T Shirt Designer and Whimsical Abstract Artist

Eujin Kim Neilan of Uni-T is a T-shirt designer, and published children's book illustrator from Boston. Her whimsical abstract art, along with her story book illustration and T-shirt designs appeal to any gender and culture of all ages. This is her story...

"My career kicked off after I finished MFA in illustration at the Academy of Art in San Francisco. For the Masters thesis project, I illustrated a children's book which was published after completion of my project. While I was raising two beautiful children I have published four more books which have received many recognitions and awards.

However, because of self publishing and digital downloads I could no longer just rely on book publishing business. So, in my home studio in Natick, Massachusetts I created many original designs for "Uni-T" line of hand-printed t- shirts. Starting local and small, they sold at farmers and flea markets and crafts fairs. I am so thankful to have had such an amazing reception.

Two years ago, I was contacted by a Group Business Development Representative for the Natick Mall, and was asked if I would be interested in running a cart to sell my books and t- shirts. I was a bit hesitant at first, given that I would have to compete with immense national chain stores. However, after I finally opened a kiosk I realized that many customers seem to be happy and inspired to see my local products at the Mall and felt good about supporting a small business while also being able to have a one-on-one conversation with the artist who made the products they are buying at the Mall. Running a cart was not an easy task given the nature of my business. After selling all day and coming home at 10:00 at night I had to silkscreen more shirts to replace my inventory. Also before I go to work in the morning I need to iron each shirt I made the previous night to set the ink. Somedays I had to work from 6:00 am to 1:00 am.

After working night and day, a kiosk in the Natick Mall soon turned into my very own store called Uni-T! It has been my dream to open a shop/art studio where I can create and sell at the same time. I have been always had this romantic idea of "make & sell". Now, with so much encouragement and support from the Natick Mall I am so thrilled that my dream came true. I was able to open a store where I can silk screen my shirts and paint. Customers will be able to see what it takes to make a product they buy.

Now, Uni-T has grown into an art gallery that contains the work of about thirty different local artists along with my clothing line, books, and original artwork. Uni-T is a beautiful shop that is worth checking out because it is a combination of many different talents, passions and creations in unity.

Just 3 years ago I was selling my shirts in the flea market, hoping not to lose $15.00 I paid for the space. There are so many great artist/artisans out there struggling to make a living from their incredible talent and effort. I am grateful to show it can be more than just a dream."

Eujin Kim Neilan