We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jamie Kelly . Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Jamie , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is a normal day like for you right now?
Normally I get out of work( I work overnights) I hit the gym, then head back to the shop to start my dad of welding until about 3:00 where I then pick up my daughter and hang out until my wife gets home.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name’s Jamie Kelly, and I’m the creator behind StreeTTrendZ Metal Art. I started this brand because I’ve always been obsessed with car culture, fabrication, and art. What makes StreeTTrendZ unique is that every piece I make is 100% original, hand-crafted, automotive-inspired, and built with the same passion you’d put into a custom ride. From piston-skull designs to hot rod and lowrider themes, I try to capture the attitude and creativity of the scene in every cut, grind, and weld.
What began as a small hobby in the shop after work, has grown into a brand that people across the automotive culture connect with — because it’s real. No shortcuts, no mass production, just original metal art that represents the customers request.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I’d say the relationship with my dad. My dad has always been a responsible, hard working respected guy who goes above and beyond what he has to do. I’ve always looked up to him and hoped to one day be the kind of man he is. He has been and ideal role model, teaching me hard work, discipline , and respect, He’s taught me to always try something , and if you don’t know how to do it, learn. He also been an amazing role model when it comes to showing me a perfect example of a friend, husband and a dad. My dad one my #1 supporter when I started doing this and offered to help me in anyway I needed and still does and I greatly appreciate that.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I had switched jobs. I had lost a lot of the Bennifits of welding, materials and a shop when I was at the dealership. I went from welding In a shop , using supplies and tools there, to welding in the yard and having to buy all my own stuff. Welding outside with limited power , space and parts was tough. Then Covid happen and the car shows were canceled. That’s where I made most my sales.
When this happen I made the shift from in person sales, to focusing on my online sales. Sales began to pick up greatly and I was able to save enough for when our dream house came available we got it. I now had my own house with my own big shop out back in the same property.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I believe it is. I try to stay very open and honest with what I post. I keep people up to date with my real life situations, my family and what I’m doing. I understand with social media people follow me for entertainment, but I’m not an actor. I keep it 100% and don’t post just to go viral, or get likes, I post real stuff. I post the stuff I made and how I felt making it. I believe people appreciate genuine people over fake stuff.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would stop working as much. I would take that time saved and spend it with family. I would make more time to sit with my daughter and wife. I would work less and spend more time with loved ones. The work is good because it helps pay the bills and allows us the means to do things we enjoy. But time with people we love means a lot more and you realize that when you loose someone and then wish you had reached out more, or made more of an effort, or hung out one last time. I never want my daughter to look back and think “all dad did was work.” I’m fine with her thinking I worked a lot, but I want her to know I also did what I could to give her my time and help give her a great childhood and a wonderful household.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://StreeTTrendZmetalart.com
- Instagram: @streettrendz_metal_art
- Twitter: StreeTTrendZmetalart
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/streettrendzmetalart
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JamieInBoston
- Other: https://streettrendz.etsy.com/
