The Making Of Harsh Winter Collection

7 hand painted, 1/1, Air Force 1's. Created using a combination of hand dying, airbrushing, and painting. Inspired by harsh, New England winters and tough times.

Each pair of shoes is NFC chipped, directing collectors here, where you can view behind the scenes videos, journal entries, and more that were recorded during the making of this collection.

Created as part of the Avaissance Season 2 Program.

View Collection

Process

Harsh Winter Collection Soundtrack

A playlist composed of songs, and Tiny Desk performances, that were listened to during the making of this collection.

Listen Here

Parting Thoughts

  • How Harsh Of A Winter?

    This project coincided with a transformative time in my life. A difficult time. It's funny how the universe decides to work.

    I moved back home to Massachusetts, from Austin TX, mainly to help my family with a struggling restaurant. It's been in my life since I was 7. My dad started it in 2005, and it has been there since. To think of it going under, hurts my heart for my parents.

    The pressure of fighting for this place to stay alive, along with what felt like the mourning of my past life in Austin, led to me being the most depressed I've ever been. I didn't make art for months. To be honest this project loomed over me for a bit, I debated not finishing it. I could barely go a day without crying, let alone create a full thought out project.

    I am thankful for the people around me who supported me and pushed me to create again. And I am grateful that I had an important project to lean on. Something to push me. 

    The result essentially was me being more free in my art than I ever have. My goal was to complete the project, and complete it well. The creative part I let come on its own. I simply did not have the energy to sketch, design, and meticulously paint my own image to a tee. 

    Instead I threw the shoes in dye, and just went at them with no plan, but a lot of feelings to get out. 

    I ended up utilizing hand dyeing, airbrushing, and hand painting. I created on days that I could, in between responsibilities and the chaos of life. And I thought about all that was on my mind. This project ended up being my escape.

    It felt so good to put these shoes out. Even if it was at the last second. Because I didn't succumb to depression. I didn't give up. And I ended up transforming my emotions into something that I am very proud of. 

    This was my first time integrating new tech into my clothing, and I know it won't be my last, which feels very exciting. 

    I hope you enjoy your shoes to the fullest. Wear them to the bone. Feel every emotion. Enjoy the world, the good and the bad.

    -CHURRO