Urban Outfitters teamed up with designer and former UO display artist, Phil Leyesa for an exclusive graphic tee capsule collection. The collection will launch first at UO's store in Soho, New York on August 4th with Phil hosting the party that will include signature drinks and live DJ performance by Grabba Ranks.

Ahead of the launch, we sat down with Phil to learn more about his time at UO and how he's feeling about his exclusive tee collection.

Tell us a little bit about your background and how your brand PHILLLLLTHY came to be.
My name is Phillip Leyesa, I am 28 years old and currently living in Brooklyn, NY. PHILLLLLTHY was a nickname given to me while working as a display artist at UO. I would clock into work looking clean and spiffy and by the time I clocked out I would look "filthy". Sawdust all over my pants, glue stains on my shirts and paint on my arms/fingers. It's a cool play on words and I'm here for it.

You used to be a display artist here at UO – welcome back! Can you talk a little bit about your time here and how your role at UO influenced or shaped your creative pursuits?
I was hired as a seasonal sales associate then quickly worked my way up to other job positions. I became a display artist after realizing I'd rather build stuff than tag and fold clothes all day. I learned a lot while being a display artist and still use some of those skills I learned on the job till this day. I picked up a lot of knowledge for woodworking and how to use extremely intimidating power tools. I also grasped a better understanding of trial and error. If something doesn't work out, work around the problem and find another solution.

Favorite project you worked on at UO?
I worked on so many projects, it's hard to pick a favorite. I will say the most memorable project I've done was the Grillo's Pickles event. The event was the first event I got to do at my home store in Soho. With little to no time to set up the display I was able to get everything done with the help of other Display Artists in the area. Working with other Display artists within the company was by far my favorite part of the job. Fast forward to now, my event is taking place at the same location so it's really a full circle moment for me.

What was the design process for the collection?
I worked with a buddy and artist, DearStephan. He helped create the graphics come to life. I gave him the vibe and he killed it with the graphic design.

In addition to footwear and apparel, cars seem to take up a big place in your heart. How did you get into cars and what do you love about working on them?
My love for cars happened naturally because my friends were also into cars, working on cars and going to car meets is how we spent most of our time. I love the problem solving aspect of working on cars. If something doesn't work properly, you take your time to find and fix the problem. It's a very humbling experience.

Dream car?
My dream car would have to be a 1972 BMW 2002 tii. That car looks like a timeless masterpiece.

We’re big fans of your Shiba Inu, Bonsai. How did you land on the name?
I love BMWs and I love the art of bonsai. Bonsai and Bimmer were two names I knew I was going to use when I got a dog. Bonsai suits him better, if I get another dog their name will definitely be Bimmer.