Tesprit

Lomé, Togo

Born in 1994 in Lomé, Foli Kossi Gérard TETE, known as Tesprit, is a self-taught artist whose vibrant and radiant paintings exude joy and hope. His art serves as a beacon of compassion, urging kindness and solidarity among humanity. Tesprit's unique medium consists of repurposed slippers salvaged from Lomé's dumps, each imbued with its own tale of perseverance and bravery. Layered onto canvas, these soles depict scenes and gestures drawn from the streets of Lomé, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Dzimakplao.

“Through my work, I transport viewers to the contrasting realm of the Dzimakplao, Togo's homeless children, shedding light on their struggles and vulnerabilities, yet also capturing their resilience and optimism. These faceless figures, frozen in their everyday existence, serve as poignant reminders of the challenges faced by children in our modern era.”