Nate Leisenring
I like to hit up Java's, sit outside, sip coffee, and enjoy the day.
Interview by Maria Gorre.
Published February 26, 2016.
What is your favorite part of living in Rochester?
That's a tough question. There's just so much, but I like the city of Rochester and I’m big on art and music, and we have a lot of that in the city. Eastman is a huge place for music, and we have a lot of creative people involved in the city.
Do you have any favorite Rochester spots?
My favorite spot would be Gibbs Street. I grew up down there, taking classes at Eastman. It really feels like home. I like to hit up Java's, sit outside, sip coffee, and enjoy the day. I run into a lot of people I know, and also meet new people.
What is your favorite time of day to hang out in the city?
Probably at night. I feel like it's the best time to explore the city for spots you’ve never seen before, and see what is really there in our city that you don’t see everyday. I like the nightlife downtown a lot, people going in and out and grabbing food. The vibe it gives off is nice.
What is your favorite day of the week?
I like Sundays. I feel like they're more relaxed. Saturdays get hectic, so Sunday is a day I can relax, enjoy scenery, and get some designs done. And it's the best day to relax with a week full of work just behind me.
Describe your dream Rochester day.
My dream day would be to hang out until nighttime, maybe hit some bars, and hang out with friends. Maybe grab some food. That's really it. It doesn’t take to much to entertain me.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood?
My favorite neighborhood is around where me and my friends grew up skateboarding, around the Mendon Drive area. I get very nostalgic going through there. So many memories and good times that took place in that neighborhood.
What is your personal coping mechanism for cold/gray weather?
I’ve always liked winter fashion the most, so the way I cope with cold, grey weather is to use that to get through day. I'll go out, and buy some new gear to help me get ready for the cold. I’m a heavy coffee drinker, so in the winter that helps a lot too.
What is your favorite Rochester memory?
My favorite memory would be the day that we got our first batch of T-shirts in for our brand, Hungry and Humble. Putting the design out and planning everything led to me being very anxious, and it was a stressful time. But it was good vibes from everyone that day, and everyone was happy with how they came out.
If Rochester was a food, what would it be?
Well, I think of cold, so if Rochester were a drink, it would be coffee, because cold and hot go together. And despite the cold and long winters, Rochester is a very lively city. There is a lot going on also, which goes with caffeine side of coffee.
Nate is a college student at SUNY Brockport, and also part of the Hungry and Humble clothing brand. Nate is the one that asked me if I would be the photographer for the company, which was awesome. I’ve known Nate since I was around 14-15, so we have been friends for some time now. Nate is big into music. I think its safe to say he loves jazz music the most, and I often listen to it when we're in the car together.
Interview by Stephen Luke
More selected projects
Ben Baker appreciates the inclusive and welcoming nature of Rochester’s music scene
INTERVIEW NO. 241
The Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford is something special for the region
INTERVIEW NO. 185
Eboni Jones loves how Rochester can feed you spiritually, creatively, and literally.
INTERVIEW NO. 48