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table of contents Letter From The Publisher Page 6 Credits Page 6 Artistic Sole Page 23 Astoria Page 40 Canvas King Page 21 DunkXchange Page 19 E The Custom Queen Page 9 Female Sneaker Fiend Page 17 Fetti Page 40 Fresh Soles Page 22 Future Kicks Page 34 Grand High Page 32 HeavyKickers Page 14 Hi Calorie Page 13 Hi Powered Page 32 Holyzapatos Page 40 HOT ISH! Page 30-31 Hy Society Page 40 International Sneaker Battle Page 19 J Row (Elite Customs) Page 34 Jus Ink Page 13
KickBallers Page 8 Kosher Klassics Page 37 Kustom Kid Page 16 Mache Customs Page 34 Metik Designs Page 29 Pastry Page 42 Phase 9 Media Page 36 Platinum Act Page 14 Rebellion Customs Page 12 Sekure D Page 28 Shonda The Designer Page 35 SmoothTip Page 38-39 Sole Junkie Page 13 Tagur Page 34 Tradition Page 8 TTK Page 17 UnCutt Ink Page 14 Urban Dwellers Page 10-11 Yourkicks.net Page 23
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50 50 ways you know you’re a SNEAKERHEAD...
so you think your a sneakerhead? these 50 facts will let you know if you truly are. ---look for the sneaker!
write ups on pg 40
letter from the publisher
In order to stay ahead of the pack, sometimes you have to Deviate from the current trends. In our effort to deviate from what is expected in urban Culture, DV8 Magazine proudly presents the 2007 Custom Sneaker Commemorative Issue. This entire magazine is dedicated to the sneaker culture, its rising superstars, and veterans who were there to see it all begin. In these pages, we aim to satisfy the true school tastes of the big time sneaker collector, to the custom sneaker designers, and the causal fan of such designs and collections.
Hoodie Provided by Afro Wear Pants Provided by Eklectik Genes Shoes Provided by Myster E-Man Designs
From the beginning of the mid-80’s, when sneaker collecting grew from a part-time hobby Into a serious pastime, due to the sneaker companies partnering with the top athletes of that era to produce signature shoes, custom shoe design has moved into the forefront, with designers fully creating custom pieces that have landed them contracts with the major sneaker retailers to providing custom work for today’s hottest celebrities, exclusive deals with sports franchises, and making the average collector’s sneaker game come to life at the high price. In the meantime, get to know more about your favorite sneaker designers and what inspired them to add their flavor to breathe life into an ordinary pair of kicks. The response and anticipation has been overwhelming for this issue, so be on the lookout for future Sneaker Issues from DV8 Magazine.
Credits -Publisher/EIC: Desmick Perkins -Staff Writers: Shadeed Eleazer, Ashanti White -Contributing Writers: Marquita Gonzalez, Zach Spicer, Melisa Stewart, Sherry Williams -Design/Layout: New Pyro Studio www.newpyrostudio.com ignite@newpyrostudio.com Creative Director-Steve White Assistant Designer-Clayton Holloway -Photographers: Drew Crozier, Derick Ross -Deviate Publishing, Inc. 1744 Alvarado Terrace Atlanta, Georgia 30310 P: 1.877.605.1976 Projects include... How We Ride Magazine: www.hwrmag.com Crunk Magazine: www.crunk-magazine.com Crunk Magazine West Coast: www.myspace.com/crunkwestcoast SEA The Magazine: www.myspace.com/seamag
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E the Custom Queen by: Melissa Stewart
You wouldn’t expect a chic to be designing a pair of sneakers, but Erica Purnell of Pink Eye Personalizations is also known as the E the Custom Queen and wants you to know that she’s more than a CEO and designer. She’s an artist and a visionary that’s flippin’ raw talent into the business world. “I represent hip hop the culture. I’m here to make a lasting impression, not to be a fad that is created superficially to make you like me, or the movement I represent,” she says Brooklyn bred, E the Custom Queen created Pink Eye Personalizations in ’03 as a way to offer unique wearable artwork. Spoken like a true artist, “It is our goal to be original with each design and offer our customer designs that fit them as individuals. We believe everyone has an inner expression that needs to be set free and seen to the world.” E the Custom Queen provides custom airbrush and hand-painted designs for sneakers, shoes, hats, jackets, t-shirts and even more. She also provides graphic services for silk-screen projects and specializes in unique image transfers. While providing expertise in artistic custom service, she believes that everyone is an artist in their own way. Pink Eye Personalizations is here to help you elevate the artistic person within you through fashion. In an effort to keep the look fresh and stylish, the E Custom Queen advises you care for your kicks to prolong the life of your footwear. “We do not advise to wearing your custom products everyday. Custom work is special. The more usage on your custom product, the more likely it will fade out sooner.”
TRADITION is located at: 2895 Agoura Rd., Westlake Village, CA 91361.
tradition In response to the overwhelming demand for first-choice, hard-to-find streetwear collectables, Jason Gaines and Andrew Kline - formerly of Fred Segal Santa Monica - have cultivated the definitive streetwear boutique on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Calif., called TRADITION. Jason Gaines and Andrew Kline incepted TRADITION in 2006. Respectively, the ex-college basketball player and former member of the straight-edge band, Strife, first met as teenagers in Thousand Oaks, CA. Exceeding 15 years of combined retail experience, the two re-met while working as manager/buyer at Conveyor (Gaines) and S2 (Kline) at Fred Segal Santa Monica. Sharing a mutual respect for street culture lifestyle and its influencing factors, the pair cultivated TRADITION - a high-end streetwear boutique for men and women that provides distinguished sneaker, apparel and accessory labels including: Nike, Vans Vault, Vans by Marc Jacobs, Converse, Converse by John Varvatos and more. “TRADITION will cater to a cross section of shoppers - from sneaker aficionados to celebrities, fashionconscious youth and the like,” explains Andrew Kline. TRADITION co-owner, Jason Gaines, continues, “Now, our customers can get their hands on the most sought-after street wear items without having to sit in traffic or deal with online technicalities.” 8
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Kickballers is an innovative sneaker specialty shop and lifestyle oriented store, specializing in limited edition sneakers, footwear, clothing, skateboards, designer toys, bags, jewelry and accessories. Our Washington, D.C. storefront is located in a custom space designed to help revolutionize the market - a new home for playful adults and cutting edge fashion in the Georgetown shopping district. Envisioned and grinded out by Lanir Z, Diallo Sharif and Carlo Ignacio, Kickballers caters to those with the independent spirit who love to creatively express themselves through many different avenues.
www.myspace.com/kickballersdc
“Custom work done is waterproof, but wearing products in the rain or damp weather can attract dirt and other particles to your custom piece that you may wish to avoid…We also provide retouching and cleaning services.” E the Custom Queen had the honor to team up with Adidas during the Spring of 2006 when they hit the streets of NYC to promote the Adicolor. The traditional all white Adidas shoes were used along with a set of coloured weatherproof and quick drying markers allowing her to create original looks for customers on hand. You can see them going through the boroughs of New York on streaming video of the live street event by going to their MySpace page. “As a kid, I use to paint on my clothes all the time and draw cartoons and scribble my name all over the place. I never liked to go clothes shopping because of the repetition in fashion. It was then I wanted to make my own things. It was a way to be seen and heard without being verbal. You could feel my thoughts through my clothes.” says Purnell. And she’s not done. For the ladies, E the Custom Queen recognizes that women rock fly kicks just like the men do. Knowing that, she’s aligned her talents and with the Female Sneaker Fiend. This network of designers recognizes you are female and you’ve got some crazy passion about your sneaks! You might have tons of sneakers or only a few, but you might obsess about keeping them perfectly clean, lacing them just so, or rocking what nobody else has. So for you, go to www.femalesneakerfiend.com to see what they have in store for you. Finding E the Custom Queen won’t be hard. If you’re in NYC, you can find Pink Eye Personalizations in the building at Sneaker Pimps. Visit the Official Pink Eye Personalizations website: www.igotpinkeye.com Pink Eye Line: 646-213-9333 Email: info@igotpinkeye.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/igotpinkeye DID YOU CATCH IT YET?
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Urban Dwellers “Journey to Success” by: Sherry Williams
From high school days in LA, 1984 was the year when the talent sparked. Moving out there from NY “Zen One” linked up with a few classmates and started doing graphics. After relocating to Europe in the 11th grade, he lost touch with his fellow colleagues. Obtaining an Art Degree pushed him forward to wanting to pursue a career in design. After a trip around the world, and 6 years later, final destination South Florida, he met Hadji and Ska, and the Urban Dwellers were established. Influenced early on from his dad being an oil painter, he recalls another memorable moment, “Like the first time I remember seeing a train. It was the summer, and my mom and I were standing on the subway platform in NY and when the train pulled up, I saw this amazing piece by “Shy” 147 and that just kind of ignited the spark in me.” He says his technique comes natural such as lettersmithing and customization. Motivation to keep moving is what makes his designs unique and stands as the essential part of innovation. “Never stand still….it’s hard to hit a moving target.” Having the desire and willingness to accomplish both short and long term goals, is a reflection of his work. The biggest compliments have come from people who appreciate his work and love the designs especially other writers who want to wear them.
www.urbandwellers.org www.myspace.com/urbandwellerzkrew SN
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1. The first thing you notice on people are their shoes.
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2. When you walk into class, people occasionally say “another PAIR?!?” 3. The teachers even notice when you get new shoes. 4. Instead of taking the shortcut with your friends in the grass or dirt, you walk ALL the way around the cement. 5. Your parents get really mad when you get another pair of shoes.
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Rebellion Customs by: Ashanti White
In the most general sense, a rebellion is a refusal to accept authority. It may therefore be seen as encompassing a range of “Behaviour� behaviors from civil disobedience to a violent organized attempt to destroy established authority. Using that definition, Rebellion Customs undoubtedly chose the perfect name for their company. From their white and yellow demure styles to the uncompromising green that encompass the entire canvas, Rebellion is truly redefining the face of footwear. Dr. Bibble, Nameless Villain, and Skrybe, began designing sneakers years ago but the recent attention from Adidas and celebrities coupled with the overwhelming success of an online charity auction, the trio could no longer keep their talents a secret. They can turn a pair of ordinary white sneakers into a multilayered, multidimensional pair of custom kicks that are as unique as the individual they fashion the shoe for. Since their incorporation, Rebellion Customs has established a clientele that mirrors the slew of Grammy Award winners. Hip hop 12
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greats, Nas, Ludicris, Justin Timberlake, T.I., and Gnarls Barkley, are devoted customers. Even rock rebels, Anthony Keidis and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, have one of a kind kicks created by Rebellion. So how is the dynamic trio handling their success? In a word, beautifully. The talented yet humble brothers recently, donated sneakers for a wildly successful Ebay auction which benefited the Dilla Foundation, formed in honor of the late hip hop producer, J Dilla. Armed with talent, humility and overdue expansion into active wear, Rebellion customs will have a long run in this growing industry. After all, who can boast a resume like theirs in such a short time? Rebellion Customs is an innovative company of artists who work to bring a fresh, personalized approach to footwear and apparel. The entertainment community has long provided clothes; Rebellion filled the void of custom kicks to complement the outfits. And for that we are grateful. For more information visit: www.rebellisoncustoms.com www.myspace.com/rebellioncustoms
JUSK
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www.myspace.com/justinkinc
www.myspace.com/solejunkie
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talk of the town
PLATINUM ACT www.myspace.com/platinumact
heavy kickers www.theheavykickers.com
www.myspace.com/uncuttink
UN CUTT INK
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TTK by: Melissa Stewart A mystery for those on the outside looking in, the name TTK should be on the lips of anyone who thinks shoe art or custom sneakers is more than just apparel. Owner and creator Mike Harris got the custom bug a few years ago when reading a magazine and seeing another artists design. His sentiments were more like, “I can do this, and I can do it better.” Even as a kid, his creative side reared it little head when he began tagging bathroom walls and saved his allowance just to buy cans of Krylon. He too considers himself a hard core sneaker head and like many other successful artists, prefers quality over ‘hype’. When designing his shoes, he takes pride in being the go-to guy for designs for people who like to think outside the box. He draws his inspiration for all things. “I’m always challenging myself to do something different with each work I produce. I do this because I love to do art…What makes my shoes special is because they’re not shoes, they’re moving pieces of artwork. I put my life into each pair I do and each pair I do is a time capsule of my life and the way I think.” Besides sneakers, TTK is co-designer of the apparel line Black Cotton Collection see www.blackcottoncollection.com. With the hip hop nation being probably the most stylish genre out there, what they wear is so influential. “…I am hip hop. I didn’t grow up in New York but my knowledge of this culture is in depth. I’ve dug in the crates for records until my hands were black from dust. I can remember hearing Eric B. is President on cassette back in the 80’s. I’ve broken danced as a youth and had dreams of being a professional break dancer after I saw Beat Street.” TTK has provided design work for various recording artists, major shoe companies and customers worldwide. Each pair is a hand painted one of a kind original. You can bet that he never does the same shoe twice. How do you get a pair of artwork on the move? TTK’s work can be seen on his personal website, www.gottkgo.com where he also showcases a sample of his portfolio. www.myspace.com/gottkgo
female sneaker fiend by: Melissa Stewart
By: melissa stewart He’s no longer a ‘Kid’, but he’s all Kustom. Michael Williams is a genius with paint and the world is his canvas. Hailing from (of all places) Milwaukee, Kustom says it the home of ‘stylejackers’ because of the lack of creativity and individual flair. Back in the day, Kustom would mess around with paint just to be different, but at the insistence of friends he became a maven for the kustom kick. Of course it didn’t take him long to realize that he was good at what he did and it began to pay off. Literally. An artist is at a loss for creative drive when there is no inspiration, so Kustom pulls his from his competition and other artists. “I see some designs from other artists and I know I can do that but better or with a different twist. I’ll add my own touch to it make it look totally different.” So if you’re looking to get your footwork pimped, here’s a hint: all white AF1’sare the best canvas to work with. With the amount of leather space to work with, AF1’s are a best
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bet. Kustom adds, “Don’t get it twisted, any hot idea looks just as good on any shoe.” So whose rocking Kustom Kid’s kustom kicks? He’s got an all-star clientele with names like Carmelo Anthony, Busta Rhymes, Lil Wayne and more. But he’s not bragging until he gets Jigga (Jay Z) rocking a pair of Kustoms’. In the meantime, if you’re ever down in South Beach, check for a pair of Kustom Kids at Philly in Miami shoe store down at 11th and Collins Ave. So while you salivate and mentally design your shoe, what is Kustom doing? Well since getting a 9 to 5 wasn’t the ideal way to make a living, Kustom realized that he had to get serious about his creativity and how he would make it work for him. “I hate working under other people. I’m not a nine to fiver.” Getting a regular hustle, in addition to his kustom shoe gig was a must. So now he’s making the human body his canvas at a local Milwaukee tattoo parlor.
VISIT ON MYSPACE:
www.myspace.com/tha_real_kustom_kid
What’s a female sneaker fiend? You are. . If you are female and you’ve got some crazy passion about your footwear! You might be a sneaker-whore or only a few faves. You might be the type to obsess about rocking the cleanest shoes ever, having them laced just so, or having what nobody else’s got. If your feet come first, you might be a female sneaker fiend. OMG! Being a sneaker fiend means that it’s all about beings nuts for sneakers, so have fun with it. Female Sneaker Fiend is a forum for those who love custom sneakers and the designers who make them: www.femalesneakerfiend. com/phpBB/index.php. If you are an artist or just an admirer, send in a photo, art piece, question or article,whatever you’re up to and let the Female Sneaker Fiend know who you are. www.femalesneakerfiend. com/photos.php or www.femalesneakerfiend.com/art. php www.femalesneakerfiend.com/articles.php .
When visiting FemaleSneakerFiend.com you will be able to see photos of the artwork created by the ladies in the network of sneaker fiends, interviews done by ladies who describe their vision for their custom footwear and links to websites for all of the custom designers. Additionally, you’ll find links to books, magazines and other related sites dedicated to the female shoe movement. FemaleSneakerFiend.com was created for women of all ages to visit, share and have fun with other ‘she-sneakerheads’ alike. Female Sneaker Fiends are taking it to the streets and throughout the world, making sure no one’s sleeping on the talents of the ladies. Make contact with a sneaker fiend: Autumn 646.319.2584 autumn@femalesneakerfiend.com wethepihpoh@gmail.com www.femalesneakerfiend.com deve8magazine.com
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Dunkxchange by: Melissa Stewart
For all the sneakerheads out there who are frustrated with dealers who promise authentic merchandise, but deliver something other than what you expected, there is a solution for you. Dunkxchange provides an outlet to show where you can buy, sell and trade all types of rare kicks. Founder and CEO, Gary Hughes, tells why he created Dunkxchange. “I thought that if sneakerheads like me could trade in person, they would know they were getting authentic merchandise, and not cheap knockoffs. Our monthly shows feature great shoes, great music, great food, and a fun, friendly atmosphere.” If you’d like to know if and when the next Dunkxchange will be in your area, log onto www.Dunkxchange.com and go to the event calendar.
International Sneaker Battle: Enthusiasts create “wearable pieces of art” by Zach Spicer
It all started as a dream for Mike Daurio, founder of one of the largest sneaker events in the country, The International Sneaker Battle. Mike started off with a love for the art of sneakers and developed the idea into an event that hosts many of hip-hop elite. International Sneaker Battle started out as an idea to put together a show where sneaker collectors, designers, and enthusiasts all come together and hear music by today’s hottest DJ’s and hip-hop artists alike. The event got a major boost in celebrity attendance when Custom Car Icon Funkmaster Flex teamed up with Mike to host the shoe battles during his car show extravaganzas. The two met while Mike was an intern at New York’s Hot 97 FM, where Flex has reigned as king of the airwaves for years. “If I didn’t have Flex on my side, the event wouldn’t have came off as successfully as it did. It was hard in the beginning because people outside the sneaker culture wonder why kids would pay $500 and up for one pair of sneakers.” The event, which visited Edison, NJ, Hartford, CT., and Atlantic City, NJ, in 2006, is set to have a bigger 2007, with events being held in Canada and an additional stop in Los Angeles. “We’ve gotten offers to do shows in Asia and other countries,” explains Mike when asked about the sneaker battle’s worldwide appeal. Contestants enter their unique designs to compete for cash and prizes in nine categories related to overall design and specific types of shoes. Categories include: Best Overall Collection, Best Other Collection, Best Air Force One, and Best Rare Collection among others. Although ISB has gained recognition throughout the industry, the company that runs the event is small and hands-on with every aspect of the event. “I get help from other people in the office. We have 7 people at the most. I keep my hands in everything and I meet all the competitors individually”, says Mike. The future of the custom sneaker industry has many directions and opinions. Mike explained “The future of custom design is large, it only takes one talented kid to really go and either do his own thing or get with a major. There are so many talented people out here designing that it has to happen”. contact (914) 479-1600 or logon to www.internationalsneakerbattle.com for more information.
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Named and inspired by rock icon of the 50’s and 60’s Elvis Presley, Elvis Shoes are a comfortable, classic brand infused with creative elements of Rock, Pop and Hip-Hop music lifestyles. The signature footwear collection launched in February 2007 with the increasingly popular, “Canvas King” a lace-less, low-rise sneaker with 2-velcro straps across a suede upper with royal crown imagery detailing. Retailing for around $77 dollars and available in six color schemes, the Canvas King is available in selective Bakers, Wild Pairs, and footwear boutiques nationwide. Elvis Shoes encompass design style that fuses highlights of Rock & Roll and Urban lifestyles to produce a coveted look
that is edgy, hip and fun-- “rock royalty”. Designed for the likes of rockers, skaters, rappers, collectors, and style conscious consumers, Elvis Shoes is a color-less brand with universal mass appeal. Elvis Shoes will also upgrade their product line and heavily rotate dress casual footwear into the mix with women’s leather strap sandals, and for men, slip on suede dress shoes with an athletic edge. For more information visit:
www.psdiusa.net www.elvisshoes.com
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talk of the town 6. When somebody insults your shoes, you stick up for them like they are your children.
11. You keep every single pair of shoes in the box stuffed.
7. You constantly look at a person’s shoes when you walk by them.
12. People you know (or even strangers) look at you and then look directly down to your feet to see what your shoe you are wearing.
8. Before you go out, you think for a good 10, 15 minutes about which sneakers you should wear.
13. Most of the time your shoes are the center of attention.
9. You do not wear certain sneakers to parties/clubs because you are afraid someone is going to step on them.
14. You feel insulted when someone says “they’re JUST shoes!”
10. You do not wear White/Clear sole shoes in the rain.
16. You browse eBay daily to find that HG (Holy Grail). 17. You are willing to spend good money on your HG in NDS (Near Dead Stock) condition. 18. You know at least 2 people in every shoe store you go to. 19. Your paintings are shoe themed.
15. You want multiple pairs of the same shoe.
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artistic sole YOURKICKS
www.myspace.com/artisticsole
www.yourkicks.net
fresh soles Fresh Soles is a sneaker store located in Lulea, Sweden. The store has been open for one year and also with a web shop www. freshsoles.com that ships worldwide. Owners of the store, Frednik & Lars, both sneakerheads, felt the time to open a sneaker store with the buzz surrounding sneakers and more and more people becoming sneaker addicted. They also carry some of the latest fashion that includes 10deep, Crooks & Castles and Hellz Bellz. We are 2 guys that run the store Fredrik & Lars, both of us are sneaker freaks and felt that the time and place for opening up a sneaker store was right.
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One love to all sole brothers & sisters out there. www.freshsoles.com dv8 magazine
sneaker brands they carry include: 12grain Addict Adidas Estevan Oriol Fifty24SF Keep Diggin NYC Mixwell
Milkcrate Athletics New Balance Nike Puma Reebok Upper Playground write ups on pg 40
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COVER STORY
sneaking
in the park
A sunny day in Atlanta while taking a stroll in the park.
cover photo and cover story photos by: drew crozier
Styling by: Camela Curtis On male model, clothing by Pepsi Clothing www.pepsistyle.com Shoes by Stacks www.idsstacks.com. On female model shirt by Aja Imani. Pants by PZI Jeans www.pzijeans.com Shoes by E The Custom Queen www.igotpinkeye.com
SEKURE D
Metik Designs
www.myspace.com/sekured
by: Melissa Stewart
Carlo Badiola is a full time college student by day and by night a sneaker designer. Not the most self descriptive of names; Metik is not a brand of medical paraphernalia. It’s meticulous. According to Webster’s dictionary, it means to take excessive care and consideration and is particular about details. This gives you a glimpse into how serious a designer you must be when creating a masterpiece. Metik Designs was created to be a vehicle which drives one artist’s ideas to the public’s feet. He has a world of knowledge which is transformed to the whole ‘rubber that meets the road’ theory, but communicates it through his designs.
Sekure D by Melissa Stewart
Did you know that you could get custom sneakers down under? I mean from Australia? Sekure D is now a well known designer in Australia. Despite growing up misunderstood by a culture who could care less about his sneaker obsession, he “…covertly practiced his works for years before being contracted to coordinate the interior design and painting of various basketball and hip-hop shops within Melbourne.”
Is the paint on the shoes durable? The shoes are painted using top quality materials and therefore under normal conditions they will be wearable without having any negative effects on their quality. That being said activities such as going to clubs and playing basketball or other sports do not fall under the category of normal conditions.
Being a collector of rare footwear (who knew footwear could be noticed as ‘rare’), Sekure D began working with web-graphics and custom signatures that taught him to pay attention careful attention to detail and required a great deal of patience. He formed an appreciation for style, uniqueness and quality of finish that is evident in any quality-made shoe that would normally outlive current fashion fads.“This is why each design created is totally unique and thus you will own a one of a kind Sekure D couture item,” boasts Sekure.
How long will it take for shoes to be customized? Typically a pair of shoes can be finished within a 2 week period. However the time taken depends on the detail of the design, whether or not inspirational material for the design is supplied and also the size of the workload currently undertaken by Sekure D.
Sekure D blends graphics, symbols and text all within the mixture of street art to craft a design based on the ideas conveyed by you the consumer or inspiration sought elsewhere.
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Do I supply the shoes to be customized? Normally it is easier for the customer to supply the shoes to be customized however depending upon the availability of the sneaker to be painted it is possible for Sekure D to obtain them locally. How do you contact the Aussie designer? Go down under, or just hit him up on MySpace.com/SekureD.
“I’m just a common folk with a simple passion for the love and art of sneakers… I try to bring a unique look to shoes. Presenting ideas viewed through my eyes, I focus on communicating the idea on a visible media.” “I try to bring a different and unique look to sneakers with quality and wearability as high priority. There are no boundaries to what I can do with the skills and tools in my possession. I work with paintbrushes, airbrushes, and leather burning. I also have the ability to reconstruct shoes and have machined stitch together. “ Contact: Carlo metik@metikdesigns.com www.metikdesigns.com
hott FASHION!
HOT ISH!
Join us as we take a look at what some of
hott FASHION!
Shoes Retail $120
www.fila.com
Metro Attitude Style 670499 Color White/Black/Aqua Retail $120
the brands in the game have released...
www.adidas.com
2K by
ZX 600 (Jamaica) Style 661280 Retail $95 www.soholab.com
ECKO Cleveland Retail $60
Shirts Retail $35
Gingham www.2KTSHIRTS.com
Ali Confidence Track top by Cey Adams Style 380639 Retail $100 Ali Confidence Tee by Cey Adams Style 377984 Retail $40 Ali Classic II - Confidence by Cey Adams Style 677445 Retail $150
GOLA
www.gola.co.uk
Lady1800 979 GOLA Available through Fall Retail $70
Harrier Anniversary Sneaker1800 979 GOLA Limited Edition launching in January Retail $90
ECKO Trophey - Rowdy Retail $65
PF FLYERS
www.pfflyers.com
Shoes Retail $65
Galaxy Sneaker1800 979 GOLA Available through Fall Retail $85
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GRAND
HIGH
www.myspace.com/grandhigh
20. You could have bought a small car for the amount you spent on your shoe collection. 21. You get really defensive about any damage to your shoes. 22. You save up your lunch money over a month to buy a new pair. 23. You look down at your shoes every 5 minutes. 24. Your drawer is full of shoe cleaners. 25. You skip school to go to the mall because the new pair of Jordans are being released. 26. You know what NT and ISS stands for. 27. You sit in class and keep turning your foot to the side to look at your shoes. 28. You know a fake shoe when you see it. 29. You have background on desktop.
an Air Jordon your computer
30. You think that person that wears Air Jordans are hot even without looking at their face. 31. You go to the mall for silica packs and tell the lady that it’s for a school project because they wont give you any otherwise. 32. You check the weather before you go out so you know what shoe you should wear. 33. You put an extra insole in your Jordans so you won’t rub off the Jumpman on the insole. 34. You take a traveling cleaning kit when you are on the road. 35. You limp when you walk to prevent your shoes from creasing. 36. You clean your shoes after every wear. 37. You learned roman numerals from the Air Jordan series. 38. 23 is one of your favorite numbers.
HI POWERED www.myspace.com/ron_nelson
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by: Ashanti White
www.myspace.com/tagur
While her goal may be to appear as a contestant on the critically acclaimed Project Runway, Shonda may be destined for greater things. The twenty something blonde bombshell with hourglass curves looks like she would be ripping the runway for America’s Next Top Model. Instead, Shonda has focused on her gifts of cosmetology and fashion design. The eight year veteran loves fashion and everything about it from design to show, which is apparent from a quick glimpse of the neutral stripped leather hoodie and miniskirt that accentuate her slender legs. Her most recent venture and defining work comes from her sneaker designs that includes diva inspired and bubble induced kicks that are as striking as their originator. One only has to take a look at Shonda’s music collection to see that she is the farthest person from conventional. One minute she can rock out to Beyonce’s “Déjà vu,” flip to Outcast’s heart thumping beats, then wind down with “In My Place” by the British band, Coldplay.“Anytime I’m having any problems in life or in relationships, I listen to Coldplay…I’d like to meet Chris Martin [the band’s lead singer] just so he can sing to me,” she says.
www.myspace.com/streetghear
ROW
www.myspace.com/1jrow
Her creations, like her music, are equally fruitful. Her best seller is the teal, saffron, coral, jade combination that is striking even before she presents the final product. With so many influences, one may wonder who Shonda is most like, “Michael Knight from Season 3 of Project Runway. I feel like the female version of him…We both design hot clothing for women with curves.” Although Shonda easily demonstrates her inventiveness, she does carry an essential element that is lacking in many of today’s apparel. Like the trendsetters of the sixties and seventies, Shonda utilizes accessories to perfect the look of her kicks. Most recently, she specially customized some kicks reminiscent of the Woodstock era to match a Maskeen Jacket. It took two days, but the time was well worth the result. So the question is…Who is Shonda L.? Designer? Innovator? Fashionista? She is all of the above, but one day, she will unquestionably become a legend and icon of her industry.
VISIT ON MYSPACE: www.myspace.com/imreal0711
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Phase 9 Media “Versatile Style” by: Sherry Williams
Sneakerheads to the fullest, Ian Taylor and Fred Burgos, better known as Phase 9 Media, have been designing and making digital artwork for about 10 years. Inspired by the Nike Dunk, this shoe creation sparked a decision one day to invest in artwork. After getting recognition from smaller projects, they ventured into other areas by making device skins for the ever popular cell phones, media players, and handheld games. Bringing us up to date with clothing designs, new products are constantly released. Versatility defines the two, considering Ian being strictly a Dunk collector, and Fred giving no limit to sneaker options, these two can agree on inspiration coming from clean designs. Those of whom work they have looked up to would include, but not limited to, Shepard Fairey, 123Klan, Dave White, and various graffiti artists. They describe their style as very tight/clean lines. “We are unique because we produce limited artwork based on the actual inspiration of the shoe not to mention the shoe itself.” It’s been nothing less of excitement by the positive feedback since they’ve started. “It gets you amped that people feel the same ay about your work that you do.” They claim their items to be hot commodities, rapidly moving, allowing for no chance to enjoy their own work. Proven to be competent in many areas and able to turn with ease from one thing to another, their variety of skill allows them to move freely in all directions. We can expect to see some collaboration from them with a few other companies in the near future. Be on the lookout for new products at: www.Phase9Media.com www.myspace.com/phase9media
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kosher klassics Kosher Klassics is the product of a visionary maverick’s dream of fusing politics, music, and fashion that came to life in 1998. That year marked the birth of Kosher Klassics and the dawn of the revolution of creativity. The company’s entree into the fashion mix is a signature tee adorned with a massive gorilla which symbolizes intelligence, persistence, and defiance. The tee is wildly popular among musicians, alternative athletes, and those who want their inner boldness to manifest on the outside. The evolution in Kosher’s fashion focus has expanded to include not only apparel, but footwear as well - from necessity to statement. This statement is being made for and by a generation of informed, conscious, and fashionable individuals who recognize that being politically correct doesn’t mean going against the fashion grain. One of Kosher’s most innovative ventures in fusing fashion and politics is the Gunsmith, a branded anti-war shoe.
This shoe was created for those outside the mainstream, just like those who have been forced by circumstance and situation to serve in a war that does not benefit them - after all Bush doesn’t have any children enlisted in the armed forces. This ironic creation sports multicolored automatic weapons which fit into the following categories: guns used in traditional war; guns used in street war; and futuristic guns for wars yet to come. A slogan can be found in every “Gunsmiths” insole. This slogan is an announcement to the powers that be and to the powerless. THE ANNOUNCEMENT READS: WE CAN NOT CONTINUE TO ALLOW HIGH RANKING OFFICIALS OR APPOINTED POLITICIANS TO ENGAGE THEIR CONSTITUENTS IN ILLEGITIMATE WARS. AND THOUGH WE STAND WITH OUR TROOPS, WE FIRMLY AND WITHOUT A DOUBT STAND AGAINST THIS WAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND ON HIP HOP. KEEP IT KOSHER. This concept typifies the edgy progression that is now known as a Kosher Klassics. www.myspace.com/kosherklassics
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SMOOTH TIP PRODUCTIONS “From Classic to Custom” by: Sherry Williams
From Classic to Custom, creativity for this artist began in his early college days. Since third grade, having a passion for drawing and art made the decision that much easier and this new craze began to spread like a virus. “Music, people, and anything that makes me want to stop and analyze it in an artistic way is inspiration.” With a major in visual communications, the ability to catch the essence of a design or layout came natural. Smooth Tip is an airbrush artist, on the scene for three years now, initially starting with tee shirts then crossing over to something more. He describes his technique as knowing how to utilize the airbrush in ways people aren’t used to seeing. What makes these designs unique is not only having an eye for detail, but being able to express what he is feeling or what the customer wants, through art. Aside from his own personal works, fellow admirations include, Ghettro, Mache, C2, Fossco, Rep Da Vinci, Mizzee, and Jorl all of whom custom design as well. Being able to create his own niche and style, along with dedicating time to the quality, is what attracts people to his work.
He has his hands full with both working full time as a graphic designer, and dedicating his free time to custom shoes and urban art. You can look forward to his new canvases due out soon and just expect more creativity. His work can be seen all over Decatur, GA. Check out his online portfolio on www.myspace.com/smoothtip or smoothtip.com. “My work is exclusive for the simple fact that I do everything on my own and I’m not focusing on mass production.” The trend that Smooth Tip started has surged into popularity and can also be seen at his airbrush shop on 285 Market, off of Glenwood Road. For generations, young people have wanted the shoes that everyone else had, with the culture changing; Smooth Tip Productions gives you a reason set the trend. www.myspace.com/smoothtip
39. When you are bored in class and someone says something about shoes, you listen.
45. You get mad when people say Jordans are a waste of money.
40. You never try to get any of your shoes dirty.
46. When you buy a new pair of shoes you take pictures of them.
41. You take your shoes off and walk to your car when it suddenly starts raining.
47. You write poems about your shoes.
42. You have a whole collection of Jordan retro cards. 43. You carry an Eastbay or Sole Collector magazine in your backpack. 44. You know all the release date for Jordans.
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48. You visit ISS and NT Forums. 49. You know what DS, OG, SMH, & MJ stands for. 50. You know when Michael Jordan’s birthday is.
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4 hot ones
-a sneak peak at four hot pairs all in different styles
1. Holyzapatos 2. Fetti 3. Hy Society 4. Astoria 4
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write ups Hy Society by: Melissa Stewart
We all know the west is different from the rest, but that doesn’t mean they don’t do it big in their own way. Custom made sneakers have a way of generating mass appeal from coast-to-coast. Check the footwork of James ‘Hy Society’ Casiano for a rare find. The elite need not only apply, but first come first serve. Everyone wants something that no one else has and it’s even more of plus to get one of the few of anything. You could be one of a thousand to own a pair of Hy Society footwear. There are only one-thousand pairs of each design made. Each pair will be numbered from one to a thousand to let you know which shoe you’ve purchased and delivered in a custom made shoe box. How do you get you hands on a pair of the coveted few? You won’t find them at your local shoe store or any in the mall. The shoes will only be sold in the area where they are most popular. But until then, you can always hit ‘em up on Myspace.com/76KHADAFFY to see what new and in season. ---------------------------------------------------Astoria VIII Astoria VIII was formed in early 2005 by two brothers with the ambition of creating aesthetically unique works of art on the medium of sneakers. All work is hand painted with precise attention to detail by DLV and designed in conjunction with J.H.A. All forms of inspiration are used when designing the paintwork used for our sneakers; from everyday objects to other designers of note everything is taken into consideration and nothing is unachievable for us to create. In the short period Astoria VIII has been established, their work has been featured by various publications and media outlets and displayed on the world renowned Sneaker Pimps exhibit and most recently, the “Sneakers: Classics to Customs” exhibit at the NGV (National Gallery of Victoria). Astoria VIII sneakers have also been worn by professional athletes for whom we have designed one off pieces. Astoria VIII is primarily based in Sydney, Australia and they have an additional studio in Melbourne. ----------------------------------------------------
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Sole Junkie by: Melissa Stewart When you think of a junkie, you liken them to drug addicts or those who have an unhealthy craving for some ‘thing’. You wouldn’t imagine a shoe junkie, but check the footwork on Sole Junkie and you’ll be hooked too. Steven ‘Sole Junkie’ Cedre hails from San Diego, California but brought his roots with him from the Bronx and credits hip hop for as the ‘sole’ inspiration for creativity. As a kid, money was tight and copping the flyest sneakers was the last thing on his parents shopping list. So fast forward to present day and you have a man with an art degree from Long Beach State, married with kids. But in a fateful turn of events, playing with his son resulted in him sustaining a neck injury that rendered him unable to work and a neck that wouldn’t allow him to lift his head. For over a month all he could do was look towards his feet and decided his shoes needed to be fly if he was gonna look at them all day and a budding artist was born. Now he creates masterpieces of other artist that have impacted him in some form. Sole Junkie footwork bears the images of Latin rapper Big Pun, Tito Fuente, Hector Lavoe and baseball great Roberto Clemente. Fortunately, Sole Junkie is a hard core sneakerhead. He’s been customizing for over two years and is enjoying the momentum that his shoes are gaining, but money doesn’t always come fast or easy. So when asked if money was the motivation for his hard work, he tells DV8 why he does it. “The love of it... I’ve been breaking even a lot. It’s hard to be creative when you’re broke.” With shoes being one of the main outfitters of hip hop heads, it’s become a competitive arena even with big boys like Nike, Reebok and Adidas. Major brands will release a shoe and only make a few and call them elite. Uncommon colors, unique designs and limited sizes are some things that make elite shoes in such high demand. When you have a Sole Junkie who designs to specific tastes and ideas, that’s a one-of-a-kind shoe. “Some people like to be sneaker snobs and get only factory made shoes like Nike. If Nike doesn’t make it then they won’t wear it,” he says. Fortunately, there aren’t as many sneaker snobs as there are those who like to be the one-and-only. Sole Junkie has outfitted celebs like Talib Kweli, Bazaar, Tony Touch and lots of Reggaeton artist who like to keep with their Latino roots.
The Sole Junkie appreciates the broad clientele that wears his shoe and generally attracts those who appreciate the artwork more than the shoe. People who really like extraordinary are Sole Junkie customers. What’s so special about a Sole Junkie shoe? “Quality. I put a lot of work into my shoes. I’ve been putting real gold and diamonds into some of my shoes to add to the unique quality and value of my artwork.” says the Sole Junkie. Get hooked on the sole: solejunkiecustoms@yahoo.com www.myspace.com/solejunkie ---------------------------------------------------Heavy Kickers Customs Heavy Kickers Customs is a very reliable and highly respected name when it comes to custom designing, These Custom painted Kicks are for those that want their kicks to be more than just the typical and average shoe. It is for anyone that wants to be unique and an attention grabber. We provide great exclusive shoes for a great price, and yes indeed an outstanding quality that will get everyone saying...”where did you get those from?” We have nothing but hard working artists and designers that strive to provide unique and excellent quality. We will also have current updates of new designs and styles. Our products were purposely designed to turn heads and grab everyone’s attention. ---------------------------------------------------Platinum Act Not like others, this artist from Anaheim, California wants you to know that his work is original and artistically touched by Lloyd Cotton. They’ve been creating custom footwork for over two years and there’s not much that they can’t do. Platinum Act is artistry at its best. How do they do it? Glad you asked. They start off with your shoe and the design or whatever you want on it…and the magic begins. Giving us the inside scoop, “We have our homemade juice that makes the shoe paintable…” Depending upon your style, this is a process that can take anywhere between 2 – 7 days. We remove the “factory gloss so that our paint will stay on the shoe. We choose the colors for the shoe and shake them up so there are no inconsistencies in the color. We paint using a permanent leather paint. We add our own gloss and oils Finally, we heat press the shoes so that the paint is permanent. Time for the shoe to go to its new owner
Preserving the life of your shoe is important if you want to extend the look of the shoe. The artwork is not easily chipped, faded or cracked. When wearing your shoe for the style and the look, you’ll see the shoe will remain as fresh as the owner. However, when using your shoe for more recreational purposes, it’s likely the shoe will sustain more abuse. In this case, you will experience normal wear and tear as you would with any recreational shoe. Prices vary with the type of shoe your style commands. It is our style guarantee that you’ll be happy with the finished product so naturally, you’ll get your money’s worth. ---------------------------------------------------Uncutt Ink By: Zach Spicer Un’s first love was to be an actor, but who knew that that would turn into a business opportunity. As CEO of Uncutt Ink, Un is a casting director, model consultant and designer all in one. Uncutt Ink features hand-painted designs featured in shoes, clothing and accessories. “I’m a creator and I create art that people have never seen or can do,” Un said. “It comes from the heart, a vision and nowhere but the off the top of my head.” What sets Un apart from traditional sneaker artists is the hand-painting feature. Un said traditional sneaker art can be done by anyone that is good with colors, but it’s his color schemes that come together with art that differentiates his finished product. “You only need color schemes to come together on a right position on the sneaker and a dominant color,” Un said. “It depends on how I feel for that day. I go with the flow and don’t hold back.” Un claimed that his sneakers are the only customized sneaker of its kind on the market. He discovered that as he was doing promotion for his sneakers. He noticed the adding of colors and even glitter designs, but he contends that the design idea came from him. “I influenced people to do that and people are catching on,” Un said. He then moved on to begin his own business Uncutt Models Inc. Although Un’s grateful for the time he put into the film, music and modeling industry, expanding the business was an even bigger step. That’s where Uncutt Ink comes into play. With Uncutt, he still has the opportunity to work with the industries as he’s creating a product of his own for them and other interested clients.Un has joined forces with Mr. Supreme, founder, CEO and art director of Tough City USA, to develop a clothing line. It’s been a collective effort that have made his company successful. Uncutt serves as general manager, website developer, and operator, Jessica, keeps product and company information up-to-date. The Shi-Nuh Dollz agency also had a part in Uncutt. With his Tough City collaboration, Mr. Supreme and Tough City’s general manager, Charlie Brown, are getting Un’s products in stores.Un has a simple and positive outlook for the future, “I want to make a mark in the sneaker market and make it top-known.” ---------------------------------------------------Hi Powered Customs by: Ashanti White The caramel skinned entrepreneur with the relaxed style is definitely not at a loss for confidence but then again, when someone chills in front of a canary yellow Ferrari like it is a classic hued Honda Accord must posses an assured quality that many do not easily exhibit. But then again Ron Nelson and Archie Alexander have been in the public eye long enough to know that he is truly making his mark. Following in the footsteps of Hip Hop moguls like Russell Simmons, Ron and Archie are contributing their talents to an array of industries. The empire began over a decade ago after working with the music industries biggest name, including TLC, Ciara, and Tyra B. Nelson, veteran of artist development, the Columbus, Georgia native started his career in the entertainment industry as a dancer and choreographer, but has since formed his own company, Hi Powered Movement, which specializes in the many aspects of the entertainment business. Following the success of that venture, Nelson expanded, creating Hi Powered Custom Kicks and Apparel with partner Archie Alexander. The brightly colored sneakers featuring glitter and island nostalgic combinations breathe new life into the Nike Air Force Ones that are Hi Powered’s most popular canvas. Staring at the line up of unique designs, no color goes unrepresented. The hottest pair, however, is the Tigger-inspired conception that attracts adults and children alike. Notwithstanding Nelson’s success, he is still a regular brother, maintaining a level head in the business that thrives on flaunting. The proud father still attends his son’s pee-wee football games and his light sense of humor is unpredictably refreshing. The Ferrari that I assumed was his actually
belongs to a friend. “The car is not mine,” Ron offers with a hardy laugh. Like his graffiti logo of HP topped with a golden crown, Ron is a king and just as energetic as the kicks that he customizes. www.myspace.com/ron_nelson www.myspace.com/archiballer ---------------------------------------------------Grand High Grand High is a DC area based company that produces high quality custom sneakers, t-shirts, skateboard decks, as well as album cover art and inserts. All of our designs are original concepts, each “1 of 1” exclusives. Over the last year Grand High has been a part of the K-Swiss K-Spray 2 International Stencil Art Tour and has done live sneaker customizations at Sneaker Pimps events in Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York. From our recent collaborations with K-Swiss comes our latest project - the Grand High Ladner. The limited edition shoe will be available in select locations world wide in September ‘07. Grand High will never stop recreating the street for your feet. www.myspace.com/grandhigh ---------------------------------------------------Mache Customs by: Melissa Stewart What is Mache? Well, that’s short for Dan Gamache (pronounced “mosh”), sneakerhead and designer out of Fairfield, Connecticut. A basketball junkie with a Graphic Design degree, this blooming Picasso has been a fiend for footwear since the mid 90’s back when he was old enough to pay for his own kicks. When you have two things you love and have mad passion for, its’ bound to show in your daily life. Mache decided to make it bankable since he was sick of rocking the same stuff everybody else was wearing. “I used what I had and painted on some Air Max 90’s, wore them to the barber shop and guys were like, “When did those come out?” As time went on, I started to do more patterns and such…I began to take orders when my skills were good enough to start charging.” The money is good. Actually the money in customized clothing is amazing. To be a talented artist and designer and to name your own price allows the sky to be your financial limit. But does one do it for the money or the love of the shoe? Mache says it’s the love. “I love kicks and I love art. I’m living the American dream. I can do what I love and make some money off it too.” As time when on, Mache started doing more artistically challenging artwork. The more he did the more intricate and detailed the designs became. Realism and portraits are now the calling card for Don Gamache, who actually wears his artwork instead of putting up on a shelf to be admired and not touched. Consider him a walking canvas. “I don’t collect my shoes. I wear them. What’s the sense of dropping all that money on a pair just to sit in a box in a closet? Shoes are meant to be worn!” Inspiration is a very strong feeling that makes people move and be moved. Mache relates his motivation as, “…how far the envelope has been pushed in the customs game. It used to be just putting different colors onto shoes. Now you got cats doing masterpieces on shoes. There’s even guys who literally take the shoe apart and sew it back together with different materials and soles. That’s making it a totally different shoe! It’s just getting better and better... It’s a good time to be a customizer.” Another source of inspiration for Mache is hip hop. Whether it’s a pair of Gza “Liquid Swords” dunks or different patterns of Air Force 1’s, it’s all relative to hip hop. “The lifestyle of hip hop is just to be the freshest cat out there and to do whatever to make you stand out. My shoes will definitely help. I do that by trying to make it stand out without making it blatant. I may do a whole scene on a side of a shoe, but I won’t take away from the integrity of the shoe. You’ll still know what kind of shoe you have.” “I try to just do what I do best and that’s squeeze every ounce of my Godgiven talent onto every pair that I do. I have a name and a reputation now. I can’t go and do sub-par (shoes). I’m a very proud person. If you want some dope artwork, come to me. For Mache Customs, hit him up on at www.myspace.com/machecustomkicks or email him at mache275@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------TAGUR by: Sherry Williams Since early childhood, the frustrations of what some shoe corporations had been offering, many times reinventing the same styles, is what enticed
him to have a pair customized. After noticing the attention that this new trend was attracting, he decided to manufacture a blank canvas shoe, also known as the AKA Blanks. These shoes don’t incorporate any logos, and are made of special synthetic leather formulated to hold ink and/or dyes. The shoe itself looks and feel similar to the classic shoe, but what creates it uniqueness is combining specific elements from specific shoes, that has of yet been done in an existing design. Tagur is a company built on and by artists. As their website states, “We set the stage, you roc the mic.” In giving an emerging or upcoming designer, who has been following the movement and understands what Tagur offers, by inviting them to customize a pair of the AKA Blanks. The simplicity of photographing and then emailing a copy of your work to info@tagur.com allows an opportunity to tour at one of the showcase events. Based on the feedback received, it can afford a chance of having the design mass produced and sold open market. Since starting just 17 months ago, the response has been phenomenal. Tagur wants to be clear in stating that they do not customize shoes for people, rather provide people who do a perfect canvas to customize on. “I admire anyone who makes their own way and does something new and different.” We can expect to see new models dropping this summer for both male and female, from the likes of Spain, Canada, Atlanta, and Jacksonville. Check out www.tagur.com to see what the buzz is all about. ---------------------------------------------------Futurekicks by: Ashanti White Imagine a world where hues of bright green, purple, and orange are the neutrals that stabilize the complementary yellows and reds. This world would be a place where the then ancient Mario Brothers video game scenery or the famous family of Bedrock decorates the sneakers that brothers rock to the club, work, and home. The delicate click-clack of the blood red diamond studded heels grab the attention of the club heads before the intricacies of the design awe them into staring at or stealing glimpses every few seconds. This is the world of Futurekicks, the shoe design company that is breaking all the rules to create fashionable, fun footwear. Ranked one of the best custom kick companies, Mr. Menace, Russell, and Grass can turn any inspiration into an art form. Their in house designs, which feature upwards of fifty styles, include portraits, sports teams, animated characters, candy, and game brands. A 50 Cent fan can rock his face with the likes of Lloyd Banks or the inner child can be displayed with Minnie Mouse or Iceman fashions. The talents of the designers are not confined to sneakers. Futurekicks also incorporate shirts and accessories to enhance the custom experience. Despite their unique flair, customers can request a Futurekick manifestation of any idea they fathom. The most impressive element of the company, however, is that each shoe, belt, and shirt is especially hand crafted void of mass market screen printing and airbrushing. That meticulous drive assures that each design is truly inimitable. Like the teenage Hip Hop, custom design is gradually expanding, capturing the attention of suburbanites and urbanites, the young and mature. But in a pool of artists, Futurekicks is setting itself apart. It is like the Prince of the custom sneaker world—innovative, captivating, and flawless. www.futurekicks.com www.myspace.com/streetghear ---------------------------------------------------Rebellion Customs by: Ashanti White In the most general sense, a rebellion is a refusal to accept authority. It may therefore be seen as encompassing a range of “Behaviour” behaviors from civil disobedience to a violent organized attempt to destroy established authority. Using that definition, Rebellion Customs undoubtedly chose the perfect name for their company. From their white and yellow demure styles to the uncompromising green that encompass the entire canvas, Rebellion is truly redefining the face of footwear. Dr. Bibble, Nameless Villain, and Skrybe, began designing sneakers years ago but the recent attention from Adidas and celebrities coupled with the overwhelming success of an online charity auction, the trio could no longer keep their talents a secret. They can turn a pair of ordinary white sneakers into a multilayered, multidimensional pair of custom kicks that are as unique as the individual they fashion the shoe for. Since their incorporation, Rebellion Customs has established a clientele that mirrors the slew of Grammy Award winners. Hip hop greats, Nas, Ludicris, Justin Timberlake, T.I., and Gnarls Barkley, are devoted customers. Even rock rebels, Anthony Keidis and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, have one of a kind kicks created by Rebellion.
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write ups So how is the dynamic trio handling their success? In a word, beautifully. The talented yet humble brothers recently, donated sneakers for a wildly successful Ebay auction which benefited the Dilla Foundation, formed in honor of the late hip hop producer, J Dilla. Armed with talent, humility and overdue expansion into active wear, Rebellion customs will have a long run in this growing industry. After all, who can boast a resume like theirs in such a short time? Rebellion Customs is an innovative company of artists who work to bring a fresh, personalized approach to footwear and apparel. The entertainment community has long provided clothes; Rebellion filled the void of custom kicks to complement the outfits. And for that we are grateful. www.rebellioncustoms.com www.myspace.com/rebellioncustoms ---------------------------------------------------Artistic Sole A Revolution in Design By: Ashanti White It appears like a scene from a photo shoot. The beige walls and equally sterile oak wood tables provide an artful contrast for the young African American woman with brazen locs sitting comfortably amongst the approaching middle aged customers who chat about nothing while sipping on their double lattes. She glances from her laptop to see my unrecognizable yet familiar face. With no sign of shyness, she extends her tattoo covered arm to shake my hand. The silver hoop in her lip coupled with blue stud just above it draw attention to her welcoming face. Her stylish yet effortless ensemble complements her qualities without overshadowing her persona. This woman, Imani K. Brown, will revolutionize the face of the sneaker design industry. A twenty-six year old Washington, D.C. native with an extensive background in artistic expression, Imani acquired a B.A. degree in Art with a Photography concentration from the esteemed Clark Atlanta University following her graduation from Duke Ellington School of the Arts in 1998. A self-proclaimed sneaker fanatic, Imani learned the downs of the college life when she realized that she was unable to purchase the sneakers that she had come to love. But instead of allowing the lack of funds to disintegrate her love, she incorporated sneakers into her artwork, even completing a photo essay on sneakers for a class assignment. The designs that she created on the campus of Clark Atlanta would become the blueprints for the sneakers that she fashions for her company, Artistic Sole. Artistic Sole is the mastermind of Imani’s fiancé and co-owner, Stephen Clemons. As lead buyer responsible for the design collaboration and
partnership correspondence, the burgeoning entrepreneur also manages the handling of product in boutiques. Like his partner, Stephen has a passion for the preliminary process of designing the customs as well as buying, trading, and collecting retro kicks. From paisley painted Adidas to the mural inspired Nikes to the Pinup Saddle shoes, Artistic Sole demonstrates an artistic individuality that is rarely seen in today’s fashion industry. Every week it seems that a new designer is hitting the scene since artists, like Jennifer Lopez and Sean Combs, released their own lines a few years ago. The greatest problem with this trend is a saturation of the design market that does not actually involve design. Artists and entertainers are shown shoes and asked to put their names on it. “It’s more like an endorsement,” Imani adds with an ironic grin. She is an authentic artist that understands the significance of loving one’s conception: “I tell people that I have to like the design if I’m going to put it out there.” She then shares with me the signature L-Boogie sneaker that displays the range of her talent. Concealing my surprise when she informed me that her company is only “six or seven months” is no easy task, especially after seeing the work that is making Artistic Sole one of the fastest growing sneaker design companies in the Unites States. Imani’s shoes can be extravagantly defined or simplistically muted, but they are always beautifully distinct, like her tattoos. In addition to her photography and design careers, Imani has successfully made a name for herself in the D.C. and Atlanta areas with her expressive tattoo creations.“You should let me do yours,” she offers in her genuine tone, certain in the artwork that has been her life. Undeniably gifted, enthusiastic, and authentic I wonder if Imani is completely devoted to her craft. “Would you sell full rights for a design for $20,000?” Without hesitation, Imani answers “no.” “For two million?” “No. My designs are personal to me. I wouldn’t sell it to anybody.” Her sincerity is unmistakable as is her honesty. So where does Imani see the future of sneaker design? In a simple word—revolutionizing. With the popularity of the club scene and the desire for comfort, sneakers are becoming the new club gear: “The dress codes in D.C. say no athletic wear, but that’s not comfortable. When I go out, I like to dance until I pass out. I don’t want to be worried about my feet hurting.” “Would you consider designing heels?” “Heels are more conservative, but that would be a nice project…I might.” As her recently acquired fan I would love to see that and am sure that I do stand not alone. With the return of Eighties styles, innovative high heel sneakers would be just the accessory to complete the trend. Perhaps Imani will be the one to modernize that industry as well. With a hardy remembrance of our past fashion Do’s and Don’ts, Imani and
I conclude our meeting with an exchange of cards and contact information. She pulls her sketch pad, and I catch a glimpse of drawings that will most likely grace the pages of her website, www.artistic-sole.com. I divert my attention to the russet canvas that is her skin. “Carpe” graces her left forearm and “diem” decorates the other. It means “seize the day,” but Imani has done more than that. She revolutionized it and made it her own Artistically Exclusive. Artistically Custom. Kicks. Visit Imani at www.artistic-sole.com www.creativepurposedesign.com ---------------------------------------------------Holyzapatos HolyZapatos! is a small group of artists from around the Midwest based in Chicago, including Mike Genovese (GenoveseStudios.com), JeremyBarbour, Chris Silva (Chrissilva.com), Risk, Trixter, Temper, Grok, Jack, Denz, Tucker Gerrick (typoscura.blogspot.com), and many more. The idea behind the collective is to get money to the artists that are creating culturally relevant work all over the streets of Chicago and everywhere else they may end up. HolyZapatos uses custom shoes, canvas work, commissioned murals, clothes, and many other mediums to create unique, amazing, and relevant pieces of art for their customers. The artists involved with HolyZap range in social and artistic backgrounds from graffiti writing delinquents to Bachelors of Fine Arts from the Art Institute Chicago. At night, HZ works with nightclubs like Reserve and Boutique to bring in live paintings and customs into the public eye. They take orders at their club nights while promoting their own shows like the Artists Series Release Party and their upcoming NYC – Chicago train bombers show, “The Lay-Up.” HolyZapatos has also displayed their wares at Balance TC’s first anniversary show with DJ Premier as well as Sneaker Pimps 2005 and 2006. HolyZapatos also painted live at Sneaker Pimps 2006 with Lupe Fiasco who has also donated customs for our Artists Series Release Party. HolyZapatos gets lots of help from the skateboard and sneaker-head/ ”streetwear” communities in Chicago. St. Alfred and Uprise Skateshop have helped HolyZapatos out with every event and HZ project to date. The goal of HolyZapatos is to make high quality, unique goods that embody our socially and globally conscious vision for the world we live in… And have a good time doing it. HolyZapatos! (Holy Shoes! In Spanglish) www.holyzapatos.com, holyzapatos.blogspot.com
pastry by: Melissa Stewart
We’ve all seen them on MTV’s hit reality TV show Run’s House and fell in love with the whole family. But Angela and Vanessa Simmons have stepped out and are taking the Simmons name to a new level with the debut of their new ladies sneaker line called Pastry Footwear. Angela, a college student, magazine editor and self proclaimed baker along with older sister Vanessa, a budding model and actress, have teamed up to create a sneaker line for women that reaches the feminine side yet keeps you fashionably in tune. DV8 caught up with the ladies on their promotional tour in Atlanta’s own TinPin Alley and had the chance to see first hand the work the ladies have been laboring over. From the shoe box down to the laces, the Simmons girls have influenced every aspect in the making of the Cake Collection, an array of colorful, mid-priced athletic-inspired shoes. Taken from their favorite baked goods, shoe names range from Chocolate Mousse (brown with pink highlights), Strawberry Shortcake (pink with white highlights), Red Velvet (red with white highlights) and Sprinkles (white with small multicolored dots). Each shoe will have a tube of lip gloss attached to it, with its scent/color coordinated to the shoe’s theme. The footwear will be packaged in boxes bound with satin ribbon, ala a pastry purchase. The stylishly talented duo are keeping it all in the Simmons family, as they debut the appetizing Pastry Footwear Cake Collection and join their dad Joe “Run” Simmons, their Uncle Russell Simmons and Aunt Kimora Lee Simmons of Baby Phat in stylishly outfitting consumers’ feet.
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