Raymon Grove

Triton College graduate Raymon Grove’s creativity took root early. Drawn to fashion as a child, he wasn’t just wearing it — he was designing it.

“I’ve always been into fashion,” he said. “I used to draw shoes all the time and even make my own because I thought that was something I’d want to do when I was older. I just always liked being creative.”

For Grove, fashion is more than flashy clothes and runway walks. It’s about creating your own distinct image and displaying it with confidence — showing the world who you are because there’s no one else like you.

“I think a lot of people get caught up trying to copy someone else’s style,” he said. “That’s boring. You’re copying an identity that isn’t you. Fashion is most interesting when it emphasizes individuality.”

Grove graduated from Triton College’s Visual Communication program in 2025 with a focus in photography. Since earning his degree, he has immersed himself in Chicago’s fashion scene.

Last year, Grove photographed 10 fashion shows, including four during Chicago Fashion Week. He called the experience surreal and said the exposure has helped grow his brand.

“I’ve always had a sense for fashion, but I just never imagined I’d be considered a runway photographer,” he said.

After graduating from high school in 2019, Grove weighed attending a four-year university but chose Triton, swayed by its affordability and proximity to home.

While he has always been a creative person, Grove credits Triton College and its Visual Communication program with helping him build confidence and practical skills. Along with refining his photography, he learned business fundamentals, networking strategies and resume development.

“I already knew I wanted to do this kind of work, but Triton gave me what I needed to turn it into a career,” he said.

Triton College’s Visual Communications degree allows students to tap into their creativity and work with practicing artist-educators to explore the artistic and technical components of graphic design, animation, digital video and digital photography.

Grove recently returned to campus to help photograph Crowns of Excellence, a captivating photo exhibit honoring the artistry, cultural pride and rich traditions of Black hairstyles. The photo display was the result of a campuswide collaboration among the Library and the Visual Communications, Cosmetology and Barber programs to capture the creativity, confidence and beauty that crown the Triton community.

“Coming back to the place where I learned almost everything was an amazing feeling,” he said. “I work independently now, so being able to collaborate with other creative minds and bring together something meaningful was rewarding.”