Today we’d like to introduce you to Cherquentia Crawford.
Hi Cherquentia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m a creative entrepreneur and the founder of Tha Closet Studios, a multi-dimensional creative platform that began in 2016 and officially became an LLC in 2021. My work spans music production, visual storytelling, branding, and digital content creation. I don’t limit myself to one lane—I build across multiple creative spaces.
Before Tha Closet Studios, I operated under several ventures including CQ Productions, CQP Recording Studio, Blow Arch Designs, and independent interior design and event services. My work has included designing for homeowners, creating event experiences such as parties and weddings, as well as developing creative assets for various clients. Each of those experiences played a role in shaping what Tha Closet Studios is today.
That’s the reason behind the “S” in Studios. It represents more than just music or design—it reflects multiple creative disciplines coming together under one brand.
My background in Interior Design and Video Production from The Art Institute of Dallas also influences how I approach my work. I think visually, structurally, and creatively, which allows me to build not just projects, but full concepts and experiences.
Throughout my journey, I’ve worked with local artists, entrepreneurs, churches, and DISD teachers—supporting with flyers, classroom design setups, and creative materials—as well as nonprofit organizations across the DFW area. That experience has allowed me to stay connected to the community while continuing to grow creatively and professionally..
Currently, I’m continuing that growth with my 2026 project, expanding the ShawNova Arise universe and pushing creative boundaries even further through music, storytelling, and digital experiences
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road.
There have been a lot of challenges along the way—from ventures not working out, to losing equipment, to having to shut things down and start over more than once. One of the hardest parts was realizing I didn’t have the support I thought I would have, especially from people I had helped in the past.
Starting over was one of the biggest struggles. Going from trying to build something to being back at home, recording in a closet, was humbling and at times frustrating. It wasn’t the vision I had for myself, and it took a lot to push past that mentally.
Balancing life and responsibility was another challenge. There were times when I had to step away from building and focus on being present for my daughter, making sure she had what she needed first.
On top of that, building without major resources or a team meant I had to learn everything on my own—production, branding, business, and marketing—through trial and error.
But those challenges also forced me to grow. They taught me resilience, patience, and how to keep moving forward even when things don’t go as planned.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What I specialize in is creating with intention. Whether it’s music, visuals, or concepts, everything I develop is rooted in real experiences, emotion, and authenticity. I’m especially known for blending creativity with innovation, like developing ShawNova Arise—an AI artist that allows me to push boundaries and explore storytelling in a different way.
I’m known for being a multi-skilled creative with a strong foundation in both audio and visual work. My background includes audio engineering, graphic design, and music production, along with experience in event planning, interior decoration, and creative setup.
I’ve built a reputation for being hands-on and versatile—whether it’s engineering sound, designing visuals, creating beats, or bringing a space or event to life. I’m also known for giving back, volunteering my time and skills to support community efforts, including working with churches, nonprofits, and DISD teachers on creative projects.
What ties it all together is my ability to take an idea and turn it into something real. No matter the medium—audio, design, or environment—I focus on creating with purpose and delivering something meaningful.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to keep building, even without ideal circumstances. I’ve taken limited resources and turned them into a growing brand. Tha Closet Studios didn’t come from a perfect setup—it came from consistency, faith, and the decision to keep going.
What sets me apart is that I don’t create just to create—I build with purpose. I’m not following a traditional path, and I’m not trying to fit into one. I’m creating my own lane, combining music, visuals, and technology into something that reflects who I am and where I’m going.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I like best about the city is that it’s growing, especially in creative and digital spaces. There’s more visibility and opportunity developing in my industry than there was before, and that growth is encouraging to see.
What I like least is that, despite the growth, there’s still a lack of accessible opportunities and support for independent creatives in my field. It can be challenging to find the right connections, resources, and platforms locally.
Pricing:
- Graphic design services – starting at $75 per project
- Branding packages – starting at $250
- Visual content / video concepts – custom pricing
- Life Unfiltered) – pricing available upon request
- Voiceover services (commercials, narration, audiobooks) – starting at $75 per project
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shawnovaarise.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KeX6daaUM/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherquentia-crawford-6021a8a1
