Tone Butta
“Geo and Friends: Growing up in the City”
Opening Reception: 2/22/2025
The City: A World of Possibilities
The city Geo calls home is a bustling metropolis, full of endless possibilities. It’s a place where skyscrapers stretch toward the sky, cafes spill out onto busy sidewalks, and every neighborhood has its own unique charm. From the crowded subway stations to quiet local libraries, Geo and his friends encounter all kinds of people, places, and experiences that shape their understanding of the world around them.
Meet Geo's Friends:
Noelle: The quiet, thoughtful one in the group. Noelle loves exploring the city’s many green spaces and is always on the lookout for hidden parks, secret gardens, and quiet spots away from the noise. She enjoys books and being her creative self.
Beezy: The prankster and the source of much of the group's mischief. Breezy is always coming up with new games and challenges, whether it’s a scavenger hunt around the neighborhood or a race to the corner store. His big personality matches the city’s vibrant energy.
Cheree’: Cheree’ is all about the social scene, always organizing meetups at the local hangout spots—whether it’s a park bench or a rooftop café. Her natural leadership skills make her the glue that holds the group together, and she’s always looking for ways to bring people together. Love interest of Geo/ Enemie
Miles: A tech enthusiast who loves documenting their adventures on his camera or through his social media feed. Miles is always thinking about new ways to capture the essence of the city, whether it’s a photo of the latest street art or a video of them racing through the city on their bikes.
Typical City Kid Adventures:
Through Geo and his friends, you’ll experience what it’s like to be a kid in the city. Whether it’s navigating the maze of streets, riding bikes through traffic, grabbing a quick bite at a corner store, or attending an impromptu concert in a downtown square, the adventures are endless. The city offers excitement at every turn—from discovering hidden street art to running into old friends while rushing to catch the bus.
But city life has its challenges, too. Geo and his friends face long commutes to school, overcrowded spaces, noisy neighborhoods, and the constant pressure to stay connected. They also experience the ebb and flow of urban friendships, from disagreements over group plans to sharing the excitement of a new favorite spot in town.
Interactive Elements:
Soundscape of the City: Immerse yourself in the sounds of the city. A multi-sensory experience allows you to hear the distant hum of traffic, the chatter of pedestrians, the sudden rush of a passing train, and the music playing from a nearby café. It’s the soundtrack to Geo and his friends’ world.
City Scavenger Hunt: Take part in an interactive scavenger hunt, just like Geo and his friends would. Follow clues and unlock challenges as you explore the exhibit. Can you find the hidden treasure in the city or the secret art installation that only a few know about?
Conclusion:
"Geo and Friends: Growing Up in the City" is a celebration of childhood experiences in an urban environment. It’s a story about making the most of city life—finding the small moments of joy and connection in a sprawling, dynamic world. Whether it’s a moment of laughter on the way to school or a quiet conversation on a crowded bus, Geo and his friends show us that the city is not just a place; it’s where memories are made, challenges are faced, and friendships are forged.
About the Artist:
Tone Butta, a visual artist hailing from PG County, MD, originally from Cambria Heights, NY, embarked on his artistic journey as a self-taught talent in 2016. His early endeavors involved restoring and customizing sneakers, a passion that allowed him to immerse himself in a world of colors and themes deeply rooted in sneaker culture. Over the years, Tone has meticulously crafted over 175 pairs of sneakers and shoes, catering to a diverse clientele.
Through his experience in sneaker customization, Tone transitioned into a contemporary artist across multiple mediums and consistently pushes the boundaries of colour and creativity. In his latest works, he has skillfully captured his personality and profound love for vibrant hues. Tone Butta’s art has graced the stages of national and International contemporary art shows, and he eagerly anticipates further opportunities to share his creations with the world.