Today we’d like to introduce you to Isiah Harris.
Hi Isiah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Isiah, and I create custom rugs that are deeply rooted in street culture and artistic expression.
I grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and later moved out to California four years ago after studying industrial design in college. I took a chance on myself to see how far I could take my creative vision.
Basketball was my first love and was my outlet. My dad coached me and taught me discipline, work ethic, and how to stay locked in on anything I set my mind to. Playing in cities like Chicago and Milwaukee every weekend as a child, I developed a real love for this urban culture including the art, the energy, the rawness surrounding everything.
Art has always been a part of who I am. I’ve been drawn to street art and streetwear since I was young, and I’ve explored different forms of expression throughout the years. When I came across custom rugs on social media, it sparked something. I saw untapped potential—an art form that blended design, culture, and individuality. Two years ago, I went all in, and it’s been changing my life ever since.
From doing shows, building inventory, and obsessing over the craft, to now seeing people’s reactions when they receive their own custom piece—it’s been a wild ride that I didn’t see coming. What started as an idea became a passion and a purpose. I do this not just for myself, but to inspire others to tap into their creativity too.
Lately, I’ve been connecting with up-and-coming brands that align with the street culture vibe, and I’m proud to now have work featured in shops along Melrose Ave. Los Angeles has shown me so many different walks of life and I’m thankful for having the opportunity to spend my youth here, I plan to keep growing here until the next chapter of my life taking on New York City.
This is just the beginning. I want to change how we view art and remind people that there are no limits to what we can create. If you share that dream-chasing mindset and a love for culture, you’re already part of the vision.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I first started, I was honestly a little discouraged. Rug making isn’t as easy as it looks. I had to learn the process of something I’ve never seen before, and there were moments where it was frustrating and disheartening. But after a few failed attempts, I finally found my rhythm. From that point on, I became obsessed with perfecting the craft and it soon became all I could think about.
My first event opened up a whole new world. I was stepping into something I’d never been part of before, and the criticism came from all directions. It was tough at first, but instead of letting it break me, I used it as fuel. It pushed me to sharpen my skills, show up prepared, and keep raising the bar for myself. Learning that if you stay comfortable for too long that’s where your dreams will go to die, it’s the discomfort that will teach you the most and will always keep you pushing for more.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that building something meaningful takes time. You can’t just wait for people to come to you—you’ve got to go out, market yourself, and prove your value. That’s been a huge shift in mindset for me. This journey hasn’t just taught me about the rug game—it’s taught me about business, self-discipline, who I am as a person, and the potential I’m still just starting to tap into.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
By profession, I work in the hospitality industry as a valet and bellman. It’s a field I’ve genuinely come to love. My journey started at the iconic Stanley Hotel in Colorado famous for inspiring The Shining. That’s where I first fell in love with hospitality. There’s something powerful about the people you meet, the conversations you have, and the growth that comes from being in that environment.
From there, I moved to now work at a historic resort, Omni La Costa. Being surrounded by history and learning from my elders, I am grateful to be apart of something that inspires greatness and success. Working in places with such rich history has given me not just experience, but perspective. I get to meet people from all over the world, drive luxury cars, and interact with high-end clientele which gives me a preview of the life I’m working toward.
What I’m most proud of is that I’ve never let fear hold me back. I’ve taken chances, moved cities, started over, and pushed myself outside my comfort zone. I’ve had help and guidance along the way, and I’m truly grateful for all of those around me. That’s something I’ll always carry with me.
What I believe sets me apart humbly is my mindset. I’m relentless when it comes to chasing what I envision for myself. I don’t let the small setbacks get to me, I embrace the struggle and see the beauty in the grind. I believe in going out and getting what’s mine doing it with all humility, gratitude, and hunger for growth.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I believe everyone has a vision—and I’m here to bring that to life. No two rugs I make are the same. Whether it’s a highly detailed design or a clean, simple business logo, I can tailor each piece to fit your unique style or brand.
I love collaborating with like-minded creatives—barbershops, sneaker stores, tattoo shops, small businesses, and anyone out there chasing their own dream. If you’ve got an idea, I want to help turn it into something tangible.
You can find me on all social media platforms, but the best way to connect is through Instagram: @culturecontrol_. Shoot me a message I’m always down to work with people who are passionate about what they do, turning their own visions into something real.
Pricing:
- My rugs start at 80-1000 depending on what you want done. I can make regular cotton rugs for making your personal living space unique ad tailored to you.
- I can also make wool rugs for living room spaces with a bigger surface area to make living spaces pop and be the topic of discussion when people enter you home.
- I can make more than rugs these can be wall pieces to make your walls stand out and make simple or complex designs
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Culturecontrolsd.com
- Instagram: Culturecontrol_
- Facebook: Culturecontrolsd
- Youtube: Culturecontrolsd
- Other: TikTok @culturecontrolsd
