On Druid Street, among the breweries and bars, you’ll find Token Studio – a creative space where director Jing Xue hosts workshops with the goal of creating unforgettable experiences where you can learn new skills and connect with others.
“The essence of Token Studio is in the name itself,” she says, “creating something meaningful that can be cherished.”
Jing tells The Biscuit about how the business has evolved over the past 12 years, its home under SE1’s arches, and what creativity means to her.
The Biscuit: What is the story of Token Studio?
Jing Xue: Token Studio was born from my lifelong passion for art and creativity. Since I was young, I’ve been immersed in various forms of art – sketching, drawing, painting, crafting and sculpting. Creating with my hands has always been an important part of my life, inspired largely by my parents who nurtured my creativity.
After moving to the UK to pursue my master’s degree in art at Chelsea College of Arts, I wanted to share my knowledge and passion with others. That desire led to the founding of Token Studio, with a mission to make art and creativity accessible to all.
What is your background and how does it tie into Token Studio now?
My background spans a wide range of artistic disciplines, from traditional fine arts to hands-on crafts. My studies and diverse experiences across various media have helped shape Token Studio into what it is today.
My aim has always been to show that all forms of art and craft are interconnected. At Token Studio, I channel this belief into offering workshops that allow people to explore different creative avenues, no matter their level of experience.
You host such a wide variety of sessions; can you explain more about what you offer at Token Studio?
We offer many workshops, which are all designed to inspire creativity and make the artistic journey accessible. We cater to all ages, skill levels and backgrounds. From painting and drawing to crafting and sculpting, there’s something for everyone.
Our workshops are designed to ensure people feel that entering the creative world is easy, without needing the years of training I went through. Whether it’s learning to paint, making your own beauty products or creating pottery, participants leave with a sense of accomplishment and joy.
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How do you approach the design of each workshop?
The most important part of designing a workshop is listening to what people want to achieve and then helping them realise those goals through clear, step-by-step instructions.
Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to encouraging creativity is giving people the confidence to enjoy the process and to celebrate even small achievements.
Our workshops focus on having fun while learning something new, and I always aim to make creativity feel natural and approachable.
What is creativity to you?
For me, creativity is about freedom of expression and visualising your potential. It’s about being able to make something tangible from an idea, and it’s something that everyone can experience if given the right guidance and environment.
What type of occasion is most suited to a session at Token Studio?
People can easily book a session online to join any of our workshops. Token Studio is perfect for a variety of events, whether it’s for birthdays, weddings or corporate team-building activities.
We believe in gathering people together to create something meaningful, rather than simply chatting over social media. Our sessions encourage bonding over creativity, making them perfect for any occasion where connection and fun are the goals.
Why is Druid Street so great for what you do at Token Studio?
It is a vibrant area filled with great energy. The street and nightlife, including the Bermondsey Beer Mile, as well as the nearby offices, residents and its proximity to London Bridge station, make it an ideal location. It’s accessible and lively, which all contribute to the creative atmosphere at Token Studio.
I love the combination of cultures and backgrounds that Bermondsey offers, too. The area is rich in history, from the vintage markets and old warehouses to the beautiful Thames riverside. It’s a unique and attractive part of London, and the diversity here is something I find truly inspiring.
76 Druid Street, SE1 2AN
