Quinton Pearson is the young Guyanese designer who has disrupted the Caribbean fashion industry. Quinton launched his design brand, the House of Pearson in 2014 at age 22.  Since then, he has been named the official designer for the Miss Global International Pageant in Guyana. Quinton continues to grow his fashion brand with new collections each season, and today, he shares his creative process and his Guyanese favourites.

Describe Guyana in three words.

Massive. Diverse. Home.

What is your favourite Guyanese traditional dish, and why?

I was born on the Essequibo Coast where there is a mixture of all cultures found in Guyana, and since I’m mixed with Amerindian and East Indian, I could eat roti and curry every day, even if it’s just potato curry (aloo curry).  My next favourite dish is pepperpot and homemade bread.

What is your favourite time of year?

Definitely the month of February, it’s a time when most of my inspiration is born, and since my birthday is on 23^rd February (Mash Day), that makes it even better. I always do something memorable in February.  Four years ago I publicly launched my fashion brand to the world, got registered, and launched various collections.  In February 2017, I launched my swimwear line that is now available at Pieces & Things and House of Pearson.

 

Describe your typical day.

Challenging but productive, I generally wake up at 7am and I get prepared to work; I always approach my day with optimism. I plan my activities the night before to keep on track and I work towards achieving those small goals.  At the end of each day, those small goals add up to one major successful day.  There are some days when I don’t win every battle but I never give up. I pray and ask God for another day to go at it again.

Where in Guyana do you like to kick back and relax with family and friends?

There is no place like home, I like to entertain my friends and family at my place. My favourite way to entertain is to prepare some of my favourite snacks or order takeout, watch movies, or have a games night.

What two words best describe the House of Pearson brand?

Authentic. Extraordinary.

 Describe your design and creative process.

I would describe myself as classic yet modern, and, as such, I portray that quality in my designs.  My inspiration comes from various sources including this magical earth we all live in. My designs are relatable to my followers and clients as well.

When a customer contacts me for an original piece, I always prefer to meet that individual personally and carry out a short interview, learning the things they like and dislike; my illustrations (sketches) always reflect those qualities for that client.  I always work arduously to ensure my garments synchronise with the illustrations. Happy customers make me happy.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given about creative entrepreneurship?

Remain humble and never stop learning. This is something my mentor from Trinidad taught me four years ago while attending Burrowes School of Art.  There is always something new to learn and put into practice. And as an entrepreneur, when you open your mind for growth and remain humble, you’ll realise there are endless lessons for you to focus on. Also, always work to perfect your craft.  If you want to be at the top you have to start at the bottom, and don’t ever cheat your way up because you won’t be learning those valuable lessons you needed before.  You only need to compete with who you were yesterday.

What is your favourite music?

I’ve always had a diverse taste in music. I like music with positive vibes, inspiration, and singers with unique voices.  Any music that passes those criteria I will be drawn to.  But I definitely support our local artistes and I am rooting for them to have international status in the near future.

What is your favourite childhood memory?

That would definitely be spending time with my family and listening to the intense stories my parents used to tell me. I’ve always had a very active imagination and those stories would come to life for me.  Thanks to mom and dad some of these stories have influenced me, and have impacted the person I am today.

Where is your favourite restaurant?

For me, having one favourite is boring. I have a few favourite restaurants: Night Cap, Gravity Lounge and OMG! I picked those places because I like variety, places that are cosy, modern and trendy, vibrant and affordable.  When I’m bored at home or simply want to go somewhere to eat some amazing cuisines, I’d think about one of these places.

Where would you recommend as a ‘must go’ to a first time visitor to Guyana?

I’d say Stabroek Market is a must visit.  I would prefer to show off the things that no other country really has, and when you think about all the things that happen at the Market, it’s amazing to see. At Stabroek, you’ll find people of all ages and races, at one place, working hard to earn and provide for their families and themselves. And visitors can find almost anything they need there including gifts and souvenirs to always remember Guyana by.  Of course there are so many other places we have here that we ought to be proud of and show off to the World.

Which local activist/personality do you admire the most, and why?

Dr. Sonia Noel. She has been an inspiration to all in the fashion industry for years in Guyana, the Caribbean and around the world.  She is also a Global Ambassador and is dedicated to helping young people realise their dreams.

What major developments would you like to see happen in Guyana in the next 30 years?

I would like to see Guyana become a leading country in the Caribbean for trade.  I would like to see all youths in school excited about education. I hope that Guyanese people in the next 30 years have equal opportunities for jobs and equity in all aspects of our lives.

Considering a staycation, where in Guyana is your favourite place to unwind and recharge?

Anywhere that is close to nature, quiet and relaxing.