We recently had the chance to connect with Chris Sellers and have shared our conversation below.
Chris, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Marathon training and gardening
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Chris Sellers. I run CSA Designing LLC, a creative screen-printing and design studio based in Florida. We specialize in water-based screen printing, which gives our work a soft, premium feel while staying eco-friendly. What makes CSA unique is that it’s not just a print shop; it’s a creative hub built around storytelling and design. Under the CSA Designing umbrella, I’ve built multiple sub-brands that reflect different parts of who I am. From Deadleg Running Apparel, inspired by the mental grit of distance running, and Renaissauce, my art-driven food brand.
Everything I do, whether it’s printing, art, or building brands, is about turning real life grit into something beautiful and meaningful. CSA Designing is where creativity, craftsmanship, and purpose all collide.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A big turning point for me was when I was in art school. I was constantly being pushed to make work that fit into whatever was trending in the wart world; to paint in a way that reflected culture instead of questioning it. The more I tried to fit in that mold, the more I realized how much the art world felt like repetition. Derivative versions of the same ideas dressed up as originality. That experience really changed how I see the world. It made me stop trying to fit into it and instead focus on building my own. One rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship, and purpose. That’s where my studio and brands come from. Creating work that doesn’t follow culture, but adds something real to it.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
I think the last major time I changed my mind was when I decided to step away from the traditional art world. This was about a year and a half ago. For a long time, I felt like I needed its approval – that success meant being accepted by the system. But I realized I needed to relearn who I was before I could approach my art again. Even though I still paint, I stopped letting the art world define me. Instead, I started building from my own passions (screen printing, design, storytelling) and that’s what lead to CSA Designing. It’s allowed me t form real connections with genuine people, not because I’m trying to impress them, but because the work I put in to my business actually means something.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I used to believe that talent alone would be enough. That if I just worked hard, made good art, and followed the rules, everything would fall into place. Looking back, that was pretty naive. The truth is, the world doesn’t reward creativity just because it’s good. It rewards persistence, authenticity, and the willingness to take risks outside of the system. I had to unlearn the idea that validation comes from institutions or trends. Once I stopped chasing approval and started creating from my own world, things finally started to align – in business, in art, and in life.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I’ve learned that originality doesn’t come from trying to be different, it comes from being honest. Most people chase trends or overthink how to stand out, but real individuality happens when you strip all of that away from the truth. Whether it’s printing, painting, or running a business, I’ve realized that authenticity always cuts through he noise. It’s not about being louder than everyone else. It’s about being real enough hat people feel it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://csadesigning.com
- Instagram: @csa_designing
- Facebook: CSA Designing
- Yelp: CSA Designing
