#WEARESHARED - The Drake
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    #WEARESHARED

    Here at the Drake, we’re all about collaboration. When it comes to art, food, or fashion, two heads are always better than one, which is why we teamed up with three local artists on our 2018 Shared Collection. We’re bringing you made-in-Canada basics with our unique Drake energy, in partnership with Tallulah Fontaine, Josh Pong and Guy Anderson. Read on to hear from the artists about what inspires them and why….

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    Tallulah Fontaine

    How would you describe your personal style + your personal brand’s aesthetic? 

    Lately, I’ve been describing my style as a 90’s era casting director. Mostly because I wear this black leather blazer a lot. With my artwork, I want it to always feel personal and handmade which is why I like to use watercolours and soft pencils. A lot of the themes are based on my own experiences and as a woman artist sometimes the aesthetics are viewed as quite feminine. Even so, I hope that everyone can find something to related to in my work.

    What does The Drake mean to you? How do you feel connected to it? What is your favourite memory you share with The Drake?

    On the first proper trip I ever took to Toronto, I tagged along with some friends who were coming down for the Polaris Prize. We were staying down the street and it was very cold and I was sick so I would only wander as far at the Drake’s restaurant for one or two meals a day. I spent all week there, drinking coffee and reading books and it was a really good time! When I moved to Toronto, it became a kind of landmark for navigating around the few areas of the city I was familiar with. Since then, I have come for back on several occasions including some memorable dance parties!

    What does it mean to be Canadian to you? How has being Canadian or from / living in Toronto influenced your work?

    I think of my experiences being a Canadian artist are tied to the closeness of my community and the other artists around me. I’m originally from Edmonton which has a relatively small population so the arts and music scene there is really tight knit.You just a handful of amazing people escaping the cold to make art together. It’s a really nice feeling that I haven’t always found living in other cities.

    What’s your favourite way to style a t-shirt?

    I like to crop an oversized t-shirt so that the fit it super boxy and wear it with trousers, a black leather belt and boots.

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    Josh Pong

    How would you describe your personal style + your personal brand’s aesthetic? 

    I’m an easy to wear dude. If it fits and I’m comfortable – we’re good to go. Being a 80’s – 90’s kid I’m still drawn to styles of past mixed with present. 

    What does The Drake mean to you? How do you feel connected to it? 

    The Drake feels like a brand and company that’s investing in Toronto. The strip by Parkdale near the original hotel kinda rooted around The Drake when it comes to small business. My brother Jonathan is the head chef at The Drake 150, so I’m partial to his food and work with the restaurants.

    What does it mean to be Canadian to you? How has being Canadian or from/living in Toronto influenced your work?

    I love being Canadian, and I’m very lucky to be born and raised here. Living in Toronto gives you a certain lens to view whats going on in the world and it feels special to me. Some of it’s negative, and the city has a hater vibe at times until heads prove themselves – but I wouldn’t change a thing.

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    Guy Anderson

    How would you describe your personal style + your personal brand’s aesthetic?

    My design is inspired by something I found in an old book for teaching kids how to spell. There’s an awkwardness to the way the letters are laid out but also a simplicity – a combination I love.

    What does The Drake mean to you? How do you feel connected to it?

    For me, The Drake has always been a part of what it means to live in Toronto. When I was in University I thought of it as a place to go dancing and see shows but as I’ve grown up it’s become so much more and I’ve enjoyed all of it.

    Who is the Canadian that inspires you + why?

    I’m inspired every day by my partner Micah Lexier. He is the most creative, kind and supportive person I know.

    Shop the new Shared collection at our flagship location at 1151 Queen St W or find your perfect fit online

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