Cosmic Conversations: Tommy Schonder
Tommy is an…
insatiably curious host and curator. He recently founded The HILL, a cultural space where the lighting is a bit more forgiving than your typical gallery or boutique.
Sun / Moon / Rising:
Sagittarius / Virgo / Capricorn
How do astrology / tarot / esoteric arts play a role in your life?
Astrology/mysticism played no role in my life until about 3 years ago. Tarot was not exactly a hot topic in the rural Virginia cultural milieu of my youth. And esotericism was no match for the sanctimonious political discourse of the neurotic strivers that surrounded me during my decade in NYC (don’t worry I love New York and had a great time there). I did not see the cosmic light until I arrived in Los Angeles and met its refreshingly delusional cast of characters. In LA, the astrological arts have the sunshine and under-employed population needed to truly thrive. It’s fun and inspiring and I’d rather people get into Tarot than QAnon.
What limiting beliefs / blocks have you worked through to get where you are today?
Don’t let your job title prevent you from being creative.
Some of the most truly creative people I know don’t have “creative” in their title.
Don’t overthink it. Just get going.
Why do you think creative exploration and expansion are important in today’s world?
For better, for worse, humans will keep creating. It’s what we do. Might as well make it more interesting and push the boundaries faster. I’m getting particularly bored of mcm furniture.
What’s your approach to natural wine? Why do you love it? Do you have any rituals?
Lighting and stylish company makes all the difference. I don’t want a glass of natural wine if I don’t have a candle, a cigarette and a stylish and sexy conspirator. I try to never drink alone.
How do you nurture balance in your life? Any tips / tricks on how to enjoy yourself and stay grounded?
To be honest I don’t really try to nurture balance. Ive realized that I love being on the move. I think it’s important to be true to what you want and like. Don’t try to achieve balance because you read that you should. I tried that and it didn’t work for me. I stay grounded by not having a big ego and by making those around me comfortable. I try and always do what feels right.
What’s filling your cup this season?
I’m drinking a chilled red in a hot tub.
Who and what is inspiring you right now?
Bobco Metals. Go there and I promise you will be inspired to make something
All the designers and artists we are working with at The Hill - the attitude of the artistic community in LA feels so positive and collaborative right now.
My friend and music producer Nez lent me his copy of Night Fever: Designing Club Culture - so much inspiring info regardless of your field.
My new friend and entrepreneur Wicks Walker showed me this strikingly beautiful deck of Tarot cards from occultist and philosopher Aleister Crowley.
Dream dinner party guests – dead or alive.
I’ll do alive since that narrows it down. Dead would take me way too long to think about.
Dave Chapelle, Larry David (in the middler position of course) Tim Dillon, Anna Khachiyan, Trent Reznor, Elon Musk, Monica Belucci, Larry Gagosian
Where’s your happy place?
The dance floor or a first class airplane pod
3 brands/idols that represent the energy of LOVER / BEST FRIEND / RIVAL for you
LOVER: Penelope Cruz
BEST FRIEND: J B Smoove
RIVAL: A Karen
