Meet Benjamin Baker

Where LOVE Began

In the vibrant city of Riverside, a twenty-year-old artist named Benjamin Baker has been weaving a thread of creativity and positivity. Currently a junior at California State University Channel Islands, Benjamin's artistic journey traces back to his roots in Riverside, where his love for art began to blossom.

It all started during his junior year at Riverside Polytechnic when Benjamin conceived the idea of creating LOVE stickers. "My idea was simple, to spread love wherever I go, and to whoever I meet", Benjamin proclaims. These stickers became a physical manifestation of his affection for the world, eliciting smiles and connecting people across the town.

Benjamin's artistic passion, ever-evolving, led him to explore various avenues of creativity. Drawing on clothing became his canvas, attracting commissions from friends at school. Recognizing the impermanence of drawings on clothes, he decided to invest in an embroidery machine. This marked the inception of LOVE clothing, with the iconic "box love" embroidery design adorning every piece. Soon, custom orders poured in from family and friends, prompting him to transform his passion into a small business.

Today, Benjamin's venture involves recycling clothing, infusing them with his love, and selling them at markets, leaving a positive impact on his community. Benjamin has showcased his creations at the downtown Riverside Art Walk many times, and he has expanded his reach to markets in Camarillo and Santa Barbara while away at school. His dream is to own a LOVE shop, a haven for recycled creations, including custom guitar straps and tote bags, and one day, produce the clothing himself.

In high school, Benjamin showcased his athletic prowess in Boys Swimming, earning a spot on the varsity team in his junior and senior years. Music is another facet of his life, having learned to play the guitar in fifth grade, becoming a constant source of joy and inspiration. However, his true passion lies in skateboarding—an activity that not only provides him with a unique sensation but also brings friends together, leaving an indelible mark on his artistic endeavors. Family plays a crucial role in Benjamin's life, with his mom, Amy Baker, guiding him in the Love shop and imparting sewing skills. His dad, Phil Baker, affectionately known as "Tiki Phil," collaborates on Love designs and assists in market endeavors. Benjamin's older brother, Philip Baker, adds to the family dynamic, by working at Disneyland.

As Benjamin continues to sew the path of artistic expression, his love-infused creations and unwavering passion create a future where the LOVE brand stands as a testament to his dedication and positive impact on the world and his community.