Art + Design x Life
Who Is Toby Leon?
I'm a jack of all trades, master of some. That used to be a bad thing. Considered reckless by many. Most, in fact. Lacking consistency. Unreliable. Without a north star. Now, almost 30 years into this recklessness, it's become my greatest asset.
Like A Local
I wrote over 60 reviews of Sydney's culinary scene, nightlife & shopping highlights. Introducing aspects of my home to the world they won't find in guidebooks—beyond the sun, surf and postcards.
Not In Print
I helped thousands of people laugh, cry, and be inspired by stories from some of Australia's finest playwrights. Guests included Andrew Bovell, Lally Katz, Kate Mulvany, Louis Nowra, Debra Oswald, Alana Valentine and David Williamson.
M.C.L Lookbooks
In an industry fixated on trends, my role was to make Matthew's vision shine, which means rich and thoughtful copy. Matthew and I pushed the envelope, whether we were showcasing his latest collection or avant-garde archive in a new light.
Jandamarra App
I helped bring theatre studies to life. Curating the digital extension of Steve Hawke's play: on stage, behind the scenes and in production. In a culturally illuminating, emotionally stirring, and linguistically captivating extension of his story.
Cue The Chorus
I worked with 17 renowned playwrights to reframe famous plays via potent, visceral, personal responses. A take on theatre we don't get nearly enough: celebrated voices honoring, dissecting, and elevating the classics through today's lens.
Can Your Agency
Digital marketing agencies rely on keeping you in house. My A - B solutions set CEOs free. Think big-business reach, minus the infrastructure. Wrap all that up, and what have you got? Your very own Swiss Army Knife.
The Doll iOS App
A holistic, curated experience of Australia's most well known play, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll by Ray Lawler. Ground-breaking, multi-award winning iOS app extending the play's resonance within the Australian dramatic canon.
Jewelled Garden
Acclaimed jewellery designer, Matthew Campbell Laurenza spent 3 years on this art project that brings to life 15 unique sculptures inspired by flora and fauna. I crafted an origin story for each resident, and produced the collection's lookbook.
Secret River App
I helped the world of theatre studies evolve with the introduction of the Secret River enhanced eBook. A rich new chapter for this contemporary classic by Andrew Bovell, adapted from Kate Grenville's novel.
Staging Asylum
I helped bring this anthology of scripts to life by layering in curated content from scholars, politicians and asylum seekers themselves. Offering a deeper and more holistic understanding of the challenges asylum seekers and refugees face.
Wall 2 Wall
A local art competition I conceived, pitched and coordinated for Leichhardt Council in its inaugural year. Harnessing the power of art to change our day-to-day environment. Went on to run for 10 years and transform the landscape of my local municipality.