From engineering the graphic layouts on Meji Meji trucker hats to hand-distressing cut-sleeve tees for his own streetwear label, multidisciplinary graphic designer King-David turns flat digital assets into tactile, wearable culture. Operating out of his studio under the moniker Essie, he bridges the gap between screen-based typography and physical fashion. His expansive portfolio proves that true visual identity must account for how a design moves, feels, and is experienced in the real world. Rather than restricting his output to a single medium, he seamlessly adapts his visual language across apparel fabrication, editorial publication, and music industry art direction.
This seamless transition from screen to fabric is most evident in his extensive collaborative work with the fashion label Meji Meji. Serving as a driving creative force behind some of the brand's most recognizable products, King-David engineered the apparel design for the highly successful Your Cup Runneth Over campaign. Working closely with founder Tolu Coye and leveraging campaign photography by Toyin, he translated complex brand narratives into wearable art. His specific contributions, including the meticulously structured Meji Meji trucker hats, showcase his understanding of physical silhouettes and material constraints, proving that effective visual design must account for how a garment moves, feels, and is worn in the real world.
Beyond his vital contributions to external fashion houses, a holistic look at his curated selection reveals a deep commitment to independent, self-directed physical projects. Through his own imprint Nearos Project, he actively prototypes and releases tactical streetwear, including the Sharp Shooter six-panel camo hats and hands-on distressed cut-sleeve tees. His technical discipline extends into editorial and packaging design, highlighted by Nature's Muse, a bilingual Yoruba and English publication developed during his Master's studies that explores the intersection of jewelry design and natural environments. Whether he is designing custom WHOT inspired playing cards for Ehru Studios or vinyl stickers for luxury brands, he approaches every medium with the same rigorous attention to spatial composition and cultural resonance.
His collaborative impact also heavily anchors the visual identities of rising voices in the global music scene. King-David regularly executes cover art, typography, and motion graphics for stage performances, designing title cards and promotional materials for artists like Minz and Jaylon. By bringing together animated stage visuals, high contrast poster designs, and physical merchandise like the Kush Man comic style tees, he builds immersive worlds that support audio experiences. Ultimately, King-David stands out because his visual storytelling refuses to be confined to a single format, consistently pushing the boundaries of how modern African design is consumed, worn, and celebrated.
