A few years ago I became more interested in knowing what custom sneakers customizers would be posting up online than the latest release dates for the newest Nike Basketball shoes or “wallet breakers” posts on NikeTalk from the mysterious EKINs. I think it was just more possibility of spontaneity and creativity and now almost everything is getting retroed so it is no surprise to see certain shoes six months before they are back on the shelves. One thing that is rare in the custom sneakers world is the use of modern shoes. By modern I mean released after 1995. It is not often that you see an Nike Air Max 95 or earlier custom, Nike Air Jordan XI and up custom or random Nike Posite basketball shoe. So this is a unique scene being presented by Nike. Via Freshnessmag.com
Along with a series of limited edition models of the newly introduced Nike Air Max LeBron VII (7), Nike will also present LeBron James with several one-of-the-kind Air Max LeBron VII, each customized by a local artist from each stop of his 2009 World Tour (coincide with the premiere of More Than a Game documentary feature). The first being one designed by the Chicago-base artist Jeff Zimmerman.
Known for his Pop-Art murals, designs on everyday goods, and political figure portraits, Zimmerman integrate the contemporary art forms with design skills he acquired as a graphic designer. Thus making his works a rich mosaic of diversity while juxtaposed with abstract appearances, all elements visible in Zimmerman’s Air Max LeBron VII. To highlight LeBron’s work ethics and driven personality, Zimmerman added a worn-out Nike Swoosh onto the design. Vibrant colors splashed across the pair creates a sense of agility and speed, something LeBron excel both on and off the court. As representation of his hometown of Chicago, Zimmerman incorporated several Chicago signatures, including the city’s flag and a Chicago-style hot dog.
The second pair from the Artist Series will be presented tomorrow when the LeBron James 2009 World Tour visit Washington D.C.
