Black History Always: BLVCK SHEEP
Image courtesy of BLVCK SHEEP
Written By: Dean Millard
The sheep follow the herd. The black sheep stands out and follows its own distinct path. Three years ago, BLVCK SHEEP was born. My cousin, Zhair Nixon, is the founder, creator, and owner of BLVCK SHEEP.
Zhair has always been an avid and skilled artist. However, it was during his time as a student at West Chester University in Chester County, PA when Zhair considered the possibility of putting his love for art to purposeful use. He began creating art more frequently but soon realized he could achieve more…he asked himself how he could make his art profitable. He then began making art for others. This was a step in the right direction but Zhair did not settle there. His next objective was to find a way to venture into distributing his work on a larger scale. This led to the next phases for Zhair: clothing and jewelry.
He had the ideas and designs but he needed a distinct name; something that would set his brand apart from others. Through his research, he came across the term black sheep. He felt as though the term had a negative connotation. That being said, Zhair made it his mission to shed a positive light on the connotation of black sheep. BLVCK SHEEP soon became the name of his company and Zhair has stuck with it since. He wants society to understand that there is nothing wrong with being different. The BLVCK SHEEP brand is an outlet for Zhair that transcended his original passion for art. Zhair’s wide array of products includes hoodies, t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, puffer coats, hats, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, custom sneakers, dresses, bags, custom water bottles, and much more.
BLVCK SHEEP is much more than a brand; It is a lifestyle. Zhair carries his meaningful messages in all of his interactions. Zhair embodies what it means to be THEE BLVCK SHEEP. His primary manifestations are shared through profound daily reminders: Spread Love & Positivity. He implements meaningful messages and cultural knowledge behind the merchandise. Zhair strives to provide opportunities to unfortunate and talented individuals by uplifting low-income communities around the world.
Zhair’s most significant challenge with his brand thus far has been financially investing back into it. It took time for him to find the manufacturers that made his visions and designs tangible. Zhair has always had high expectations for the clothing quality, manufacturer communication, and pricing. These factors have allowed him to distinguish between the manufacturers that were the best fit for his brand. He has worked with manufacturers from around the world and has had to navigate language barriers. Throughout these challenges, Zhair has learned to manage his time as efficiently and effectively as possible when it comes to creating, designing, and communicating with the manufacturers.
Zhair’s creativity has not gone unnoticed. Multiple of his products were featured in the critically acclaimed Showtime Original Series, The Chi. Lena Waithe, the executive director, personally reached out to Zhair about his unique products and also asked Zhair to send her some of his products for herself. BLVCK SHEEP was also featured in the Showtime documentary, “NYC Point Gods.”
Zhair’s clothing was recently featured in the Villanova Black Law Student Association’s (BLSA’s) Fashion Show. His highly demanded Michael Jackson [NEGATIVES] Tapestry Hoodie was featured by one of BLSA's members. The [NEGATIVES] hoodie has unique design variations including Michael Jordan, Bruce Lee, and the Fertile Garden.
BLVCK SHEEP’s most recent drop is the exclusive Jalen Hurts [UNTAMED] hoodie. In collaboration with the FoodChasers Kitchen, a black-owned brunch restaurant owned by two of Zhair’s family friends, this hoodie concept came to life. After Jalen Hurts visited the increasingly popular restaurant in Cheltenham, PA, Zhair took advantage of the opportunity to make Jalen Hurts a BLVCK SHEEP and Foodchasers hoodie during the Eagles’ super bowl run. This hoodie sold out very quickly. Zhair received overwhelming support. It’s a Philly Thing.
Moving forward, Zhair wants to continue to be creative and original with designs, artwork, jewelry, and clothing. He has displayed versatility with his wide range of unique and distinctive products. He also hopes to continue to grow and reach the very high potential of his brand.
We are all sheep. However, it is up to us to decide if we are BLVCK SHEEP. Zhair reminds us not to follow the shepherd or the herd. Do not keep unconsciously following societal norms. Zhair’s primary message to us all is to Stay OUTSIDETHEFENCE and Keep Being You.
Follow Zhair on Instagram and Tik Tok @theeblvcksheep and shop on his website: https://blvcksheep.squarespace.com/