The Simple Good

Priya Shah is an artist, world traveler, model, speaker and the Founder & Executive Director of The Simple Good. Her Artwork is inspired by poetry, acts of humanity and her family's heritage in East Africa & India to bridge understanding and dialogue on the inherent universal connection we all share as humans.

The Simple Good means just that – noticing the simple, good things that surround each of us, every day and motivate us to be the best versions of ourselves. Show your support for The Simple Good and quietly encourage everyone you see to find the simple good in their lives by wearing this tee. Positivity is contagious – make it go viral!  

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs. 

This "Beauty In Everything" Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Precious D., from Hyde Park. Check out her meaning of #thesimplegood below!

My ‘simple good’ is to find the beauty in everything because it allows us to appreciate the little things. My ‘simple good’ was inspired by a conversation I had with a friend about the importance of keeping a positive mindset and finding beauty in all situations. I depicted my ‘simple good’ in my art by making the picture focus on the beauty in the photo. I wanted the picture to seem a little more dramatic and make the flowers pop more as that’s the beauty that came out of the photo for me. I plan on using my meaning of the ‘simple good’ to improve my community and change the world by teaching and showing others to always find the beauty in things even in a world of negativity. This is important to me because nowadays there is so much negativity and a lot of the time we try to sit and dwell on things we can’t change. Instead we can find the good or beauty of a situation even when it doesn’t work in our favor. 

- Precious D., 10th Grade, Hyde Park, Chicago 

Our Limited Edition TSG x Kayla Mahaffey x Chicago Bulls collab t-shirt was created for our 8th Annual Hunt for Good Fundraiser to support TSG Mindfulness-based Youth Art Programs. 

Artwork by Nationally renown Chicago-based Artist, Kayla Mahaffey. Kayla's design has a fiery vigor to it, to represent the determination it takes to play the game of basketball. Her artworks illustrate a transitional period of overcoming hardships and finding new life pathways. Her design for this t-shirt borrows from that idea, by keeping 'simple good' themes like imagination, determination, growth and resilience alive.

All proceeds go towards TSG Social Emotional Learning based Youth Art Residency Programs to empower and embolden the possibility of our youth to become positive activists to change our world.

*Please note that v-necks run a size small; please order a size up!

Dark Gray Color Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt

Introducing our limited edition TSG 10 Year Themed Long Sleeves! Our super soft long sleeve tee was created to celebrate our 10 year anniversary and to recognize the simple good that exists all around our city! Grab this limited edition long sleeve today!

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs. 

This "La Paix Et L'amour" Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador,  Bienvenue B .  from Rogers Park. Check out her meaning of #thesimplegood below!

Original Artist Statement in French (La Paix Et L'amour)

Mon bien simple est la paix et l'amour parce que j'aime vivre dans la paix. Mon bien simple a été inspiré par l'art parce que j'aime peidre. J'ai représenté mon bien simple dans mes œuvres d'art par en peigmant un symbol. J'ai l'intention d'utiliser mon sens de bien simple pour améliorer ma communauté et changer le monde par la paix parce que c'est bien d'etre en paix. C'est important pour moi parce que le fais de vivre les gens heureux me rond aussi heureux. Une bonne question simple que vous poseriez aux autres est : Pourquoi les gens m'aime pas faire la paix?

English Translation (Love and Peace) 

My simple good is peace and love because I like to live in peace. My simple good was inspired by art because I love to paint. I have represented my simple good in
my artwork by painting a symbol. I intend to use my meaning of simple good to improve my community and change the world through peace because it is good to be at peace. It's important for me because having happy people makes me happy too. A good simple question you would ask others is: Why don't people like me to make peace?

- Bienvenue B., Age 13, Rogers Park, Chicago 

We're so excited to announce our limited edition @thesimplegood x @vietfive T-shirt Drop! Designed by Tuan Huynh - Founder of @ChicagoPeace and Owner of @VietFive - this T-shirt is inspired by Logan M., a Hyde Park student from The Simple Good’s Youth Art Program.

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs. 

This "Small Beautiful Moments" Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Jazleen C., from Wicker Park. Check out her meaning of #thesimplegood below!

My 'simple good' was inspired by small beautiful moments. I took it when I was walking with my Grandma and 7 dogs. Even with the chaos (I am sure you are imagining by walking 7 dogs), I saw this sunset and wanted to capture the moment. I plan on using my meaning of the simple good to improve my community and change the world by pausing to know that it's important to see beautiful things, even when things a busy! 

-Jazleen C , 6th Grade, Wicker Park, Chicago 

We are now selling our TSG 'City of Big Dreams' Themed Long Sleeves! Our super soft long sleeve tee will bring back the nostalgia of our iconic annual arts celebration that brings together the City to inspire us to dream! Grab this limited edition long sleeve today!

"Stay Dreaming" written down length of sleeve

"My ‘simple good’ is BLM.  I choose this simple good because this is happening a lot to repeating BLM and is not right because we need to respect people who are different colors. My ‘simple good’ was inspired to respect people with dark skin. I depicted my ‘simple good’ in my artwork by going like some people saying BLM.  I plan on using my meaning of the ‘simple good’ to improve my community and change the world by showing people the BLM.  This is important to me because I feel bad that people are not respecting Black people. THANK YOU! A simple good question I would ask others is: Why do they have to be rude to Black people?" 

- JUAN V., LITTLE VILLAGE

Unisex Lightweight Crewneck | Independent Co. 

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select 5 students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs. 

This “Inner Peace" Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Kimberlyn B.  from Kilbourn Park. Check out her meaning of #thesimplegood below!

My simple good is inner peace. It is very important to take time to care for ourselves and nature can play a big role in our life to get peace. My 'simple good' was inspired by a rainy and gloomy day. I showed my simple good to show the refreshment a picture of nature can give you just by looking at it. This is important to me because when I am overwhelmed or stressed out I go out for a walk. I sometimes try to appreciate those quiet moments especially when my house tends to be very loud most of the time. I plan on using my meaning of the simple good to improve our community by reminding everyone that taking a break is not being lazy, it's self love. A simple good question I would ask others is: Where do you find your inner peace?

- Kimberlyn B., 11TH GRADE, Kilbourn Park, Chicago

“My simple goods are sunsets, winter and Harold's fried chicken. I love chicken because it is so good and delicious. I love Chicago because even though it is violent it has many other beautiful qualities.” - Ajia, Auburn Gresham, Chicago This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for both men and women. All items are considered Final Sale unless the product is defective. 

This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for both men and women.

• All items are considered Final Sale unless the product is defective. 
• 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (heather colors contain polyester)
• Fabric weight: 4.2 oz (142 g/m2)
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
• Side-seamed

Size guide

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select 5 students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs. 

This "Paz en La Villita" Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Brisa A.  from Little Village. Check out her meaning of #thesimplegood below!

My ‘simple good’ is Paz en La Villita because we need peace in La Villita because there is a lot of danger. My ‘simple good’ was inspired by the shootings in La Villita which can cause a lot of disaster with the families who just lost a member. I showed my simple good in my artwork by describing how people want peace instead of violence. I plan on using my meaning of the ‘simple good’ to improve my community and change the world by having more peace in La Villita and stopping violence. This is important to me because gun violence is a daily tragedy affecting the lives of individuals around the world. More than 500 people die every day because of violence committed with firearms. A simple good question I would ask others is: Is there a cure for violence?

- Brisa A., 6TH GRADE, Little Village, Chicago

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select 5 students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs. 

This "Equality" Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Deshawn F.  from Roseland. Check out his meaning of #thesimplegood below!

My ‘simple good’ is equality because I believe that people should be treated fair and have equal opportunities no matter their race, age, or even sexual preference. My ‘simple good’ was inspired by the fact that treating others inappropriately/or discriminating against them based on their beliefs. I plan on using my meaning of the ‘simple good’ to improve my community and change the world by changing others ideals that have been drilled into them by others. I say drilled because one doesn't just decide to discriminate against another. Something has to lead up to that moment or someone has influenced them into that mindset. Your beliefs shouldn't override what they like to do and what makes them happy in life. A simple good question I would ask others is: What thing in the world do you believe should be changed/fixed?

- Deshawn F., 10TH GRADE, Roseland, Chicago

Ever since his studies of Sociology and human behavior, White has been inspired by the ways in which one can capture truth visually. He loves the challenge of taking the consumer beyond just seeing the art - he believes they should feel it. His voice is profound and thoughts are intellectual, providing a path to follow for young people of the next generation. His confidence and commitment to his craft is inspiring as he embraces his function in society to document the history of connected experiences through art. 

As a young boy, the thought of mastering various artistic practices fascinated him but he never truly immersed himself in visual art. White grew up in an athletic home - with both of his parents being collegiate athletes, it made sense he would aim to excel in that arena as well. His talent and commitment to athletics took him to the Chicagoland area where he took the football field for Northwestern University as a defensive back. In his Junior season, that came to a sudden end due to a medical retirement. The door to achieve in athletics closing is what allowed White embark on his creative journey in fine arts. The former Texas football recruit was brought to Chicago to be “Reborn” an artist. 

The impressive creations to which he gives life on the canvas are symbolic of true empowerment, often centered around his heritage as a young African American male. In White’s world of painting, there are elements and experiences that relate to everyone such as one of his favorite concepts, there being “beauty in the struggle.” However, as he’s evolved as an artist, White has found unique ways to not only empower those who are subjects of his work, but also spark immediate thought and emotion through visual storytelling. White’s paintings live in both small and large scales depending on which audiences he aims to reach. With both gallery wrapped executions and murals, he engages his consumers at different touch points so he can connect with both the contemporary and street art community. The versatility is what many of White’s followers find the most fascinating. 

To leave a lasting impression on his viewers, he uses bold primary hues that typically contrast the human subject. The palette strokes of either oils or acrylics provides a unique balance to his creations, allowing the artist to take a traditional fine painting approach and enhance it by introducing textures and abstract elements of typography to the canvas. White finds his inspiration on the energy of human experiences through the lens in which he sees the world. His love for consumer insights and understanding the depths of his subjects allows the work to embody a truth to create a cultural experience. The art exists for White’s mental wellness and happiness on his evolving journey. He aims to spread love and knowledge rooted in empathy and empowerment of the people. 

“My simple good is change, because change can be good and you can learn from it in a positive way. My simple good was inspired by the changes that I have been through that have made me a better person and friend. I depicted my simple good in my work by taking a photo of a little girl, who will eventually change into a grown woman. I plan on using the meaning of my simple good to inspire my community to make changes even if they are scared, and showing them that change can be good. This is important to me because change is necessary for growth, and for life.” 

— Andrea P., 9th Bronzeville

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select 5 students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs.

This TSG Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Aiden S. from  Little Village. Check out his meaning of #thesimplegood below!

"My ‘simple good’ is saving the earth because I know that many people don't throw away trash properly, and it ends up in the oceans. My ‘simple good’ was inspired by looking outside, and seeing lots of plastic bags flying around, or seeing bottled waters out on the sidewalk. I depicted my ‘simple good’ in my art by drawing my message using pencil and colored pencils. I plan on using my meaning of the ‘simple good’ to improve my community and change the world by showing people that we aren't properly throwing away our trash, and there isn't an “Earth B” for us. This is important to me because I want everyone to take care of our planet, not just your community. Again, we don’t have an Earth B. Thank you!"

- AIDEN S., 6th Grade, LITTLE VILLAGE, CHICAGO 

This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for both men and women.

Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt | Anvil 980

100% ring-spun, pre-shrunk cotton

•  All items are considered Final Sale unless the product is defective.

Size guide

Olusola "Shala." Akintunde is an Nigerian American contemporary artist, producer and pioneer in the medium of Solar Art; a discipline that seamlessly merges art and solar technology. He is primarily lauded for the creation of the poignant portrait series, Shala’s Seven Spoon and his groundbreaking solar murals and sculptures; particularly Shala’s Bronzeville Solar Pyramid.

www.byshala.com 

“My simple good is embracing my melanin because it’s really hard be a dark skinned woman in society nowadays. My simple good was inspired by seeing women on social media trying to change themselves. I depicted my simple good in my artwork by drawing beautiful black queens who know that their melanin is popping no matter what shape or size they are. I plan on using my meaning of the simple good to improve my community and change the world by bringing women together. So many women bring each other down on social media. We need to start empowering and appreciating each other.” 

 — Nia L., 12th Grade, East Side 

• • 4.2-ounce, 50/25/25 poly/combed ring spun cotton/rayon
  • 5/8" seamed collar
    
  • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
  • Side seamed
  • Double-needle sleeves and hem
  • Tubular

"My simple good is ‘there’s beauty in the struggle” because I want people to embrace the challenges they face. My simple good came from connections to people in Chicago who I see dealing with difficulties in their work and personal lives. I made a collage of people and quotes that relate to the beauty in the struggle. I plan on improving my community by helping people realize the good in seemingly bad neighborhoods and situations. This is important to me because many people fear obstacles, but if you find the beauty in them, you’ll see them as opportunities for growth."

—Aziz E., 12th Grade

Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt | Anvil 980

100% ring-spun, pre-shrunk cotton

Limited Edition TSG x Sentrock x Chicago Bulls collab t-shirt was created for our 7th Annual 'Hunt For Good' Fundraiser to support TSG Youth Art Programs. 

Artwork by Chicago-based Artist, Sentrock. Sentrock describes his masks as analogous to humanity: a person who is able to find or escape to their freedom by placing them in a different reality. His work presents undertones of hope, freedom and expression. All proceeds go towards TSG Social Emotional Learning based Youth Art Residency Programs to empower and embolden the possibility of our youth to become positive activists to change our world. 

Cream Color Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt 

Limited edition TSG X Chicago Bulls X Langston Allston short-sleeve unisex t-shirt for our 6th Annual 'The Hunt for Good' Fundraiser! 

Artwork done by Chicago x New Orleans Based Artist & TSG Friend, Langston Allston. Inspired by his beautiful mural on the Chicago Bulls' United Center! All proceeds go towards TSG Social Emotional Learning based Youth Art Residency Programs to empower and and embolden the possibility of our youth to generate the future leaders that will change our world. 

All Orders placed are PRE-SALE Orders Only. T-shirts will be shipped 2-3 weeks from point of purchase. Only 50 t-shirts available.

Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt | Anvil 980

100% ring-spun, pre-shrunk cotton

Each TSG Quote Tee is inspired by the meaning of the simple good of our students. Each year we select 5 students' messages of 'the simple good' to put on our quote tees for a limited series release. The tees represent the various communities we serve and are selected through a public vote in order to amplify the voices of our youth & support their TSG Youth Art Programs.

This TSG Tee is inspired by TSG Youth Ambassador, Joeal A., from Pilsen, Check out her meaning of #thesimplegood below!

"My ‘simple good’ is growth because I want to continue growing in different areas, but in a proper way. I don’t want to rush the process because in doing so I won’t end up with the results I’m seeking. My ‘simple good’ was inspired by the quote  "He Who Would Climb a Ladder Must Begin at the Bottom."  My ‘simple good’ is shown in my photo because when building a skyscraper you always start from the bottom to end with positive results. However, starting from the top is unrealistic and will have horrible results. Just like in real life, when you start something you have to take all the necessary steps to accomplish it. You can’t just start from the top while skipping all the proper steps to reach there. This also showcases my journey in growing without rushing things. I plan on using my meaning of the ‘simple good’ to improve my community and change the world by using my growth as a person to inspire my community to do better as a whole, and to show them it’s not impossible to achieve our goals. This is important to me because growing has always been a part of my life, and I hope to continue to grow as a person to help myself and those around me."

- JOEAL A., 11TH GRADE, HYDE PARK

This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for both men and women.

Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt | Anvil 980

100% ring-spun, pre-shrunk cotton

•  All items are considered Final Sale unless the product is defective.

Size guide

Phero is a Cultural Architect based in Chicago specializing in exclusive experiences, unique product, and original content. His goal is to impact a brand’s messaging, target audience, perception, and consumer loyalty. Dedicated to fusing artistry and culture with an emphasis on diversity.

“My simple good is nature, peace, and joy because feeling peaceful makes me calm, relaxed, and happy. My simple good was inspired by nature and laughter of my friends. I depicted this in my work by taking a photograph of flowers in a garden. I plan on using my meaning of the simple good to improve my community and change the world by spreading joy and peace. This is important to me because it makes me calm and gives me joy.” 

 —  Alex L., 6th Grade Little Village

• 400gsm Heavyweight Organic Cotton with brushed interior
• 100% organic cotton body and recycled poly ribbing comprising 20% of the garment
• Reverse flatlock stitching to reduce bulk and increase durability
• 4" wide, double folded, flat-knit side ribbing for added flexibility
• Adjustable drawstring hood with front kanga pocket
• Tear away neck labels for customization
• Standard Fit
• Pre-shrunk and treated to ensure minimal shrinkage

Grab a TSG Bracelet and help spread positive vibes by passing one onto someone who has shown you an act of 'the simple good' in your life.

Each bracelet is made of lava stone beads (provides energies of strength & courage) and sandal wood beads (protects from negative energies) and has a beautifully engraved silver pendant. Each bracelet sold helps support TSG Youth Art Programming focused on mindfulness and social emotional learning.

"My simple good that we are better together. This means that we as people can work together and accomplish more things together. My artwork expresses a social issue by showing people around the planet earth holding hands. We all should care about each other so that we could get more things done. My artwork can impact the Little Village community by showing people helping each other. We need to help clean up our community and get rid of all the gun violence. The Rwanda students will see that we are from the same planet so we are equal are we can take care of the planet together. Even through we are far away and of a different race we are we should care about one another and our world."

Ivan C., 7th Grade, Little Village, Chicago

A strategically placed accent can bring the whole room to life, and this pillow is just what you need to do that. What's more, the soft, machine-washable case with the shape-retaining insert is a joy to have long afternoon naps on.

• All items are considered Final Sale unless the product is defective. 
• 100% polyester case and insert
• Hidden zipper
• Machine-washable case
• Shape-retaining polyester insert included (handwash only)

Introducing our limited edition TSG 10 Year Themed Long Sleeves! Our super soft long sleeve tee was created to celebrate our 10 year anniversary and to recognize the simple good that exists all around our city! Grab this limited edition long sleeve today!

You can now purchase our 2nd Edition of The Simple Good Art Activity Book!

The Simple Good Art Activity Book synthesizes our Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Mindfulness-based curriculum into a printed art activity coloring book! Our art activity book is packed with mindfulness meditations, thought-provoking journal prompts and captivating coloring pages created by some of Chicago's most notable artists. Each page challenges readers to grow in self-awareness, mindfulness, and to understand their meaning of 'the simple good'. Just like our students in the classroom, readers will take a journey in identifying positivity in their lives and their communities, developing an understanding of how they can use their 'simple goods' to change the world. 

Your book purchase sponsors one book for a TSG student in need! To increase your impact and get even more books into the hands of the students who need them most, please consider donating here.

Thank you to Allstar Press , Chicago Bulls and the following 23 (in Chicago fashion-Go BULLS) contributing artists for helping bring our 2nd SEL Art Activity book to life:

HISTORY OF THE SIMPLE GOOD ART ACTIVITY BOOK BELOW:The first Simple Good SEL-based Art Activity Book (2020 launch) is a beautiful tool of hope that emerged during the pandemic as we realized that many of our communities did not have access to the internet to participate in our virtual programs. In response to the drastic inequities in mental health and education access in Chicago, we collaborated with artists from around the world to create a physical book with our SEL and Mindfulness-based curriculum. Within the first year of publishing we received 3,000 book requests from schools across Chicago. Today, The Simple Good's SEL-Based Art Activity Books (2020) continues to be used in the classrooms and by adults alike!

Our Limited Edition TSG x Kayla Mahaffey x Chicago Bulls collab t-shirt was created for our 8th Annual Hunt for Good Fundraiser to support TSG Mindfulness-based Youth Art Programs. 

Artwork by Nationally renown Chicago-based Artist, Kayla Mahaffey. Kayla's design has a fiery vigor to it, to represent the determination it takes to play the game of basketball. Her artworks illustrate a transitional period of overcoming hardships and finding new life pathways. Her design for this t-shirt borrows from that idea, by keeping 'simple good' themes like imagination, determination, growth and resilience alive.

All proceeds go towards TSG Social Emotional Learning based Youth Art Residency Programs to empower and embolden the possibility of our youth to become positive activists to change our world.

*Please note that v-necks run a size small; please order a size up!

Dark Gray Color Unisex Lightweight T-Shirt

Be the definition of #thesimplegood wherever you go by repping our TSG tote bag! A simple good embodies the spirit of positivity, it is an occurrence, object or person easily encountered that brings joy and promotes gratitude. When you carry this TSG tote bag, you spread the simple good wherever you go!

“My simple goods are sunsets, winter and Harold's fried chicken. I love chicken because it is so good and delicious. I love Chicago because even though it is violent it has many other beautiful qu