TEONI
City Guide with Converse All Star
We spent a sunny day with Fine Artist and the newest Converse All Star, Teoni! She took us to her favourite spots in her city; from her studio, favourite chippy, to Primrose Hill, her place of inspiration.
On our day out we discussed her career so far, what it’s like to be representing Converse’s new One Star City Pack and where are the best spots in her city, London.
Hi Teoni, how are you?
Great, thank you
When was it that you decided you were going to pursue Fine Art as a career?
When I was 17, right after my A level exam! I finally saw that my art can actually move people and have an affect on others. It wasn’t just for games anymore and I felt a want to try and make a difference.
Recently you started an Arts Club at Cafe BeauBeaus, whats been the most rewarding aspect of this?
Just people turning up is rewarding enough for me! Ahaha but I’ve loved seeing the difference in my students drawings from the start of their sessions to the end; the improvements they make are so insane, they’re even shocked themselves. I love that!!
You’re known for your portraits, that are beautifully intimate. What is easier to do, your own or someone else’s?
None of them are ever easy, they’re both just as challenging to do. However, I love doing self portraits, because I know myself the best. I can express every emotion on the canvas a lot easier.
I went through a stage where I was really obsessed with neon signs, around the same time I fell in love with ‘Trapsoul’ by Bryson Tiller and all of the visuals that accompanied it. There was some random film photo that I came across of an old gas station with a blue neon sign that said ‘SODA’ at the back near the drinks fridge. It just ended up sticking at the time so I guess we’re rolling with it now.
I remember my dad getting me bright pink high tops that were too small for me, but I didn’t tell him because I really wanted to wear the shoes ahaha. So I’d walk around in pain, because it was all for the drip!!
You’ve just become a Converse All Star, how fun! What is your earliest memory of Converse?
You’ve come along way, as you are now representing London for the Converse One City Pack, how does it feel?
Feels so insane still. I love London, I’m happy I can represent my home.
“London has so much beauty under the fast pace of it all, you just have to take your time and look. I don’t know, but I guess I love watching the beauty under the chaos as my work revolves around romanticising the everyday. What inspires my work the most, is just the little encounters you make with everyday people”
Teoni
London is a big source of your inspiration, where in the city do you find it?
Primrose Hill for sure, Hampstead Heath and then any exhibition that’s going on, at The National Portrait Gallery + The Tate.
Fave London spots ?
Vapianos (one of my paintings is currently on the oxford circus restaurant window)
BeauBeaus, I host my art classes here alongside Slawn!
The Local Chippy!
Might catch me on a bike, best way to get around London
194 Local - Best Vintage finds!
What about a hidden gem, if you’re willing to share? Sorry, they gotta stay hidden!
A childhood memory that sums up London, for you?
The “Just do it” bag era!
LONDON IS……….? Unforgiving
I might be on your television screens very soon and I’m so excited.
Work wise what more can we expect from you this year?
Creative Team
PHOTOGRAPHER: MEARA KALLISTA
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: SOPHIE EMMETT
Locations
TEONI‘S STUDIO
REGENT STREET
PRIMROSE HILL
VAPIANOS, 19-21 Great Portland Street, W1W 8QB
CHIPPY ON THE CORNER, 480 Caledonian Road, N7 9RP
194 LOCAL, 78D Brick Ln, London E1 6SA