Creating art is an exploration, a conversation, a study. It's about provoking thought, challenging perceptions, and revealing the hidden narratives in the everyday. My latest exhibition, 'POLYTHEISM', was a testimony to this very ethos. As an artist, I'm humbled and exhilarated by the reception this collection received.
Sneakers / trainers – to many, they are more than footwear. They're symbols of culture, of identity, of personal expression. And, for some, a near-religious devotion. The concept of 'POLYTHEISM', held in the heart of Covent Garden, was my exploration of this phenomenon – a deep dive into sneaker culture and the cult-like following it commands.
‘Polytheism’ signifies the worship of more than one God, a concept reflected in the fanatic loyalty and sacrifice collectors display in pursuit of the industry's most coveted sneakers. It's this divine parallel that fascinated me, and I sought to encapsulate this aspect within my artwork.
My 'POLYTHEISM' exhibition showcased a carefully curated collection of seventeen sneaker representations. Ten of these were prints paying tribute to some of the most renowned and loved sneakers in the Hall of Fame. The other seven were original, hand-collaged works depicting the legendary 'Grails', those sneakers so highly coveted they're practically sacred.
Each piece was more than a mere visual representation – it was a narrative. Every swatch of colour, every pixelated style collage, breathed life into these icons. And the textual elements, laced with biblical undertones, highlighted the quasi-religious fervour that these sneakers ignite in their collectors.
I'm incredibly grateful for the turnout on opening night – a testament to the power and allure of this unique subculture. The success of 'POLYTHEISM' and the sold-out event affirmed my belief that this exploration struck a chord with many.
Through the lens of 'POLYTHEISM', I wanted to present an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of sneaker culture, shining a light on the transcendent power of these objects of devotion. I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to everyone who came through and purchased my works.
This exhibition was not just a celebration of sneakers, but a homage to the devotion, the community, and the emotional ties they inspire. It was an honour to present this body of work at the Rhodes Contemporary pop-up gallery, and I look forward to continuing this exploration and dialogue with future collections.
Watch the exhibition preview video here…