my career has been client-facing where I’ve had the pleasure of working with various brands on a wide array of projects like commercials and editorial. I’m really excited by the idea of partnering with brands like Otto Studio that focuses on products for consumers.
Tell us about your business
For me, my work as an artist and designer is in a lot of ways just an extension of myself. A lot of the projects I work on, both commercial and personal, usually touch on some aspect of my identity or the things I enjoy. As a business I think it’s important for me to be able to answer that creative “why” question first and foremost before deciding to take on a project.
What made you want to partner with Otto Studio?
I was so excited when I found Otto Studio and saw how well they collaborate with artists and designers to create fresh and on-trend collections that also reflect the artists’ work. Several artists I already followed and admired had worked with them, and their collections all look stellar and totally unique to the artists’ perspective. I’m really proud and happy to be amongst such great company.
In your opinion, what are some ways that people can use wallpaper that haven’t been fully explored? Where does your creativity immediately take you?
I’m really excited about the possibilities that come with the use of tiles in my collection! Of course they could be used as floor tiles, but there’s also the possibility of using them as a kitchen backsplash, used to frame a fireplace, or even to tile stair risers.
What would be your one piece of advice for someone considering DIY wallpaper?
Don’t be afraid to take a big swing! I think as renters, we’re always thinking about keeping the apartment ‘pristine’ so we can get that deposit back once we’re ready to move.
But our homes are for living, and I think Otto does a great job of creating renter-friendly products so that we can live in a space we genuinely love.
What would your advice be to your younger self, knowing what you know now about your career and journey? And to anyone else who is starting out as a creative?
I’d say, don’t be afraid to reach for those dream projects. Creating a collection like this is certainly not something I would have imagined for myself just a few years ago, and yet I’m thrilled by gaining the opportunity just by consistently moving in that direction.
