The Future is Purple

The Origin of Purple Shirt Guy

I am Martin Andreas Arendt – photographer, gamer, drone pilot, and Japan specialist. Over the past three years, I have established a nickname alongside my long-time alias "Neko-Lord": Purple Shirt Guy. Unlike Blue Shirt Guy from Ryan Reynolds' Free Guy, my title has an entirely different origin. It all began with a lucky shirt I wore while flying drones—never a crash while wearing my signature purple shirt. Before that, however, I had already crashed two drones, which, by sheer coincidence, led to the ritual of always wearing the purple shirt. Over time, it evolved into a ritual, a staple of my persona, and an essential part of my identity.

My love for purple runs deep, but it has to be the right shade. Lavender and lilac are too pastel, aubergine leans too blue, and Bordeaux is more red than purple. This particular hue became synonymous with me, particularly during my frequent visits to cosplay conventions, where I almost always wore my iconic purple shirt. Of course, I own multiple identical versions—otherwise, the implications of repeated wear would be questionable, both practically and olfactorily. As my presence at events grew, so did my visual identity. The shirt became a symbol, a brand of sorts, instantly recognizable. And so, I embraced it: the photographer also known as Purple Shirt Guy.

It started with drones

Looking Forward – The Future is Purple

This identity isn't just a fleeting trend—it’s something I intend to expand upon. Beyond merely a nickname, I want to integrate it into my overall style and artistic expression. My last two books, DRESSED and MASKED, already feature their titles in bold purple letters, a deliberate nod to this personal brand. Moving forward, I plan to deepen this aesthetic incorporation, making it an even more prominent part of my creative journey.

The Psychology of Purple

From a psychological perspective, purple is often associated with creativity, artistry, and individuality. Historically linked to royalty and mysticism, it conveys a sense of ambition, uniqueness, and deep thinking. It’s no surprise that many creatives and visionaries gravitate toward this color—it embodies both imagination and transformation. In embracing the Purple Shirt Guy identity, I am not just making a stylistic choice but aligning with the artistic and expressive power that the color symbolizes.

This is more than just a signature look—it’s a statement. Purple Shirt Guy is here to stay.