Izzi Tooinsky
Izzi Tooinsky, King of Hotdogastan
In celebration of the release of his newest book A Teenagers Compass to Life - Proverbs, Sayings, Quotes & Jokes to Help Point the Way, we took a moment with local juggler, storyteller, author and self-proclaimed Fool Izzi Tooinsky.
Like anyone who is inspired by the world and finds themself taking those leaps of faith that art so often requires, Tooinsky’s journey began with self reflection.
“When I was growing up many people said to me ‘You’re a fool. You’re a fool.’ So I asked God and the Universe, ‘Am I a fool?’ And the answer, overwhelmingly, was ‘Yes my dear. You are a Fool.’ I began to meet other fools. I read everything I could about fools. I contemplated and meditated about the value of fools. Finally, I completely embraced being a fool, and oh my goodness, what a great Fool's Journey it’s been.”
If you are at all familiar with the great lineage of Fools that Tooinsky hails from, then it comes as no surprise his creative process is born from play. “I play when I’m with others. I play when I’m traveling. I play in silence. Through that play, creativity and guidance water my artistic garden.”
Tooinksy finds inspiration in everything-from flowers to fig trees, the joy of his grandchildren, his wife and “the amazing symphony of silence.” He loves the balance of pride and humility that can be found in the many artists and creators of Nevada County. “I am inspired by two guitar players locally: Jim Bratt and Louis Valentine Johnson. Their passion for life is met by their skill in playing,” shares Tooinsky, who brings this same balance of energies to his own work and life.
With upcoming engagements in Nevada City and Yuma Arizona, Tooinsky is excited to share his new book with the world.
This story originally appeared in the September 3rd, 2024 edition of the GVNC Culture Connection newsletter.