Luxury sneaker brand KOIO went unconventional for its latest design by tapping Los Angeles-based ceramist Ben Medansky for a pair of limited-edition artistic shoes that are informed by pottery style and handcrafted works of art. The unisex footwear boasts a white upper, sprinkled with gray specs and a vibrant cobalt blue soles—Medansky's favorite color.
The project was a first for the artist, and Ben Medansky made the design of the artistic shoes his own with clever references to clay material, as well as detailing that is reminiscent of his industrialist approach to art. Design Milk states that they are "not just sneakers," but rather "shoellery" or "shoeramics." Whatever one chooses to call them, the limited KOIO x Ben Medansky artistic shoes are sure to sell out fast as they are so unique in their design.
Photo Credits: KOIO
Ceramic-Referencing Sneaker Designs
KOIO Debuted Artistic Shoes Inspired by Pottery
Trend Themes
1. Ceramic-inspired Sneaker Designs - Opportunity for luxury sneaker brands to collaborate with artists and craftsmen to create limited-edition shoes inspired by unconventional materials.
2. Unisex Artistic Footwear - Growing demand for gender-neutral footwear that incorporates artistic elements and unique design features.
3. Blurring the Line Between Art and Fashion - Potential for collaborations between artists and fashion brands to create wearable art pieces that appeal to consumers seeking unconventional fashion statements.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Sneaker Brands - Opportunity for luxury sneaker brands to differentiate themselves by collaborating with artists and craftsmen to create unique and artistic footwear.
2. Art and Design - Artists and designers can explore opportunities for collaboration with fashion brands to create limited-edition art-inspired products.
3. Fashion Retail - Retailers can tap into the growing demand for artistic and unconventional footwear by curating collections that blur the line between art and fashion.