A chance encounter with a street art gallery transformed Tee2Sugars’ life, leading him to pursue his passion for murals and creativity.
Merthyr Tydfil: If you’re in the South Wales valleys, you’ve likely seen Tee2Sugars’ vibrant murals. Tom Llewelyn, the artist behind them, started this journey during the Covid pandemic when he found himself unable to work.
Originally from Tonyrefail, Tee has been painting for over 16 years. Before that, he was stuck in jobs that didn’t inspire him and barely paid the bills. His love for street art sparked during a college trip to London when he and his friends went searching for a Banksy piece.
They ended up at an old warehouse that was a street art gallery, but it had just closed. Luckily, the owner let them in, and Tee was amazed by the colorful murals covering every inch of the walls. That moment lit a fire in him, and he knew he wanted to create art like that.
With his first paycheck, he bought spray paint and started experimenting. He painted everything from stencils to a New York skyline, which led to his first commission. It was a bit of a leap, but he dove into street art whenever he could, even while juggling other jobs.
When the pandemic hit, Tee finally had the time to focus on his passion. He created a social media presence under the name Tee2Sugars, sharing his work and connecting with people. His pieces, often reflecting pop culture, started gaining traction.
One of his standout moments was a mural of Captain Tom Moore, which drew crowds. Then, on VE Day, he painted a mural that went viral, showcasing a soldier and a healthcare worker. This was a turning point for him, as he realized people were genuinely interested in his art.
Lockdown turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Tee. He used the time to grow his online presence, and soon he was able to pursue art full-time. Now, he has fans who actively seek out his murals for photos, and he’s grateful for the journey that led him here.
Reflecting on that day at the warehouse, Tee believes it was a pivotal moment. Without it, Tee2Sugars might not exist. He’s now creating the large-scale murals he dreamed of back then, including a significant piece for the Eisteddfod in Pontypridd.
This mural, depicting a father and daughter, represents the connection between generations in the Rhondda. The response has been overwhelming, with thousands of people passing by daily. Tee loves that his art brings joy to others, especially in a place that can often feel gray.
He aims to brighten up the valleys with his colorful creations. Tee understands that street art is about letting go; once a piece is done, it’s time to move on. His work has taken him around the world, collaborating with big brands and artists he admires.
Looking ahead, Tee is excited about the future. He plans to keep growing his social media presence and hopes to continue traveling and creating art that resonates with people. The journey has just begun, and he’s ready for whatever comes next.