Made by Bears, For Bears: The Bear107 Story about Tomasz’s Journey

He is the bear behind Bear 107, known as Tom – originally Tomasz – known to many today as the “Polish Bear” living in London. However, his journey here began in a completely different world. He was born in Krakow, but he grew up in the small town of Trzebinia. His childhood, though filled with the warmth of wonderful parents, siblings, and neighbourhood friends, took place during the waning years of Communism. It was a world of absurdities that younger generations now only see in the films of Stanisław Bareja—a world of endless queues, food rations, and the daily struggle for basic goods. Paradoxically, those hardships shaped his resilience and the sensitivity he carries with him to this day.

Music has always been a vital element of his life. It shaped his emotional depth; it’s the reason why, even as a man in his fifties, he was not afraid to feel deeply or shed a tear. His coming of age coincided with a historical turning point—the fall of the Berlin Wall and the opening of Europe. Although he started his professional life trained as a locksmith and welder, he quickly realised that this path provided no satisfaction. He knew he needed a profound change.

The turning point came when he moved to Krakow and met Adam, his long-term partner and dear friend, who played a significant role in his life. Although Krakow at the time still struggled with tolerance toward the gay community, it offered a sense of freedom he couldn’t find in the provinces. It was there that his childhood fascination with art and photography truly came to life. Graduating from the Academy of Photography in Krakow allowed him to master the technical craft, but, more importantly, it helped him build the aesthetic vision and sense of beauty that now define his work in London.

Luka Musicki (L.M.): Welcome, Tom, to the interview. I understand that you are busy running a great bear business with the merchandise and social media activities, so I appreciate the time that you have to entertain this interview. When I asked you for the question, you were surprised to be asked and if you were interested in the interview. But when we get deeper into the interview, the audience and you will know why I asked you. How are you feeling, and are you ready?

Tomasz Piorkowski (T.P.): To be honest, yes—I was surprised. When you’re living life at a fast pace, balancing photoshoots, designing new merchandise for bear107, and staying connected with people on social media, you rarely stop to think of yourself as someone whose story might inspire others. It was a lovely surprise and a great boost of positive energy.

I feel excited, but also very humbled by the path I’ve travelled. From a locksmith’s workshop in small-town Trzebinia to a photography studio in London—it has been a long journey with many twists and turns. Am I ready? Absolutely. I’m curious to see where these questions take us because, as you mentioned, perhaps through this conversation, I’ll discover something new about myself, too. Let’s begin!

L.M.: Tom, you’ve told us about your roots and your childhood in Trzebinia, which undoubtedly shaped you. I’d like to move now to the moment you moved to Krakow, Poland’s cultural capital. It was there that your life truly took on a new spectrum of colour. How did this Krakow chapter influence your identity? In that artistic environment, when did you feel ready to fully come out as gay, and how did you find your place within the unique, warm-hearted ‘Bear’ community?”

T.P.: Moving to Krakow was like opening a window in a stifling room. It was there, in the shadow of Wawel Castle and the narrow alleys of Kazimierz, that I began to piece my identity together. Adam—my long-term partner and closest friend—played a pivotal role in this. Thanks to his support and our shared life in Krakow, the process of coming out stopped being a struggle and became a natural stage of my maturity. Adam gave me the sense of security I needed to stop looking over my shoulder.

The Krakow Academy of Photography was another turning point. The artistic community in Krakow has always been more open and progressive than the rest of the country. There, no one judged me through the lens of my orientation—what mattered was how I looked through the camera lens, my sensitivity, and whether I could capture the truth about another person. It was at the Academy that my “Bear” aesthetic really began to take shape, but my true baptism of fire was working in the field. I had the privilege of collaborating with one of Krakow’s theatres, where I was responsible for promotional photography and documenting live performances. Working in the theatre taught me a deep respect for light and a sense of timing. Photographing actors in high-emotion scenes, where there are no second takes, is an incredible school of intuition. You have to anticipate movement, feel the tension on stage, and capture it all in a single frame. That theatrical sensitivity—knowing how to build drama within a photo and how to play with shadows—still stays with me in every project I do in London today. This blend of Krakow’s freedom, the Academy’s technique, and the magic of the theatre laid the foundation for everything I do today.

These experiences—from the theatre to exhibitions in the heart of Kazimierz—shaped me as an artist. However, my Krakow story would not be complete without the people who became my chosen family. I’m thinking of Karol and Andrzej—wonderful friends who played a huge role in my life.

It was thanks to them that Adam and I began exploring Krakow’s nightlife together, a scene that pulsed with freedom and authenticity. It was in their company, within the atmosphere of Krakow’s clubs and gatherings, that I began to fully define myself as a “Bear.” Karol and Andrzej showed me that community is not just about shared values, but about the joy of being yourself without any filters. To this day, they remain my closest friends, whom I always visit whenever I return to Krakow. They remind me that no matter how far I go in London, my heart will always have its harbour in Krakow.

But our adventure wasn’t just about the city—it was also about the mountains. Together with a group of friends, we created an informal group called “Sväte Mišie” (Holy Bears). We found the name on a trail in the Tatra Mountains, and under that banner, we organised treks and trips to Slovak thermal baths. Those were moments of true male solidarity. To this day, many members of “Sväte Mišie” actively participate in the life of the Bears of Poland association. All of this provided the foundation I needed to take the next leap.

L.M.: And so you are living in London now. What is the bear community and culture like in the UK vs. back in Poland? And you work at Thames, a vibrant arts complex; it must be great to have great scenery, right?

T.P.: Moving to London felt like jumping into the deep end, but in the most inspiring way possible. When it comes to the Bear community, the difference between Poland and the UK is vast, mainly due to scale and history. In Poland, despite the incredible heart and passion of the people, the community often still has to fight for visibility and acceptance. In London, Bear culture is woven into the very fabric of the city—it’s established, confident, and incredibly diverse. Here, being a “Bear” isn’t just a subculture; it’s a lifestyle celebrated at every turn, from dedicated venues to major events.

I currently work at Thames-Side Studios, the largest artistic complex in London, situated right on the banks of the Thames. Having a studio in such a place is a dream come Celine for any creator. The view of the river, the industrial character of the area, and the knowledge that I am surrounded by hundreds of other artists, sculptors, and designers give me an incredible creative boost. London, with its architecture and that specific, silvery light over the water, has become my new canvas.

It was here, in this global melting pot, that the bear107 project was born. Most importantly, it wasn’t just my idea. It is our joint creation—Adam’s and mine. Together, we realised we wanted to blend our Polish roots, the Kraków school of aesthetics, and our newly discovered British freedom to create something that connects people regardless of where they come from.

It was vital to us that bear107 be more than just a brand—it’s a manifesto of our shared journey and our pride in being “Polish Bears” in the heart of the metropolis. London taught us that our identity is a massive asset, something to be proud of and something we can transform into a professional, artistic vision. Working at Thames-Side Studios, with a view of the river and surrounded by hundreds of other creators, gives us the daily drive to grow this vision together.

L.M.: And now let’s talk about bear 107. So, it was ’two creative bears from the Baltic, passionate about art, textures, photography, nature and culture. Expressed through our jewellery, wood, photographs, fabrics, and fashion, no boundaries, just expressions and joy”. Now you know why I am interested in this interview. So tell us about the brief history of bear 107. Where did you get bear 107 from – what does it mean, and why bear 107? When was it established? And why in London, and not Poland?

T.P.: Although the idea for a joint project had been brewing in our minds for a long time, it was life—and a rather difficult situation—that pushed us into action. bear107 was born in the shadow of the pandemic. At the same time, both Adam and I lost our jobs and faced massive uncertainty. However, we aren’t the type of people who can sit idly by. Instead of giving up, we decided to build something of our own, something dedicated to the Bear community.

Our dreams began to materialise thanks to the support of the wonderful people we met in London. It’s impossible to name everyone, but I must mention Carlos and Shaun. It is thanks to their incredible kindness and help that we found a space for our creative work, and for me personally, a new place to live and friends I can always rely on.

Our name comes directly from that space. Our first shared workspace was Studio 107 at Thames-Side Studios. And that is exactly how bear107 came to be—born out of a need to create, a passion for craftsmanship, and the number on the door where our new London adventure began. Why London? Because it was here that we found the people and the conditions that allowed us to turn a crisis into a brand we are proud of today.

L.M.: So let’s go into yourself. In addition to being the co-founder of Bear 107, you are an artist, photographer, and designer. How did you get into these professions, and what is your style in them? Do you mostly do them in Bear 107, or do you have a portfolio of your artwork? 

T.P.: My journey to becoming a designer and photographer was a natural evolution—from mastering technique at the Krakow Academy of Photography and the discipline of light in theatre, to the absolute creative freedom that London provides. I would describe my style as “raw elegance.” I am fascinated by textures—from the roughness of concrete and London’s industrial architecture to the authenticity of the human body, especially within the “Bear” aesthetic.

At bear107, both Adam and I act as designers, but what makes our brand unique is that we have completely different creative temperaments. Even though we create under one brand, our designs have distinct characters. Adam specialises in minimalist designs, often with a subtle, clever subtext—these are pieces for those who appreciate understated forms and hidden meanings. I, on the other hand, love playing with form—my designs are more graphic, rich in detail and colour. I love experimenting with the visual side of design, making it eye-catching and letting it tell a more complex story. This makes bear107 a dialogue between two different aesthetics that complement each other perfectly.

As a photographer, I pursue my own artistic projects beyond working on our collections. I specialise in portraiture, searching for the truth within my subjects against the industrial backdrop of Thames-Side Studios. I also offer unique “Editorial Walks” through London, where I connect people with the city’s architecture. My portfolio, available on my website and Instagram, is a record of my constant search for beauty in maturity and authenticity.

L.M.: And with your co-founder, Adam, he is an artist, designer, and resin art master. How and where did you two meet each other and decide, “let’s do bear 107”?

T.P.: Our story began in a rather unusual, and today almost legendary, way. We met about 25 years ago, at a time when the internet was a rarity in Poland, and dating apps were something no one even dreamed of. Our “intermediary” was… Teletext on one of the national TV channels! That’s where we exchanged our first messages. I honestly don’t remember now if Adam replied to my ad or if I replied to his, but that’s how it all started. Then came the first meetings, shared plans, and finally the decision to move in together in Krakow.

From this moment on, Adam became an inseparable part of my life—my partner and my best friend. For years, we supported each other in our individual artistic paths, but it was London and the pandemic situation that became the catalyst for us to create something together.

The decision—”Let’s do this, let’s create bear107″—was made when we both felt that as a duo, we had something unique to offer the world. Adam is a true master at working with resin and form; his objects are like small sculptures, crafted with incredible precision. I brought in my photographer’s eye and a passion for graphics. Sitting in our Studio 107, we realised that our vastly different approaches—his minimalism and subtext, and my love for detail and colour—created a new artistic quality. It was a natural decision: since we’ve shared a life and values for a quarter of a century, it was time to share our passion with the community we love.

L.M.: And you are the master behind the camera, taking all of those photographs. How do you decide on the artistic direction of the photographs taken for the advertisement and promotion of bear 107? 

T.P.: As a photographer, I am always searching for a balance between rawness and authenticity, but pressing the shutter is only the final stage of a long process. When deciding on the artistic direction of our shoots, I focus primarily on building the atmosphere long before I even pick up the camera.

For me, every detail matters, starting with a shared conversation over coffee. I have to make the model feel at home in our studio—free from unnecessary formalities, completely relaxed and at ease. That is the key to great photos. I always say that a photo session isn’t about the photographer or the model—it’s about what happens between them. That is the real story.

It doesn’t matter if it’s product photography for bear107 or artistic portraits for our calendar, which receives great acclaim every year. I don’t like using the word “customer”—we aren’t a bakery. We create for our friends who support our small business and understand our aesthetic. Every session is a celebration of mature masculinity in its purest form. And since I could talk about photography for hours, I’d better leave it at that, hahaha!

L.M.: I have to say you are very handsome and a great model for the organisation. You know how to pose for the camera, feel confident in your own skin, and you do a great job covering the bear joey (penis) and showing the merchandise in a very sexy way compared to other bear merchandise stores that stock standard merchandise. How did you know how to model/pose with ease, and why did you decide to be the model for the merchandise (instead of some other bears)?

T.P.: Thank you so much for those words—compliments are always nice, and like anyone, I have that little bit of vanity in me, as long as it doesn’t become my dominant trait, hahaha!

The truth is, however—contrary to appearances—I don’t always feel completely at ease in front of the camera. That’s exactly why I have such profound admiration for the people who come to me, often a total stranger to them, and pose exactly as nature made them. I have immense respect for that kind of courage. Fifteen years ago, I couldn’t even imagine being capable of such a thing—posing in my “birthday suit” felt as distant to me then as the stars in the sky.

The key to that breakthrough was self-acceptance and a sense of self-worth—understanding who I am and what I represent. Therefore, the decision to stand in front of the lens myself was a natural extension of the bear107 philosophy. We wanted to showcase our products—from clothing to jewellery—in a way that is bold, sensual, and yet full of class. Many shops treat Bear gadgets very superficially; we, on the other hand, want to celebrate a masculinity that isn’t ashamed of its body or its sexuality.

I decided to become a model for our brand because who better to capture the spirit of this project than one of its creators? Posing with “Joey the Bear” or presenting the merchandise in a way you call sexy is, for me, a form of artistic performance. I want to show other men in our community that maturity and being a “Bear” are huge assets. I feel confident in my own skin because I’ve travelled a long road from a locksmith’s workshop in Trzebinia to a studio in London. That confidence is simply the acceptance of my own history. I’m not “some other bear”—I am myself, and bear107 is my truth.

L.M.: So tell us about your tattoos. You have a bear tattoo on your left shoulder and a lion tattoo on your right arm. What is the significance of them? When did you get them, and would you get any more tattoos? 

T.P.: My tattoos are personal totems. On my left shoulder, I have the Bear. I got it when I felt that this identity had become an integral part of who I am. It symbolises peace, inner strength, and a protective nature. Since the left side is closer to the heart, it represents my emotional side and my sensitivity. There’s a special story behind it—I asked my niece to design and tattoo it. She has an incredible talent, but still lacks the confidence to pursue her dream of becoming a professional tattoo artist. I wanted to show her how much I believe in her and give her the courage to fight for her dreams.

On my right shoulder, I have the Lion. It’s a symbol of courage, determination, and the fight for one’s place in the world. I got it at a moment when I needed that “lion-like strength” to move forward, find my way in a new country, and build everything from scratch in London. The lion is my “active” side—a person who isn’t afraid of challenges and keeps his feet firmly on the ground. Besides, Leo is my zodiac sign; it also reflects my great love for cats, their independence, and their pride.

What’s very important to me is that this tattoo was a gift from Adam and his partner at the time, John. It was a gesture of support that helped me a lot back then. Thanks, guys, hahaha!

These two animals on my shoulders create a balance between gentleness and power. And while I feel a sense of harmony for now, life has taught me that every new, significant lesson might one day be etched into my skin. So, there will definitely be more tattoos! I already have some concepts in mind that are slowly maturing, but they still need to be fully refined… Everything in its own time.

L.M.: Are you and Bear 107 part of the Brighton Bear community? 

T.P.: Officially, we are not part of the Brighton Bear structure, but we feel incredibly closely connected to the organisation. Our relationship is multifaceted—we are proud to support them as sponsors of the Mr Brighton Bear Weekend contest, but our contribution is also purely artistic. We’ve had the pleasure of designing several official graphics for BBW, which was a fantastic opportunity for us to blend our aesthetic with the energy of the event.

Unfortunately, due to objective reasons, we cannot always attend the weekend in person, but we are always there in spirit and heart. Brighton holds a very special place in our lives. For us, it’s like a “family home” that you return to whenever time allows. Every time we are there, we feel that incredible energy and know that we love this place with all our hearts. It is in Brighton where we recharge our batteries for further work in our London studio.

L.M.: How do you keep yourself in great bear shape? You have a good fur coverage, a clean short beard, and a strong physique (as I say this like Homer drooling over the imagination of food). Do you agree with the body positivity of how you look and how you can shape other bears to feel comfortable in their own skin publicly? Would you say being a bear has helped your career? Is your audience primarily bears for work and life?

T.P.: (Laughs) Thank you so much for such a vivid compliment! I have to admit, maintaining my “bear form” is a mix of genetics, self-discipline, and… peace of mind. My fur and beard are simply nature, which I tend to with the same precision Adam applies to his resin designs. As for my physique, years of manual labour, followed by regular gym sessions, keep me feeling strong and fit. But the most important thing is what’s in my head.

I wholeheartedly support the Body Positivity movement. My journey toward self-acceptance was a long one—after all, I come from a time when “bears” in Poland were rarely spoken of in such a positive light. Today, when I step in front of the lens for bear107, I want to send a clear message: Maturity is sexy. Authenticity is strength.

How do I make other bears feel comfortable? Primarily by being visible. When other guys see a 50-year-old proudly showing his body, tattoos, and hair, they get a signal that they can do it too. At bear107, we don’t create clothes to hide something—we create them to highlight character. I want everyone who wears our pieces or stands before my camera to feel that their “bearness” isn’t something to be tolerated, but something to be celebrated. Being comfortable in your own skin is the greatest luxury we can afford.

L.M.: Would you say being a bear has helped your career? Is your audience primarily bears for work and life?

T.P.: Has being a Bear helped me in my career? Definitely. The “Bear” identity has, above all, given me a sense of belonging and authenticity, which are the foundations of any honest business. When you create something for a community that you are a part of yourself, you don’t have to pretend. People feel that. bear107 wouldn’t exist if I didn’t love this aesthetic and these people.

As for my audience—yes, for the most part, it is Bears and their admirers. They are the heart of our brand, and they are who Adam and I design for. However, I am immensely pleased by the fact that our “raw elegance” and quality of craftsmanship also attract people from outside this group who simply appreciate good, original design and a sincere message. It is proof that our art can build bridges.

In my private life? Naturally, my social circle is largely within the Bear community, but my relationships are based primarily on values, not just appearance. I am lucky that in London—and previously in Krakow—I have always been surrounded by people for whom friendship isn’t just an empty word. It’s something you don’t necessarily say out loud, but you feel it whenever the need arises. These are people you care about deeply, for whom you’re willing to sacrifice a piece of yourself or give your last penny. In Poland, we have a saying that with people like that, you could “steal horses together,” but since this is for Bear Magazine, let’s say instead that with them, I could “steal bears,” hahaha!

For me, being a Bear is a state of mind: confidence, brotherhood, and mutual support. And it is precisely this energy that fuels everything I do—from the first morning coffee in Studio 107 to the final click of the shutter during a session.

L.M.: Is there any advice that you would give someone (like a bear) who would be interested in doing photography and a business in merchandise, and what is involved?

T.P.: My advice for anyone who wants to try their hand in front of the lens or start building their own brand is simple: Start by being yourself, without apologising for who you are, and don’t give up!

What does it involve? Above all, it’s a process of shedding other people’s expectations. We often think we need to look a certain way to fit “standards”—even those within the Bear community. My advice is: stop searching for perfection and start searching for authenticity. If you want to stand in front of a camera, don’t practice poses in the mirror. Find a photographer with whom you can have that symbolic coffee I mentioned, someone who lets you feel at ease.

Remember, the camera sees more than just your body; it sees your energy. If you accept your story—from being a locksmith in Trzebinia to an artist in London—that confidence will radiate from every photo. Don’t be afraid of the details, don’t be afraid of maturity, and don’t be afraid of your “bearness.” These are your assets, not flaws.

My technical advice? Be patient. Good design and good photography take time, just like a good friendship. Don’t look for shortcuts. Build your brand and your image on truth, loyalty, and passion. And if you feel fear—that’s good. It means you’re doing something that matters. Just take a deep breath and, as we say, go “steal bears” with your people!

L.M.: What are your career goals for the future?

T.P.: My goals for the future are clear, though they require time and that patience I mentioned earlier. We want to keep growing as bear107, introducing something new, fresh designs, and products so that every item tells a story and is worn with pride as a manifesto of mature masculinity. I care deeply about the uniqueness of everything we create.

In terms of photography, I am currently working hard on my new website, piorkovski.com, which will be available soon. It will be a place where you can not only book a photo session with me but also view my artistic works and purchase original prints, photographs, or albums. I want my art to be accessible to those who share a similar aesthetic.

Personally and professionally, my goal is to continue building our space at Thames-Side Studios. I want Studio 107 to be a place for meetings, exchange of ideas, and creative energy, where everyone feels at home. I want to continue to surround myself with the people I love and prove that, after fifty, your artistic and professional life can be more exciting than ever. For me, the future is simply a continuation of this honest path I’ve been walking for years.

L.M.: Is there anything else that you would like to add in that I have missed?

T.P.: Is there anything else I’d like to add? Perhaps just that every Sunday, you can find me at one of the London markets, right next to the famous Columbia Road Flower Market. I have my own stall there with clothes and accessories. To be honest, this particular activity isn’t strictly related to Bear culture—well, except for the many bears who frequently visit the area, hahaha, and me! But as we say in Poland: “Man does not live by bread alone.”

For me, these Sundays are an opportunity to gain a different perspective, chat with people from all over the world, and feel the heartbeat of London outside the studio walls. It’s another piece of the puzzle in building my own multi-dimensional path.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank the author of this interview (Luka Musicki) for the invitation and the opportunity to share my story. A very special and huge thank you goes to Steve from Bears Cub Chasers and the Blackpool events team, as well as the team at The Kings Arms in Soho – the oldest bear pub in London. Thank you for your support and for creating all these unique spaces for our community.

My thanks go to all my friends whom I haven’t managed to mention by name—you know that without you, I wouldn’t be where I am today. A big thank you to everyone who supports bear107 and my work as a photographer. Thank you to my followers on Instagram and Facebook for every kind word. And of course, with a wink—thank you for all the marriage proposals, hahaha! See you in London, in Brighton, in Blackpool, or somewhere behind the lens!

L.M.: Thank you, Tom, for your valuable time to participate and answer the formal questions for the interview with me. Now it is time for some quick-fire questions to conclude the interview.

• Location: London, UK
• Pronouns: He/Him
• Relationship status: It’s complicated,… with my camera and my studio! (Hahaha)
• Favourite Drink: A strong, black coffee in the morning at Studio 107, and a good Gin & Tonic in the evening.
• What type of guy are you into? I value authenticity and kindness. I like men who are comfortable in their own skin, have a passion for something, and a good sense of humour. I consider myself lucky because, when it comes to physicality, I am very open-minded. I love intimacy with big guys like bears, but I’m just as attracted to smaller chasers. For me, chemistry is the most important thing—it’s what truly matters.
• Favourite Cities/Vacation Spots: I have places I hold very dear to my heart. Krakow, where I’m from and where my family is, and Brighton, where we feel right at home, but by the sea, hahaha! I’ve also fallen in love with Turkey lately—my thanks to Mr S. for that. We all know there are countless beautiful places in the world, but they only truly come to life when you can share that beauty with the people you love!
• Favourite Hobby or Pastime: Obviously photography and design, but also wandering through London’s markets and discovering hidden gems in the city. Music is also a huge part of my life—I listen to all sorts of genres, ranging from heavy death metal to the almost poetic, ethereal sounds of Ane Brun. It often sets the rhythm for my work in the studio.
• Idea of a good date? I haven’t got a clue! Maybe that’s why I’m still single, hahahah!
• What do you value in a man? Above all, respect and sensitivity. I truly value men for whom “I” isn’t always the top priority—those who can see the other person and place the relationship above their own ego. I’m impressed by simple, human gestures: someone who gives up their seat on a tram for an elderly person or helps a neighbour carry their groceries. I look for someone who is authentic and natural, with all their virtues and flaws… because yes, even I have those, hahahah!
• Where can we find more about you:
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bear107shop
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bear107shop/
  • instagram https://www.instagram.com/tompiorkovski/
  • Website: https://bear107.com/
  • Work Email: shop@bear107.com 

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