ES-Q — a portrait of resilience: seated figure against a graffiti wall

Santa Monica, CaliforniaArt & Apparel

David Askew · Painter & Apparel Designer

From nothing,to something.

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The Story

Art you can wear — and a story you can feel.

ES-Q Apparel was born out of founder David Askew's personal experience of overcoming homelessness, financial hardship, and emotional struggles. In those years, he found art to be a source of solace, healing, and expression.

Combining his talents as a designer with his desire to empower others, David built a brand that offers not just stylish clothing, but powerful messages of hope and transformation. Every garment is a reminder: you can go from nothing to something.

— David Askew, Founder & Artist

Core Values

Five values that hold the whole brand together.

Empowerment

We believe in the transformative power of self-belief. Our clothing encourages wearers to embrace their inner strength and face life's challenges with resilience.

Creativity

Our designs are rooted in art, prayer, and creativity. We view every piece of apparel as an opportunity to express emotions, messages, and stories that resonate with our community.

Authenticity

ES-Q Apparel stands for authenticity — our designs are not just trends, but reflections of real-life experiences and meaningful narratives.

Community

We strive to create a community of like-minded individuals motivated by messages of hope and resilience. Together, we uplift each other through shared values.

Sustainability

As we grow, we aim to incorporate eco-friendly practices in our production, ensuring fashion can move toward sustainability without sacrificing quality or creativity.

Painter First—

Canvas Before Cloth—

From Nothing to Something—

Original Works—

Hope · Resilience—

Painter First—

Canvas Before Cloth—

From Nothing to Something—

Original Works—

Hope · Resilience—

Selected Paintings

The paintings behind the practice.

Every idea begins on canvas — painted by hand, then translated into the apparel. Enquire for available originals, prints and commissions.

5th & Crocker

Oil on canvas

Painting · 2025

Broken Angel

Oil on panel

Painting · 2025

Broken Angel II

Oil on panel

Painting · 2025

Perseverance

Oil on canvas · self portrait

Painting · 2025

Angel Watching Over Me

Oil on canvas panel

Painting · 2025

Thirsty

Oil on canvas panel

Painting · 2025

Wearable Extensions

The canvas, worn.

Each garment carries a piece of the paintings — messages of hope, resilience and transformation, made to be lived in.

Swim · Drown

Hoodie

No Rest for Tha Wicked

Hoodie

My World Been Heavy

Hoodie

See all apparel

Early Access

First to see every new drop.

Join the studio dispatch and be notified the moment a new painting, apparel release or limited-edition print goes live — before anyone else. No spam, just the work.