Meet Theo Griffin of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Theo Griffin.

Hi Theo, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Theo Griffin Jr., born and raised in New York City—and yes, Go Knicks!

Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in New York surrounded by culture, creativity, and street expression helped shape the artist I would become. During my time at The High School of Art and Design, one of my art teachers recognized something special in me. He selected me and a group of talented students to paint a mural in the school cafeteria. That experience became one of my first major artistic accomplishments, and our work was even featured in a Bronx newspaper. At that moment, I knew art wasn’t just something I enjoyed—it was something I was meant to pursue.

After high school, I continued my creative journey by attending the Art Institute of Atlanta, where I expanded my skills and learned how to merge traditional art with modern design. By combining my passion for painting with graphic design, I discovered new ways to express my creativity and build a brand around my work.

One of my proudest ventures was co-founding First Verse Apparel, a clothing brand I built alongside my business partner. What started as an idea grew into a brand that lasted for more than a decade. Through First Verse Apparel, I gained valuable experience in design, branding, entrepreneurship, and connecting art with fashion. Although we eventually decided to go our separate ways, the lessons and accomplishments from that journey continue to influence my work today.

Now, I am focused on developing my next creative venture: Button Eye, an original character with a unique look and personality. Button Eye is more than just a character—it’s a growing brand and creative universe that will soon be featured in children’s books, artwork, merchandise, and social media content. My goal is to create something that inspires imagination, creativity, and positivity for audiences of all ages.

I am also the creator of Art Addict Gallery, a social media-based platform dedicated to celebrating artists and creative culture. Art Addict Gallery brings together artists from different backgrounds, styles, and experiences, creating opportunities for collaboration, exposure, and community. Beyond the digital space, the platform also helps organize physical exhibitions and pop-up events where artists can showcase their work and connect with new audiences.

Today, I continue to create new paintings, illustrations, and designs every day. Art remains my passion, my profession, and my purpose. Whether I’m working on a canvas, developing new characters, designing graphics, or building opportunities for other artists, I’m always looking for ways to push creativity forward.

The journey is far from over. With new artwork, new collaborations, the growth of Button Eye, and upcoming Art Addict Gallery pop-up exhibitions on the horizon, I’m excited about what’s next and grateful for everyone who continues to support the vision.

Creating art isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.

— Theo Griffin Jr.
Artist • Designer • Creative Entrepreneur
Founder of Art Addict Gallery
Creator of Button Eye Kidz

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Most of my struggles were, consistency. Life distracts you in a way that you end up putting you hopes and dreams in the back burner. my grandmother recently passed away and sometimes things like that slow you down if not stop the whole proccess so I would go in and out of even feeling for art till I found self reflection and founds out how to inspire myself and stay consistent.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Today, I continue to create new paintings, illustrations, and designs every day. Art remains my passion, my profession, and my purpose. Whether I’m working on a canvas, developing new characters, designing graphics, or building opportunities for other artists, I’m always looking for ways to push creativity forward.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
hopefully my button eye kids characters become a sensation and distribute millions of books as well as merchandise. hope an art gallery that’ll showcase my work as well as millions of other inspiring artists.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @artaddictgallerycs
• Facebook: jr Griffin