Growing up in a small, conservative, touristy New Hampshire town, Tim had the fortunate experience of coming of age on the campus of a prep school. Within an otherwise narrow landscape, this academic community provided substantial intellectual and cultural influences, which would ultimately become the foundation for his creativity. In the early 80’s, he was consumed by the second wave of Skateboarding, as well as in the emergence of Hip Hop, Reggae and Punk Rock into popular culture. These influences fused into his attitude and aesthetic sensibility, which still resonates with him today.

Tim first began his education and exploration of the arts while in high school at The Rhode Island School of Design summer studies program. While at R.I.S.D. the seed was planted for Tim’s creative life pursuits. He went on to study at the Syracuse School of Visual and Performing Arts where he received his BFA, studying illustration design and fine art painting. Tim then moved to Chicago to enhance his personal style with the study of Buddhist Art at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Trading the windy winter streets of Chicago for the big blue skies of Boulder, Colorado, he began an apparel design company. The result of this endeavor was clothing which reflected influences in everything from skateboarding the urban streets of Boston to the catwalks of Milan.

Having set the foundation for DIA SIN Threadesigns, Tim returned to his love of painting and graphic design under the name Timo Hanley(tee-mo) in 2005. His decision was immediately validated by a jury headed by Ralph Steadman, for the Flying Dog Beer Company in receiving recognition for his design work. In turn, a symbiotic effort of professional pursuits has evolved. Tim is now professionally pursuing three of his passions: fashion design, graphic design and painting.

© 2007 t.hanley smith. all rights reserved.