David Ben-David Talks About Sprayground and the Bag Industry
It’s been a quick two years for David Ben-David. Since starting Sprayground some two and a half
It’s been a quick two years for David Ben-David. Since starting Sprayground some two and a half years ago, the bag company has taken off to become a street favorite with its own cult following. Seen on the backs of sartorially-inclined urbanites across the country, Sprayground was part of the recent ‘bag renaissance’ of late, where bags – the backpack particularly – have been considered not only an accessory, but a canvas. With his roots in Miami’s notorious graffiti scene, co-signs from street art legends in New York, and even more ambition, it’s safe to say that Sprayground is still on the rise. Here we talk with founder and designer David Ben-David about the current state of the bag industry, his brand’s role in the bag game, and future ambitions of Sprayground. Check out Sprayground‘s web page for more information.
About Sprayground and defining the brand…
How would you describe Sprayground?
The rebel bag company.
What was the reasoning/big push behind starting Sprayground?
I traveled the globe with just a black backpack. When it was time to buy a new bag, I was sick of the obvious. A light bulb went off. One gift I knew I had was an eye for edgy ideas and I needed a backpack that would kick off the rebel of all bag companies, because the current brands were too boring for me.
How has your job changed since the start of the brand?
Insane. It’s been only two and a half years and it’s been nonstop. It’s a blessing from God and feels like a dream. I fly around the world making business deals, travel to factories to make my ideas reality, and work with some of the top A-list celebrates in Hollywood, all because of one backpack that changed the game.
How would you define the brand as it stands within the industry and against other bag brands?
We’re definitely seen as a cutting edge, innovative brand. Prior to us the category of bags was static. After I dropped the ‘Hello My Name Is’ and ‘Money Stacks’ backpacks, we became an eyeopener to other companies to show consumers were starting to take their bags more seriously. Kids collect Sprayground; each bag is limited and never produced again.
It’s edgy fashion and sleek functionality and we broke through in a market no one cared about. The boutiques we sell to never had space or displays to hold bags and they have now have integrated, full sections for them. I can proudly take credit for that.
“I traveled the globe with just a black backpack. When it was time to buy a new bag, I was sick of the obvious. A light bulb went off. One gift I knew I had was an eye for edgy ideas and I needed a backpack that would kick off the rebel of all bag companies, because the current brands were too boring for me.”
David Ben-David speaks about the reason behind starting Sprayground
The progression of the brand…
What do you want to achieve with the brand?
To become a staple bag company with a focus on design, creativity, and functionality that’s not afraid to break down barriers in the fashion world and have a chill time doing it. And that every day journeys begin with Sprayground.
What are some of the limitations you currently possess?
Flying. I f*cking hate it. Even though I travel so much, it makes me feel human because I’m daydreaming and thinking of designs and being creative all day.
How do you pick and choose the people you work with?
Simple. They have to be edgy, open-minded and believe in the dream.
How do their values align with that of Sprayground?
If the product speaks to them, then they’re a right fit. The product is the heart of the company.
What can we expect going forward on the product side?
Kill it in bags first, then I’ll let you know.
“To become a staple bag company with a focus on design, creativity, and functionality that’s not afraid to break down barriers in the fashion world and have a chill time doing it. And that every day journeys begin with Sprayground.”
David Ben-David speaks about what he wants to achieve with Sprayground
