Make-up is dissident. It claims control over identity. It rewrites...
Meet the regular fixture at London’s Berlin Berlin club night known for its daring parties
Read time 5 minutes
Step into the mesmerizing world of London's underground nightlife, and you're bound to encounter a figure who defies convention at every turn—Léo, better known by his digital alter ego, Spooky Kid.
With a striking presence that captivates both online and in the real world, Spooky Kid embodies a unique blend of performance art, fashion experimentation, and unapologetic self-expression. From his daring Instagram posts to his larger-than-life persona on the club circuit, Léo invites us on a journey into the depths of his creative mind, where boundaries are meant to be pushed and individuality reigns supreme. In this article, we delve into the inspirations behind Spooky Kid’s avant-garde aesthetic, explore the evolution of his unconventional artistry, and uncover the secrets that lie beneath the surface of this enigmatic figure.
At the heart of Spooky Kid lies a desire for self-expression—a longing to break free from the constraints of societal norms and embrace the full spectrum of human emotion. For Léo, Spooky Kid represents an extension of himself, a virtual alter ego through which he can explore the depths of his psyche and express the parts of himself that often go unseen. With each post and performance, Spooky Kid invites us into a world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, where the mundane becomes extraordinary, and where individuality reigns supreme.
When it comes to his creative process, Spooky Kid draws inspiration from a diverse array of sources, ranging from the avant-garde sounds of Klaus Nomi to the boundary-pushing designs of Leigh Bowery. It’s a melting pot of influences that collide and coalesce into something entirely new and unexpected. From music and fashion to art and literature, Spooky Kid’s aesthetic is a reflection of the eclectic tapestry of influences that shape his worldview.
At the forefront of Spooky Kid’s creative endeavors is his exploration of body transformation through fashion. Through outsized garments filled with balloons and unconventional materials, he seeks to challenge traditional notions of beauty and aesthetics, pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable or normal. It’s a bold and audacious approach to fashion design that invites us to question our preconceived notions and embrace the beauty of individuality.
On any given Saturday night, you might find Spooky Kid immersed in the pulsating energy of London’s underground club scene. From intimate warehouse parties to larger-than-life club events, he’s always on the lookout for new experiences and inspirations to fuel his creative endeavors. It’s a world where self-expression knows no bounds, and where Spooky Kid feels most at home.
For Spooky Kid, art is about more than just self-expression—it’s about challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable or normal. Through his daring Instagram posts, provocative performances, and boundary-pushing fashion designs, he invites us to question our assumptions, embrace the beauty of individuality, and celebrate the eccentricities that make us who we are.
As Spooky Kid continues to push the boundaries of creativity and self-expression, the future looks brighter than ever. With each new post and performance, he invites us to join him on a journey into the depths of his creative mind, where the possibilities are endless and the only limit is our imagination. So, buckle up and prepare to be transported to a world where the eccentric reigns supreme and individuality knows no bounds.
“Embrace the eccentricities that make you unique, for it is in the realm of individuality that true creativity flourishes.” – Spooky Kid
Slick: How would you describe your profession and practice?
Léo: Spooky Kid is more than just a persona; it’s a manifestation of my innermost emotions and desires. Through my digital artistry, I can explore facets of myself that I often struggle to express in the real world. It’s a liberating form of self-expression that allows me to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.
Slick: What informs your designs? What do you watch and listen to when you work?
Léo: My creative process is fueled by a diverse range of influences, from the avant-garde sounds of Klaus Nomi to the boundary-pushing designs of Leigh Bowery. I draw inspiration from the worlds of music, fashion, and art, allowing these influences to collide and coalesce into something entirely new and unexpected.
Slick: What are you working on at the moment?
Léo: Currently, I’m experimenting with the concept of body transformation through fashion. I’m exploring the idea of using outsized garments filled with balloons and unconventional materials to reshape and redefine the human form. It’s a bold and unconventional approach to fashion design that challenges traditional notions of beauty and aesthetics.
Slick: Where would we find you on a Saturday night?
Léo: On any given Saturday night, you might find me immersed in the pulsating energy of London’s underground club scene. From intimate warehouse parties to larger-than-life club events, I’m always on the lookout for new experiences and inspirations to fuel my creative endeavors.
Slick: Can you tell us your most memorable experience from a night out?
Léo: One particularly memorable experience was when I found myself inadvertently causing a stir on social media after sharing some post-surgery photos with my followers. It was a reminder of the power of social media to blur the lines between public and private life, and the importance of maintaining boundaries in the digital age.
Slick: Talk us through the image above.
Léo: This image is a reflection of my fascination with the intersection of fashion and digital art. It’s a dress that I created using a combination of digital manipulation and traditional sewing techniques, blurring the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
Slick: How have people responded to your body manipulation?
Léo: The response to my body manipulation experiments has been incredibly positive, with many people expressing admiration for my willingness to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. It’s a reminder that beauty comes in many forms, and that true self-expression knows no limits.
Slick: What’s your most memorable piercing experience?
Léo: My most memorable piercing experience was definitely getting my septum pierced. It was a painful yet exhilarating experience that taught me a lot about resilience and self-expression.
Slick: Tell us a secret about yourself that nobody else knows.
Léo: One secret that I’ve never shared publicly is that I have a deep-seated fascination with the macabre. I’ve always been drawn to the darker side of life, and it’s something that fuels much of my creative work.
Slick: What’s your guilty pleasure?
Léo: My guilty pleasure is indulging in a bit of mischief from time to time. Whether it’s pulling pranks on friends or playing practical jokes on unsuspecting strangers, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of a good laugh.
Slick: What’s the most intriguing thing you’ve ever witnessed?
Léo: One of the most intriguing things I’ve ever witnessed was a spontaneous performance by a group of street artists in the heart of the city. It was a surreal and captivating experience that left a lasting impression on me, inspiring much of my work to this day.
Text by
Kaden Mason
Photography by
Adam Newport-Berra
Fashion by
Taylor McNeill
Posted
May 14, 2022
Text by
Kaden Mason
Photography by
Adam Newport-Berra
Fashion by
Taylor McNeill
August 9, 2018
Related
Paris-born creative artist and producer Aime Simone delivers his hotly...
by Kelly Barnes
The chart-topping star reconnects with his former self to examine...
by DREEDN
Setting sail for 'Island of the Sun,' the artist weaves...
by Andrekka Lanier
The expression of ideas and emotions, with the creation of...
by Adrian Hendrix
Melodic Mastermind: Aime Simone’s Dynamic Influence Reshaping the Music Scene
Read time 2 minutes
Posted
July 1, 2023
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
Oh Glory is out now on Because Music.
Posted
July 1, 2023
August 9, 2018