Today we’d like to introduce you to Shane Guzman.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
As a lifelong artist and sneaker enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to the shoe customization game and became inspired by the unique creations I saw other artists putting out. While having dabbled in many forms of art throughout the years, I had never created a custom shoe but wanted to give it a shot.
So, in 2015, after a hefty dose of research and studying I decided to dust off the old paint brushes, get the necessary supplies and take a crack at it, customizing an old pair of beaters I had lying around.
Three years later, my craft has evolved tremendously, and my aim is to provide my clients with stunning one-of-a-kind sneakers. Whether it’s giving new life to an old favorite pair of sneakers or customizing deadstock kicks, I strive to create the best shoe in my clients’ collection!
Please tell us about your art.
I customize sneakers. Typically a client will reach out to me with a general idea of what they would like to have done on their shoe. From there, I work with the client to take the idea and translate that to the sneaker. This includes deciding what shoe is best, figuring out what all will be needed, and providing mock-ups.
Once we’ve nailed down the final concept, the client sends over the shoes to be customized and I get to work! In about four-six weeks (depending on current availability), the client receives their custom sneakers.
What types of designs do you create on the sneakers?
The subject matter on my sneaker customs are across the board, and really just depend on what the client is looking for. Whether it’s incorporating a favorite sports team, to adding superheroes, to basic colorway changes, I work with my clients to create a unique shoe that showcases their style!
How are the shoes customized?
I customize the shoes using paints specifically designed for shoes/leather. I utilize both hand painting and airbrushing when creating my customs, and complete each shoe with a finisher that keeps the paint intact and gives the shoe that factory look!
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
I personally think the biggest challenge facing artist today (specifically in the sneaker customization game) is what I like to call the “Hypebeast Culture.”
With sneaker customizations gaining so much visibility over the last five years due to social media outlets such as Instagram and Facebook, the art form has become extremely popular lately. However, while at the height of its popularity, many artists are feeling the pressure to create mainstream/overdone customs to compete with the demand of many clients who don’t necessarily want something unique, but rather just something popular. Many customizers nowadays are purely in it for the money, and it’s evident in their artwork. When all you start to see after a while are the same customs reproduced over and over (i.e. Off-white” customs), you really get an idea of how crowded the field is with uninspired artists.
I think the artists who are in it for the art itself, and not just the profit, will eventually shine as their artwork will start to stand out in the crowd.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
To see all of my latest work, you can check out my Instagram page @trucustomsneakers. You can also visit my website at https://trucustomsneakers.wixsite.com/trucustomsneakers for inquiries.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://trucustomsneakers.wixsite.com/trucustomsneakers
- Email: trucustomsneakers@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trucustomsneakers/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/trucustomsneakers/
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