Meet Omar “chilly-o” Mitchell | Streetwear Pioneer, Photographer, Cultural Architect, Creative Youth Mentor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Omar “chilly-o” Mitchell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Omar “Chilly-O”, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Our company is deeply rooted in creating a positive social impact, especially within underserved communities. Through initiatives like The Invisible Army and Wheelz Up ATL, we focus on mentoring at-risk youth, ages 11-23, helping them transition from potentially negative environments into careers where they can thrive.

We also invest in the creative economy, offering support to young designers, artists, and entrepreneurs. Whether it’s by providing free photo shoots for aspiring creatives or organizing BMX and stunt shows to inspire youth, we aim to foster empowerment and self-sufficiency.

Beyond that, we collaborate with organizations like Invest Atlanta and community leaders to fund programs that strengthen the ecosystem of creative industries in Atlanta and beyond.

At our core, we believe in building bridges—whether it’s helping young people discover their potential, guiding creatives to the next level, or contributing to violence prevention through mentorship and resources. Our impact isn’t just about what we create but also the lives we help transform.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a reflection of culture, community, and evolution. What sets me apart is my ability to blend fine art aesthetics with street culture, creating work that feels both refined and raw. Whether it’s through my self-titled clothing line, photography, or community-focused initiatives, my art tells stories that connect people and inspire them to see themselves in a bigger picture.

What I’m most proud of is the impact my work has had on others. I’ve helped young people transition from challenging environments to thriving careers and opened doors for countless creatives to find their voice. I’m especially excited about The Invisible Army and Wheelz Up ATL, initiatives that provide mentorship and opportunities to at-risk youth while using art and action sports as a catalyst for change.

Getting to where I am today has been far from easy. Growing up in a blue-collar environment, I learned early on the value of hard work and resilience. My journey has been filled with challenges, from breaking into competitive creative spaces to navigating financial constraints. But I embraced these obstacles as opportunities to innovate and push myself further. I learned the importance of adaptability, building relationships, and staying true to my vision, even when the road was tough.

One lesson I hold close is that success isn’t just about what you create—it’s about the impact you leave behind. That’s why I mentor and collaborate with others, ensuring that the next generation can build on the foundation I’ve helped lay.

What I want the world to know is that my brand and story are about more than just me—they’re about community, growth, and legacy. For over 20 years, I’ve been creating, building, and giving back, and every piece of art, every project, and every connection is rooted in my belief that we’re stronger together. My story is proof that with grit, passion, and purpose, you can build something that lasts and truly matters.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
rst off, I get these calls every day. People always want to know where to go, what to eat, and how to truly experience Atlanta. I pride myself on knowing where the emerging culture is. But here’s the thing—it depends on who we’re talking about. Are they Gen Z, Millennial, or Gen X? Even though I don’t like categorizing people, it does make a difference in the vibe.

Food First: Because Nobody Has Fun Hungry

Let’s start with food. My first suggestion? Wings. Pending dietary restrictions, of course. If you’re in Atlanta and not eating wings, are you even trying? I like taking people to real Atlanta spaces—places where you can feel the culture and not just see it on the menu.

American Deli – A classic, don’t argue.

Q Time – Solid soul food spot.

Mr. Everything (West End) – The portions? Ridiculous. The flavors? Even more ridiculous.

BBQ in the Lacura parking lot or off Bankhead Hwy – If you know, you know.

Now, I don’t really do fancy Buckhead cuisine because, to be honest, I feel like that stuff is overpriced. I’d rather take folks to a dive bar where the food is cheap, the staff are conscious about what they’re serving, and most importantly—creatives run the kitchen. A few go-to’s:

Manny’s

Carroll Street Cafe

Anywhere that looks slightly sketchy but has five-star Yelp reviews

Where to Vibe: Because Sitting Still Isn’t an Option

Atlanta has lost a lot of great dance venues, but that doesn’t mean the city isn’t still moving. Here’s where I like to hang:

If I want to dance:

Buteco – Great energy, solid music.

El Malo – Speaks for itself.

Rocksteady – A staple.

Lions Lounge – You’ll thank me later.

If I’m feeling divey:

Our Bar – True to its name, it belongs to the people.

Star Bar – If you know, you know.

Chairs – Don’t sleep on it.

529 EAV – Live music done right.

Westside Motor Lodge – A hidden gem.

If I want live music:

Peters St. Station – Culture-heavy.

Gallery 992 – A proper vibe.

If I’m feeling mainstream Atlanta:

RNB Parties with Bryan Michael Cox & Keith – Quality vibes.

Suite Lounge – A little swank, a lot of fun.

If I’m in a trap mood:

Lacura – Say less.

Esco Lounge (2 Chainz’s spot) – Self-explanatory.

Trap City Cafe (T.I.’s clubhouse with DJ MLK) – If you know, you know.

Retired from strip clubs but…
Look, Strokers and Magic City are like family. Let’s leave it at that.

If I’m feeling alternative:

Raves with DJ Sugarice & Jag – Off the grid energy.

The Supermarket – A whole different world.

Pisces (Ree de la Vega’s spot) – Haven’t made it there yet, but my intentions are pure.

International flavors:

Lions Lounge – A global experience.

Rum Punch Brunch – Self-explanatory.

Boum Boum (Buford Hwy) – Atlanta’s little slice of international life.

For Latin vibes? N3dos on Buford.

One thing about me? I do NOT discriminate against a good vibe. Atlanta can be very segregated socially, but I don’t subscribe to that. If I can learn something new about a culture, I’m there.

Keeping Up with Me? Good Luck.

By Thursday, whoever I’m hosting is usually exhausted and actively ducking my calls. Very few people can match my energy levels as I move through the city. But trust, the security, promoters, club owners, and DJs all know me. And if the bass isn’t hitting, they already know I’m yelling, “Turn the bass up!”

Oh, and I throw my own events too:

DANZ Practice (pronounced “DANZ”) – Because some of y’all need it.

Birthday & Holiday parties at Atlantucky (Nappy Roots Brewery) – Always a vibe.

2025: Moving Different

Look, I know I’m not normal when it comes to socializing in Atlanta. Everybody knows this. But in 2025, I’m switching it up—acting my age, whatever that means, and sticking to small room events. Why? Because connection hits different in intimate settings. Catch me where the energy is right, the people are real, and the bass is always turned all the way up.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
“Absolutely, there are so many people and organizations who deserve credit for where I am today. First and foremost, my family has been my rock—instilling in me a strong work ethic and the courage to chase my dreams, even when the path wasn’t clear. My grandfather, a construction worker, and my grandmother, a social worker, taught me the value of hard work and giving back to the community, which shaped a lot of who I am.

I also want to shout out to my creative community in Atlanta. From the BMX and skateboarding circles to the artists and designers I’ve collaborated with, their energy and support have been a driving force in everything I do. A special thank you to my Mother, my kids India Elle, Lae and Bae, Icon Will, Lurchero, Pretty Tony, Journey Brave and Big Boi and Family whose creativity and partnership over the years have been instrumental in shaping the vision and impact of my work.

Special recognition goes to the High Museum staff and The Dean Collection, Swizz and Alicia, and organizations like Invest Atlanta for believing in the power of creativity to make an impact. Lastly, the youth I’ve mentored deserve a huge shoutout. Watching them grow and succeed continues to inspire me to give my all every single day

Website: https://www.chilly-o.com

Instagram: chillyolovesyou