Meet Cristian Hodge of Phoenix, AZ

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cristian Hodge

Hi Cristian, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Chicano culture and the lowrider scene. Just like any other kid growing up in the chicano culture, the dream was to own a lowrider. As I was growing up yet still so young, I wanted to do something that would involve the culture not only for myself, but also to help shed light on the people involved, the art, dedication, and stories along the way. When I was about 16-17 I decided to get into photography. I started out with a little bit of an older camera which is a Canon Rebel T1, but it always did the job. I was also self taught and still learning. During the process of becoming a photographer, I had the idea of wanting to create more work involving the culture, along with photography. I then came up with my clothing brand Chicanos Unidos. My brand is more of the outlet when it comes to my artwork and creativity. So far, I’ve been able to create ideas off my personal photography work, other ideas that I’m able to come up with on my own, and overall just pieces i put together based off my likings that people seem to appreciate and represent with pride. Just recently, through time, I was finally able to work hard enough to earn my own money and buy an old school car to build my first lowrider which is a 1983 Monte Carlo LS. The car is complete stock all original with a 305 engine from a Super Sport. This car is something that will now create memories and carry along lots of stories for many more years..

I was introduced to the lowrider scene at a young age with my dad being a bodyman/painter. I was always able to see all the different old school rides he’d work on from the early 30s to late 80s, maybe early 90s. As far been as I can remember, most of the old school cars I would see were turned into “lowriders.” For those who aren’t aware of what lowriders are.. lowriders are customized classic cars that are often equipped with hydraulic systems that allow the car to be raised or lowered. The cars are most known for their elaborate paint jobs, intricate patterns, murals, and detailed interiors. I’d say they serve as a form of artistic expression and a statement of cultural pride.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
From my personal experience with photography and my clothing brand owner, I would say fortunately, it has been a smooth road for the most part. There has been some struggles along the way though for sure. With me being still new to the work and involvement with the 2 businesses I’ve created and with me really just teaching myself and learning as I progress, I would say it does get stressful at times and can put a pause to alot of other things. I just like to think that if you keep faith, have patience, and stay determined you will find the outs to whatever it is you’re doing.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m kinda doing a little bit of everything for the time being.. I currently have a full time job working with the City of Phoenix – water service department. I do my photography business on the side, mainly on the weekends, and I also work on my clothing brand graphic designing while trying to grow my business pages for both my photography and brand work. I am definitely most proud of my photography work, due to the fact that I am self taught. I believe what sets me apart from others is that I am a very open and strong minded young individual. I am someone who is very passionate and highly motivated. Definitely a hardworking go getter with or without a team.

Image Credits
(Myself) Classic Visuals Photography
@classicvisuals__