Thoughtful design. Meaningful conversation.
EQNQ Studio began with a single T-shirt.
In 2025, I designed a shirt that read “ICE Detains, Pride Sets Free.” It reflected two parts of my identity that have always shaped how I see the world: being queer and being Mexican American.
At a time when anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-immigrant rhetoric felt impossible to ignore, I wanted to create something that celebrated the communities I love instead of giving more attention to the voices trying to tear them down.
That one design became EQNQ Studio.
Hi, I’m JC.
The first graphic tee I ever designed was for my first Pride when I was a sophomore in high school. I wanted a shirt inspired by Y Tu Mamá También. I couldn’t find one—and even if I could, I probably couldn’t have afforded it. So I cut a stencil out of cardstock, grabbed some fabric paint, and made my own.
Looking back, I didn’t know I was creating my first design. I just knew I wanted to wear something that felt like me.
That creative curiosity never left.
Today I’m an architect in Chicago. One of my greatest passions is designing spaces that feel welcoming, inclusive, and connected. I’ve been especially drawn to senior living, where thoughtful design can make a meaningful difference in everyday life.
Whether I’m designing a building or a tee, I’m drawn to the same idea: design can tell stories, build community, and make people feel something.
Why EQNQ?
Eso Que Ni Qué is one of those phrases that’s hard to translate because it’s more about the feeling than the words. Depending on the moment, it can mean “without a doubt,” “obviously,” or “that’s settled.”
Growing up, it always felt like a phrase of confidence.
That’s what I wanted this brand to represent.
Creating with conviction.
Celebrating who we are.
Standing behind what we believe.
Why Studio?
I chose the word Studio because I never wanted to limit where creativity could lead. Today that means apparel. Tomorrow it might be furniture, home goods, architecture, or something I haven’t even imagined yet.
The medium may change, but the purpose stays the same: creating thoughtful work that has something to say.
The Woke Collection
One of the most meaningful chapters of EQNQ has been collaborating with my friend Justin, better known as The Woke Ginger.
Together, we created the Woke Collection because we share a belief that creativity can build community, spark conversations, and support organizations making a real difference.
It’s a reminder that design can do more than make a statement. It can make an impact.
Thanks for being here.
Whether you found EQNQ because of a design that made you laugh, a cause you care about, or simply because something here felt like you, welcome.
What started with a hand-painted T-shirt, has become something much bigger than I ever imagined.
I have a feeling that this is only the beginning.
Eso Que Ni Qué.
