Posted by The new Converse One Star Pro City Pack has launched this month drawing its inspirations from four distinctly unique metropolitan environments; London, Paris, Berlin, and Milan.
Across Europe, the One Star’s legacy continues to expand and grow and the new collection launches with community at the heart. To celebrate, Converse has partnered with local creatives and collectives to capture the unique spirit of each city, showcasing the perspectives by locals for locals.
Since it first debuted in 1974, the Converse One Star has been a sneaker of choice for those seeking a different path. It has always been a declaration of belonging in skate culture, making it an extension of local identity. The newest offering builds on the local love for the One Star Pro with details that call out each city, including flocking on the toe bumper and stitching on the heel. Additionally, a CONS traction rubber outsole offers optimal board feel and impact cushioning while the low-cut design provides freedom of movement. With a sturdy suede upper, the silhouette also helps ensure durability for a long-lasting performance.
Each version of the One Star City Pack is now available to purchase at Converse.com and at select retailers in London, Paris, Berlin, and Milan. To celebrate the new One Star City Pack collection launching, Clash caught up with four of the Converse All Stars for a guided tour of their favourite places and a conversation on how the city has impacted their sensibilities and tastes.
To sum this up succinctly we also asked them to exercise their pens out and write a short love letter to the city in their own fair hand.
A LOVE LETTER TO PARIS – MARIE PREVOT
Dear Paris,
I must confess, between you and me, it’s been a love-hate relationship. I genuinely love how vast and dynamic you are, how you’ve propelled me into the captivating world of fashion, and how my tastes have evolved under your influence. I adore the vibrancy and international flavor you bring to life.
Paris is undeniably stunning, but it’s also demanding, fast-paced, and challenging. The real Paris is not a fairytale; it requires constant effort and determination.
Yours sincerely,
Secure the Converse One Star Pro Paris City Pack HERE now.
Which Paris-based cultural figure transcends fashion? Someone you think is singular in the way they use fashion as a means of expression…
I immediately think of Glenn Martens when it comes to strong and creative artistic direction. I’m truly captivated by his work. In the realm of younger and highly influential individuals, Lara Violetta, who is a friend of a friend of mine, comes to mind. A German Paris based YouTuber with a unique style that combines a girly kawaii aesthetic with edgy vintage brands.
Tell us about some of the other creatives in your circle of friends and what you do in Paris to have fun and relax after a hard working week?
I have a wonderful circle of friends who work in various departments of the fashion industry, including development, press, marketing, sales, and some who are photographers and graphic designers. Each of them has been a great source of inspiration for me, and I have a deep appreciation for their talents and creativity. During the week, I engage in several sports activities like yoga, pilates, and HIIT. These activities help me disconnect from work and maintain a healthy balance in my life. When the weekend finally arrives, I cherish spending time in my apartment, which I consider my safe haven. I enjoy relaxing by doing some Sudoku or simply organizing stuff. Additionally, I have a passion for exploring the vibrant art scene in town, visiting exhibitions, and discovering new galleries and design spaces like Le Corbusier, Atelier Brancusi, Carpenters Workshop, and Maison de Verre.
What is your favourite part of living in Paris?
Sharing meals and drinks during the week with my boyfriend and friends is another cherished pastime. I love exploring and trying out restaurants I’ve discovered or those that have been recommended to me. Making time for genuine connections and nurturing relationships is something I truly value. I have a strong desire to discover new places every single day.
Where are some of your favourite places to eat and drink with friends in Paris?
One of my favourite Italian restaurants in Paris is Mulino Mule, a charming Sicilian eatery located in the 10th arrondissement. It’s small and intimate, creating a convivial atmosphere that I adore. Another delightful spot I enjoy taking friends to is Pantobaguette, situated in the 18th arrondissement. Here, you can savour shared plates, indulge in natural wines, and groove to some music. The experience is not only delicious but also very enjoyable. For those craving a top-notch burger in town, I highly recommend Le Ruisseau, also located in the 18th arrondissement. Recently, I discovered a new gem called Buttes Snack Bar, nestled in the 19th arrondissement. I was particularly impressed by the ambiance and the delectable food they offer.
You’re a Paris-based designer. In what ways has the cosmopolitan feel of the city impacted your work?
As a designer based in Paris, the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city has profoundly influenced my work. To stay current and inspired, I’ve made it a priority to follow a diverse range of creatives, including photographers, designers, set designers, stylists, and various media outlets. This commitment to staying informed allows me to keep up with the latest developments in the dynamic Parisian creative scene. I believe that continuous searching and keeping one’s eyes and ears open are essential for personal and professional growth. It’s all about constant self-development.
Are there any other Paris-based artist/creatives we should be keeping an eye out for?
A notable figure in the fashion industry is Lola Clabots, a Belgian freelance PR specialist who is based in Paris. Lola possesses expertise in nurturing and promoting emerging designers, and her passion for her work is unmistakable. She is definitely a figure to keep an eye on as she is poised to make a significant impact in the industry.
How would you define your personal style?
For me, it’s all about the silhouette and attention to detailing; these elements elevate clothing pieces. I prefer a simpler colour palette because it places a stronger emphasis on the quality of cuts, materials, and fit. It’s the craftsmanship that truly draws me in and defines my wardrobe. I used to exclusively wear black for many years. While the pandemic didn’t bring a dramatic shift in my style, it did reaffirm my fashion philosophy. It made me more conscious of the brands I choose to wear, and I now delve deeper into their ethos and their approach to sustainability. This consideration still guides me when I add new pieces to my wardrobe. I’m always on the lookout for opportunities to add more to my collection.
Do you have a favourite pair of Converse in your collection?
A good basic : Chuck Taylor ‘70s in black
What are you listening to the most at the moment? Which artists have been in your regular rotation for you this year?
Well, I’ve been absolutely hooked on ‘RIOT’ by A$AP Rocky and Pharrell. I find myself hitting the repeat button quite often! I’ve also been diving into Travis Scott’s new album, ‘God’s Country,’ and tracks like ‘I Know.’ ‘Search & Rescue’ by Drake has also been on my playlist. As for my regular rotation throughout the year, it’s quite diverse. I’ve been enjoying the sounds of JUL, Laylow, SCH, Jimmy Whoo, Kaytranada, James Blake, Marvin Gaye, Kendrick Lamar, Hamza, and Jay-Z. My deep love for R&B and Hip-Hop runs deep, as I was a Hiphop dancer for 10 years starting when I was just 10 years old. So, these artists have a special place in my heart year-round: Missy Elliott, Eminem, Mac Miller, Lauryn Hill, Outkast, Mos Def, Kid Cudi, Warren G, RUN DMC, and the list goes on! It’s a pretty extensive lineup!
What made you decide to be a Converse All Star?
It was a complete surprise when I was approached by a friend of a close friend. He explained the project to me during a birthday celebration, and I found myself deeply interested in all the future events and opportunities it held. Subsequently, I received an invitation to the Converse Showroom to delve further into the proposal. I believe this opportunity is a means for me to expand my horizons and develop myself through valuable connections and engaging projects in the realms of music, art, and fashion—subjects that I hold close to my heart.
How did you venture into the world of fashion and design?
I hail from Avignon, a picturesque city in the south of France. Ever since I was a child, I had a deep passion for exploring flea markets and vintage stores in search of unique and intriguing pieces. My family couldn’t quite understand my tastes at the time, as they differed from their own. After completing my scientific baccalaureate, I decided to take a year to explore my interests in applied arts. It was during this time that I was introduced to the captivating worlds of art and design. I fell head over heels in love with them. The following year, I made my way to Paris, where I continued my journey in pursuit of my creative passions.
How did you find your time studying at the Institut Français de la Mode? Would you recommend a similar path to others to enter the fashion industry?
When I embarked on my creative journey, I enrolled at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. However, during my third year, an exciting development occurred as they merged with IFM (Institut Français de la Mode). This merger presented me with the opportunity to be part of the new program and experience the new location in the 13th arrondissement. I completed a Bachelor’s degree in just three years, which was an intense but incredibly rewarding experience. At the outset, I had limited experience in drawing and sewing, so I had to put in extra effort to attain the necessary technical skills. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone interested in the fashion industry. It provides a structured framework and the chance to explore various disciplines. It encourages you to push your limits and, at the end of it all, you can take pride in your accomplishments.
Who are your core influences within the fashion world?
Many individuals inspire me, but the era that truly influences my style is the ’90s. Fashion visionaries like Phoebe Philo, Miuccia Prada, Raf Simons, Rei Kawakubo, and Issey Miyake have left an indelible mark on my creative sensibilities. When it comes to fashion icons, I’m particularly drawn to Amber Valletta, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Beri Smither.
As a fashion designer, where do you go to source your inspiration and formulate visual stories? What are your reference points?
I’m deeply passionate about contemporary art, design, and architecture, and I find that vintage clothing serves as a rich source of inspiration for me. It’s not just about fashion; it’s a lifestyle and a mood. Every aspect of life informs my artistic personality, but I’m particularly captivated by modernism and the distinctive shapes that emerged from the ’70s to the ’90s. In the realm of photography, some of the notable artists who inspire me include Mark Borthwick, Juergen Teller, Peter Lindbergh, Irving Penn, and Tyrone Lebon. When it comes to design, art, and furniture, I draw inspiration from the works of Pierre Paulin, Eero Saarinen, Jean Prouvé, Le Corbusier, David Hockney, and Alberto Giacometti.
What themes or narratives run through your work? What do you seek to interrogate with your design and art?
I’m very picky, I focus on details. Shapes, fabrics, seams. I’m always looking for a common thread. My themes are always guided by the Mediterranean.
What’s your preferred medium of creating and shooting?
I have a deep appreciation for both aspects of the creative process. When you embark on a project, you begin with the envisioning of an idea, a small spark in your mind. As you work towards bringing it to fruition, it’s akin to giving birth to a baby; the idea is born and comes to life when you’re ready to capture it through photography or any other medium
What is the work you’re most proud of?
I launched my own brand, ISRA, following the pandemic. Originally, it began as my end-of-year bachelor’s project, but I soon realized that it had the potential to become a more significant and deeply personal endeavour. The inspiration for the ISRA collection stems from a family figure – my grandfather. He was a painter born in Kenitra, Morocco, in 1939. The collection draws its essence from objects that belonged to him. The technicality and intricacy of these objects have been artfully transcribed into the pieces of this collection. Through these creations, I aimed to offer a genuine journey through time and diverse places. The core objective behind the collection was to blur the lines between accessories and clothing, creating a seamless fusion. The floral-patterned shirt stands out as the emblematic piece of this collection. Its print is a direct reference to the flower that adorned one of my grandfather’s favorite shirts, as well as featured prominently in his paintings.
Is there a defining quote, affirmation or mantra you live by?
Don’t be late – never give up – go out and finds motivation – one step at a time – stay focused, stay positive.
Where can we see you next? Do you have any upcoming personal projects planned for the future?
I’ll be continuing my work on ISRA on the side. Who knows, perhaps you’ll find me at a new fashion house in the future!
A LOVE LETTER TO BERLIN: MARINA MONACO
Dear Berlin,
It’s a bit crazy to think about how everything in my life has changed since the first time I visited the city 5 years ago. I still remember the feeling.
There was nostalgia. Lots of it. The old train stations, the second hand furniture, the underground club culture. The music in a foreign language that I could hardly understand but I still felt so connected. Art of all different shapes and colours from every part of the world. A city that you experience when you connect with its history. A hidden world. I remember the freedom and the blue hours.
Every corner lost-in-time inspired me like no other. Somehow, I knew that a part of me belonged here. And fortunately, I was not wrong. It still feels like a dream. I hope I can capture it before this feeling goes away.
Much love,
Marina
Secure the Converse One Star Pro Berlin City Pack HERE now.
Where are some of your favourite places to eat and drink with friends in Berlin?
I only drink beer so my favorite bars are 8mm, Tennis Bar, Loophole, Laidak. For food a must-go is Han West – a mixture of dumplings, baos and fries with peanut sauce. Sounds weird but it’s actually amazing. You have places from all over the world!
You’re Berlin-based. In what ways has the cosmopolitan feel of the city impacted
your work?
I would say that the feeling of being an outsider -in a good way- has impacted my work. Coming from the other side of the world (Buenos Aires) made me very sensitive to the foreign, to the unknown. Gives you perspective. As a photographer, this could mean a huge advantage for the kind of photography I am focusing on more documentary.
What is your favourite part of living in Berlin?
My favourite part is the non-stop inspiration-stimulation (if that word even exists?) you can get all the time. And you don’t just find it by going to art exhibitions or music gigs. You can find it in conversations with people that you have never met if you had stayed in your hometown. You find it in the small trashy bars. You find it traveling in the U-bahn and watching through the window. It’s everywhere. Leaving is tough. But the reward is indescribable.
Which Berlin-based artist/creative should we be keeping an eye out for?
You should listen to Nils Keppel’s music- he is Leipzig-based (very close to Berlin). He is an insane musician from Germany. I think, one of the best out there from the emerging scene. We worked together closely for a year. We shot 2 music videos and I started to take backstage photos during his gigs. I even took intimate photos with his girlfriend which was very personal. Brings me back to the good old times that I am inspired by. As a photographer, it’s a beautiful experience to capture someone who trusts you so much. Even though we don’t speak the same language we understood each other very well since
the beginning.
Tell us about some of the fun you have had working with Converse on the OS City
Pack and how the campaign and shoe itself has resonated with you personally as
a Berlin resident?
It’s always so relaxed with Converse! I love that. If they want to work with you it is because they trust your work and that’s something I appreciate a lot. They want you to just be yourself and push you as an artist. Alongside this article, I had the luck to also shoot the Campaign with other creatives from Berlin – Steffen Grap, Toni Agost and Camilo Gonzalez. Something I really liked about Converse is the way they trusted me with eyes closed (literally). I shot the photos on analog so we didn’t have the chance to have a look at how the pictures were looking until a few days after. In the end, the outcome was great! And I think it was thanks to the freedom I felt at the shooting.
How would you define your personal style?
It’s hard to describe because I don’t like to put things into boxes. I would say: second-hand-nostalgic-vibe-core + skirts, a scarf and leather jackets.
How do you express yourself through fashion and the looks you put together for
yourself and your work?
Like everyone else in Berlin, I like to dress in second-hand clothes. I guess because they keep the nostalgic vibe alive, plus climate change. When it comes to my subjects, I like to ask them to wear their own clothes. It is a must for my shoots that they bring their own outfits, otherwise, it would feel too fake.
What are your favourite pair of Converse in your collection?
I love the classic Chuck Taylor in black. Black is always good!
Tell us about some of the other creatives in your circle of friends and what you do in Berlin to have fun and relax after a hard working week?
I am a HUGE fan of my friends. They are all artists, which is really nice because we support each other. There’s a lot of love and admiration. One of my best friends Sofia (@_sms.xyz) is a graphic designer and a creative visual director (and many other things <3>@jxcolantonio) on my upcoming solo exhibition and book. She has a beautiful sensibility for finding your inner word and putting it into words. Every artist should get to know her. Also Dan Trautwein (@dantrautwein), my dear German colleague, director, and photographer. I would say we see the world with very similar eyes. The list goes on. We love cozy dinners under the candlelight, eternal existential conversations about how fast we are growing up together, and experiencing the city by going to as many exhibitions as possible.
What made you decide to be a Converse All Star?
I wanted to open up my circle of creative people from different disciplines, which is sometimes difficult. I also liked the way they support emerging artists, something you don’t see that often with brands. Converse has built a huge community around the world, we are all connected.
How did you venture into the world of photography? What was the catalyst?
I don’t remember when I exactly got my first camera, but I think between 10-12 years old. I got inspired by watching my mum, my aunt and my cousin capturing their memories – 3 important female figures within my family. Photography has always been a therapy for me. A way of capturing myself, my friends, my feelings. Especially a way of meeting new people. I used to be very shy but it was thanks to the camera that I found a connection to the outside world.
What theme or narrative runs through your work? What do you seek to interrogate with your art?
The feeling of nostalgia of lives that I never lived. Somehow, my pictures show a hidden world that is within myself. Also, “Youth” is a huge topic. I would say my series is an essay on the passing of time.
What’s your preferred medium of creating?
I can’t choose. When I am on a shoot, I go out with at least 4 cameras. My models laugh about it because I look funny wearing all of them. Each one has its own aesthetic. I would say I like analog photography more, but digital colours have their own magic, especially for catching the blue hour. Lately, I have been more into medium format. But if I have to pick up one, the cheap point-and-shoot is my go-to. It is always at the bottom of my bag ready for when I go out and I want to capture a moment that I want to
turn into something timeless.
Who are your core influences within the creative world?
Some to mention are Patti Smith and her way of living life as an artist. Susan Meiselas, I got goosebumps when I saw her exhibition at C/O Berlin. Olivia Bee and her nostalgic way of capturing life. Harold Hauswald with his way of capturing East Berlin. Jonas Mekas with his way of seeing images…
What is the work you’re most proud of?
This is a tough one. My ongoing series called “Kids Series” where I capture youth culture. If I have to choose, my most recent favorites are documenting the emerging music scene in Germany. The post punk and new-wave music of the late 70s and early 80s is a huge source of inspiration for me. Especially the photography of that era – that black and white, high-contrast, raw image. The way the youth looked, the way they expressed themselves.
A defining quote, affirmation or mantra you live by?
“This is for the book.” – each time I take a meaningful photograph. It is a symbolic way to say that I want to keep that moment forever with me, and also for a future generation.
Where can we see your work? Do you have any projects or exhibitions planned for the future?
You can have a look at www.marinamonacoph.com or my instagram @marinaamonaco. I also have an important announcement: I will finally have my first solo exhibition at Art House Rising on the 27th, 28th, and 29th of October with some unpublished photos! I am also making my first zine. It’s a big step in my journey as I’ve never seen my photos on a large format paper before. Hope to see you there!
A LOVE LETTER TO MILAN: ENRIQUE MIGLIORINI
This letter is to the city of opportunities.
The city of parties & fun, the city of fashion and culture; Milan.
I’d like the younger generations that follow us to understand the incredible potential of our city.
To realise how lucky we are to live in a place that is so rich with art.
We should represent it proudly, standing up for our ideals at all times no matter what life throws at us.
Milan has so much potential to be even more incredible than it already is.
Let’s realise that full potential together.
Secure the Converse One Star Milano City Pack HERE now.
Tell us about some of the other creatives in your circle of friends and what you do in Milan to have fun and relax after a hard working week?
My circle of friends is really full of creative minds; musicians, artists, graphic designers, photographer’s and video makers. To have fun we skate, take a ride in our cars, meet together for food & mostly just spend time hanging out and trying to make each other laugh. Whenever they make good food, we really love to eat. We love sushi and ramen a lot, and I personally select places based on the way they make cappuccino because I really love it.
Where are some of your favourite places to eat, drink and hangout with friends in Milan?
A good place to spend the evening with friends is ‘Tutti Fritti’ in Colonne.
How did the Pasta Frolla Squad and your brand come together?
It took life suddenly by a WhatsApp group with friends who then became the members of the squad.
You’re a Milan-based skater and creative. In what ways has the cosmopolitan feel of the city impacted your work?
Milan is a frenetic city, even if I consider myself a chill guy, the energy the city and the people gives you is constantly stimulating my mind. You can’t feel bored here, and that’s just amazing!
Are there any other Milan-based artists/creatives we should be keeping an eye out for?
My photographer friend @alecsmo, the collective @akwaaba.world, my brother and stolenstuff.eu.
What is your favourite part of living in Milan?
You can’t feel bored here, and that’s just amazing!
How would you define your personal style?
I define my style as changeable; the foundations of it are rooted in skateboarding but it changes depending on my mood and feelings.
What made you decide to be a Converse All Star?
I really desired to be a Converse All Star because I wanted to get to know some of the other creatives from all over the world. I hoped to be able to share my projects with them and learn about theirs and collaborate.
Do you have a favourite pair of Converse in your collection?
I’m really obsessed with my converse Le Fleur collection, and for skating in the Louie Lopez and the One Star are super comfy.
What are you listening to the most at the moment? Which artists have been in your regular rotation for you this year?
Lately I’m really into Japan 80’ city pop, but I love every type of music, it depends on my mood.
When did you start skating and documenting youth culture yourself? What was the catalyst?
Since I started skating I felt the need to document it, capturing our time together with videos and photographs; for the me of the future. Hopefully to inspire others, letting them see the way I see things and live life.
Who are your core influences within the fashion world? As both a skater and creative where do you go to source your inspiration and formulate visual stories? What are your reference points?
My core influences are always connected to skateboarding and music, my top influence is Odd Future.
Ofwgkta changed me, my style and the way I saw things.
What themes or narratives run through your work? What do you seek to interrogate with your design and art?
Everything I create is connected to how I feel. It’s like I want people to know how I’m feeling in that moment. I want everyone to understand that you can achieve everything you want by being true to your self.
What’s your preferred medium of creating and shooting?
I use my phone to shoot photographs a lot, as it is always with me alongside my film camera.
What is the work you’re most proud of?
I always complain to myself that I can do better so I can’t really answer this question ahahahah.
Is there a defining quote, affirmation or mantra you live by?
My mantra is: perseverance is the key, believe in yourself, you can achieve your dreams.
Be patient and persevere, if you really want to achieve something you will do it.
Where can we see you next? Do you have any upcoming personal projects planned for the future?
I see myself working and enjoying life with my friends, we have a special project coming together at the early stages so keep following our channels.
A LOVE LETTER TO LONDON: TEONI HINDS
To the city that holds my heart
There’s no other place I’d rather stay
You’ve watched me grow with a discerning eye
Into the woman I am today
Home to nations far and wide
Families broke but rich in pride
One love for London town
The place my heart will reside
Teoni
Secure the Converse One Star Pro London City Pack HERE now.
Which London-based cultural figure transcends fashion? Someone you think is singular in the way they use fashion as a means of expression…
Off the top of my head, I would definitely say Nyah (@missmallz). She makes really cool Tiktoks on her style. I love her style because its pretty similar to mine, girly but very boyish at the same time and how she uses thrift/secondhand items to create very cool, unique fits.
Tell us about some of the other creatives in your circle of friends and what you do in London to have fun and relax after a hard working week?
In my group we have the goat Manraj, the wonder boy Hayden Ramsay, skater/model/artist Atlantic Johnson & sculptor Dulcie Davy. Normally, I don’t do much relaxing, it’s pretty difficult to get me away from a canvas for the most part. However, I do like to just sit on top of Primrose Hill with my friends and talk about which area of London we want to live in ahaha.
Where are some of your favourite places to eat and drink with friends in London?
Me and the guys love chicken kitchen we order it to the stu all the time. But we mainly go for a cheeky Nando’s if were trying to sit in and eat, you know it’s always a vibe at Nando’s regardless of which one we go to they always show us love.
Which London-based artist/creative should we be keeping an eye out for?
Definitely Atlantic Johnson. He’s already a young skateboarder endorsed by Supreme but is now embracing his artistic side. He creates beautifully detailed portraits that he pulls out of his photographic memory.
What is your favourite part of living in London?
I love how I can create a place and a community to belong to in such a diverse yet fast paced city, we all need a place to belong to you know.
You’re a London-based artist. In what ways has the cosmopolitan feel of the city impacted your work?
Being able to talk to so many different people, take in and understand their experiences really helps me to dig deeper and make more of an impact with my brush, the insight that I can gain from a simple conversation has a tremendous impact on my work.
Tell us about some of the fun you have had working with Converse on the OS City Pack and how the campaign and shoe itself has resonated with you personally as a London resident?
It was cool to just travel around the city with the crew and hit up my favorite spots, I love the whole idea of the shoe because it centers around the things we believe that makes our city, which in turn makes me happy that I can show love to and support small businesses such as the chippy on the corner.
How would you define your personal style?
It’s hard to say really, I don’t intentionally try to dress to a certain aesthetic. I guess I like streetwear, its most comfortable when working at the studio. Baggy jeans, a graphic tee and a clean crep, defo my go to. I wear whatever I can find and what’s given to me, most of my wardrobe are my friends hand-me-downs and stuff I find second hand.
Do you have a favourite pair of Converse in your collection?
Yes my cons x comme des garcons.
What are you listening to the most at the moment? Which artists have been in your regular rotation for you this year?
I haven’t been listening to any new music to be honest but IAMDDB is always in my regular rotation. Her sound is very unique and every track of hers is a banger. Can never go wrong.
What made you decide to be a Converse All Star?
I’ve always loved converse , I used to cry as kid sometimes from seeing them in the shop windows but never having enough money to afford them , I just believe in and love how freeing the all-stars are in their forms of expressions .
How did you venture into the world of art/fine art? What was the catalyst?
I always used to a lot draw as kid but when you grow up in a Jamaican house hold there’s little to no margin for talking back so I had to find an outlet to express myself and so I continued drawing and eventually fell in love with painting.
Who are your core influences within the art world?
Claudette Johnson, Lynette Yiadom Boyake, Tracy Emin. I love they way they express themselves through their preferred medium. I admire their vulnerability and how they can depict raw moments which is what I always strive for.
As an artist, where do you go to source your inspiration and formulate visual stories? What are your reference points?
Inspiration for me comes from everything and everywhere I could be walking through the city or smoking the mandem on street fighter my imagination has no restraints when I want to paint I’ll paint whatever comes to mind
What theme or narrative runs through your work? What do you seek to interrogate with your art?
I like to explore the vulnerability of human nature through my brush therefore you’ll see this motif of people in familiar settings such as being around loved ones or with parents or chilling on a sofa which is where you tend to see people the happiest
What’s your preferred medium of creating?
Oils and Oil pastels because they allow me to make big expressive movements easily.
What is the work you’re most proud of?
Probably my Self Portrait (2021). I thinks it completely conveys every emotion I was feeling at the time. I completely let go and that’s when I make my best work.
Is there a defining quote, affirmation or mantra you live by?
Big up yourself, never small up yourself
Where can we see your work? Do you have any exhibitions planned for the future?
I’ve got some stuff in the works, working on a solo show which I hope to put out next year. Other than that you can see my original works hung up in London’s finest café, BeauBeaus