Nestled somewhere between the eclectic chimney pots and the gritty high-rise flats of London’s Eastend, there once existed a small, dusty attic. Lit only by the glow of an old desk lamp, this attic was the birthplace of magic. Here, amongst a collection of notepads and chewed marker pens, Colin ‘Choodie’ Hood breathed life into what would become the iconic brand, Growl & Grandeur.
The Genesis of a Legend
Colin Hood, affectionately known as Choodie, has origins shrouded in urban myth. Some say his journey to world domination began in Dagenham, a village famed for being Europe’s largest council estate. Growing up in this quintessentially cockney locale, Hood’s youth was a whirlwind of inky fingers and graffiti-embellished estates. He honed his artistic skills amidst the hustle and bustle, dodging Burberry-adorned Staffordshire bull terriers and perfecting tricks on his battered Raleigh Burner. When not grazing his knees or breaking his teeth, Hood would wield his pencil with the precision of a demon barber’s cut-throat, drawing on everything from scraps of paper to other people’s property.
A Detour into Mainstream Society
In a bid to find acceptance in mainstream society and atone for past misdeeds, Hood ventured into the world of advertising, adopting the title of Art Director—a flouncy term for Graphic Designer. However, the corporate world was a far cry from the raw creativity that filled his sketchbooks. To counter this, Hood started Growl & Grandeur as a small, independent project. It was a creative escape from his day job, allowing him to return to the graffiti, monsters, cars, and girls in small pants that fueled his passion.
The Essence of Growl & Grandeur
So, what does Growl & Grandeur actually mean? Growl represents the low, gruff, menacing sound made by an animal, while Grandeur signifies magnificence, nobility, and greatness of character. These contrasting words embody the essence of the brand—a blend of pride, a rebellious bark at authority, and an unabashed love for all things hound. After all, dogs are, as Hood puts it, “bloody awesome!”
The Rise of an Underdog
From its humble beginnings with four screen-printed t-shirts and a Facebook page, Growl & Grandeur has grown into a respected lifestyle brand within the graffiti, skating, BMX, and VW communities. It stands as a testament to the rise of the underdog, inspiring others to believe that with hard work and stubbornness, anything is possible.
However, success brought new challenges. The cramped attic space became too small to contain the burgeoning brand. Boxes of stock replaced the last office chair, leaving only a 1×1 meter square of standing space. It was time to expand.
A New Chapter in Newquay
In search of a lifestyle that echoed the brand’s inspiration, Hood and Growl & Grandeur packed up a lorry and headed to Newquay, the UK’s surfing capital. Surrounded by surf and skate culture, inspiring coastlines, and countryside, the move to Newquay allowed the brand to thrive. The new, luxurious studio (complete with heating) provided ample space for creativity, designated storage, and proper chairs for pen-chewing sessions.
Crafting Quality for the Stylish
Today, Growl & Grandeur is dedicated to painstakingly designing the finest quality apparel for the stylish people of our planet. Hood extends heartfelt thanks to those who support the brand, acknowledging that their warmth and awesomeness keep the creative fires burning—and the hounds in premium doggy kibble.
Colin ‘Choodie’ Hood’s journey from the inky estates of Dagenham to the luxurious studios of Newquay is a story of creativity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the underdog. As Growl & Grandeur continues to grow, it remains a beacon of inspiration for all who dare to dream and create.
